Former Rangers defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk has found purpose in retirement. He's taken on the role of advocate for mental health in lieu of playing the game of hockey, as the Shoulder Check Showcase, which takes place in Terry Conners Ice Rink in Connecticut, promotes youth mental health solutions.
Kevin Shattenkirk is working to build up the next superstars in the NHL through advocacy work. In Stamford, Connecticut, he'll be working in the Terry Conners Ice Rink for a youth mental health outreach program.
The "Shoulder Check Showcase" promotes a simple message:
«Reaching Out. Checking In. Making Contact.»
The advocacy is taking shape as the loss of Jimmy Hayes has influenced his latest move to be someone who is a positive influence on young hockey players' lives.
«The hat I'm wearing right now [is] for one of my good buddies, Jimmy Hayes. You know, this is something that hits home for me,» Shattenkirk told NHL Network. «Seeing the message that's behind it, and knowing you can make a difference with such a small act, it goes a long way.»
The showcase itself was borne of tragedy, a 16-year-old goalie, Hayden Thorsen, took his own life in 2022, and his parents, Sarah Thompson and Rob Thorsen, have taken it upon themselves to be a positive influence for their teammates and friends. Encouraging them to check in on each other and practice kindness.
Before the puck drops, players gather at center ice with one hand on the shoulder of the person next to them, taking the Shoulder Check pledge: «I promise to Reach Out, Check In, Make Contact.»
Rangers goalie Jonathan Quick has taken part in the "Shoulder Check Showcase" and has featured Chris Kreider, and now Kevin Shattenkirk.
The event starts with a raffle in the afternoon at 4 PM, while skills are showcased at 6 PM before puck drop at 6:30 PM.
Shattenkirk is here to build a resilient and resourceful community in the hockey world and has remained one of the event's supporters for the last three years.
«It can happen to any one of us,» he said, reflecting on how mental health challenges hit every corner of the sport. «We've seen that, especially over the last few years that the event's been going on.»
Thorsen and Thompson have accomplished a lot in a situation that would've kept many in the dark. Shattenkirk praised them for their efforts. Joining Shattenkirk will be Brett Berard, Adam Fox and Matt Rempe in 2025.
