NHLPA Expands Mental Health Training to Minor League Players

Politics

1 year ago

News sources:

Credited from: APNEWS

The **NHL Players' Association** (NHLPA) is broadening its **mental health training program**, known as **First Line**, to players in the **American Hockey League (AHL)** and the **ECHL**.
This initiative will now be available to over **1,000 players** belonging to the **Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA)**.
NHLPA executive director **Marty Walsh** highlighted the significance of this program as a crucial step in addressing the unique **mental health** needs of professional athletes.
The First Line program is focused on **preventive measures** by equipping players to recognize mental health issues in themselves and others.
Since its launch in **January 2024**, over **85 NHLPA members** have participated, showcasing a positive shift in **mental health conversations** within the sport.