Annual Shoulder Check Showcase
In Stamford, Connecticut, the annual Shoulder Check Showcase charity hockey game has transformed into a notable summer event, where NHL players converge to support mental health awareness. This initiative was conceptualized following a personal tragedy faced by Rob Thorsen, whose son, Hayden, tragically died by suicide at the age of 16 in May 2022. To honor Hayden, Thorsen and his wife, Sarah Thompson, established the #HT40 Foundation and initiated the Shoulder Check project, which aims to promote mental health awareness and encourage community connections.
Player Participation and Event Growth
Last summer, Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger made a personal commitment to participate in the event after meeting Thorsen during his offseason training in the area. Although he missed the previous year’s game, he is slated to play this Thursday, joining an impressive roster that includes NHL stars such as Chris Kreider, Trevor Zegras, Adam Fox, Matty Beniers, and Shayne Gostisbehere, among others. The third iteration of this showcase will feature 25 active NHL players, along with notable figures from the hockey world, including NHL prospect Drew Fortescue and veteran Kevin Shattenkirk.
The Shoulder Check Showcase has quickly gained recognition, paralleling other prestigious offseason tournaments like Minnesota’s Da Beauty League and Moscow’s Match of the Year. This summer’s event promises excitement not only from the players but also with distinguished coaching figures such as Rangers goalie Jonathan Quick and Hall of Famer Martin St. Louis. In an ongoing effort to raise awareness, there’s been a clear commitment from the players, with many expressing their eagerness to contribute to the cause.
“It’s a can’t-miss event on our summer schedules,” remarked Pavel Dorofeyev, an NHL forward, emphasizing the draw of this gathering.
Community Impact and Future Aspirations
The significance of this charitable endeavor is not just rooted in hockey; it also resonates with broader social issues within the community. Kreider, who previously lived in Connecticut, remarked on the vital importance of the event and the community’s response to such a bereavement. As the event has evolved, it’s evident that the size and stature of the Showcase have increased, with more than 20 NHL players expected to attend for the first time.
Thorsen credits the growing support from NHL players and their involvement in drafting teams as a key factor in the event’s success. Players like Zegras have not only participated but actively recruited teammates, enhancing the player lineup dramatically. In addition, they’ve made changes to ensure that the event is as appealing as possible, even upgrading merchandise at the suggestion of players like Frank Vatrano.
As the excitement builds for the game, pre-game festivities will include a poignant moment where all attendees will be asked to place a hand on a shoulder and make a communal pledge: “I promise to reach out, check in, and make contact.” Thorsen envisions expanding the Shoulder Check initiative, with hopes of future collaborations with NHL teams to raise awareness of mental health. Ultimately, the ambition is for the event to keep growing, reminding hockey fans of the importance of community and connection in both sports and everyday life.
As Shayne Gostisbehere aptly put it, the cause transcends hockey, urging everyone to check in on one another and fostering a culture where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized.
The Foundation’s message is clear: while professional athletes help amplify the cause, it’s the collective effort to connect that truly makes a difference.
