Canucks’ ‘Hockey Talks’ Initiative Continues to Make Mental Health a Team Effort
More than a decade since it began, the Vancouver Canucks’ Hockey Talks initiative is still doing what it set out to do-turning tragedy into meaningful change, one conversation at a time.
On Monday, Rogers Arena welcomed around 40 young players and coaches from the U15 North Vancouver Minor Hockey Association and the Burnaby Female Ice Hockey Association for a day that went far beyond the scoreboard. In partnership with lululemon, the Canucks hosted a mental health awareness event designed to give the next generation of hockey players the tools-and the confidence-to talk about what’s going on off the ice.
This marks the 14th year of Hockey Talks, a campaign that was born in 2012 following the passing of former Canucks forward Rick Rypien. His story has become a cornerstone of the organization’s commitment to mental health, and his legacy continues through events like this-ones that prioritize education, support, and open dialogue for youth and families.
Rick’s brother, Wes Rypien, was on hand and spoke about how vital it is for NHL teams to use their platforms to push the conversation forward.
“Having NHL teams like the Canucks step forward and continue to do this year after year is super important,” Wes said. “This platform can reach so many different people-fans of the Canucks, their families and friends. Seeing that trickle down through minor hockey, into Junior, and eventually grassroots levels-it’s huge.”
The event wasn’t just about awareness; it was about action. The day focused on three key pillars: how to be a good teammate, how to communicate effectively, and understanding the line between mental toughness and mental health struggles. That’s a nuanced conversation, especially for young athletes navigating the pressures of competition, school, and growing up.
Wes emphasized that teammates have a role to play, too.
“As they’re getting older, it’s important for kids to realize that if someone’s going through something, it’s just as important for teammates to be there as it is for parents and coaches,” he said.
Attendees heard from mental health organizations like 1616 and Foundry BC, who broke down complex topics into relatable, actionable advice. The kids then jumped into a team-based game, led by lululemon, that tested what they’d learned in a fun, interactive way. They also got a front-row seat at the Canucks’ morning skate and wrapped up the day with a panel featuring Canucks alumni Daniel and Henrik Sedin, Chris Higgins, and Wes Rypien.
For the players, hearing from former NHLers brought the message home.
Asher, a 14-year-old defenseman, walked away with a new mindset.
“This whole event was a really great way to open your perspective,” he said. “Even people like former or current NHL players go through the same stress issues you might. The way they tackle these problems at the professional level-it helps me personally by giving me ways I can work through these issues.”
Ben, 13, a winger, picked up on the importance of being proactive when it comes to supporting teammates.
“I learned to control the controllables,” he said. “And if you see a teammate that looks like he's down and needs some help, just help him out.”
Charlie, a 13-year-old center, said the event gave him new tools to prepare mentally for games and helped him think about how to make the locker room a more welcoming space.
“There were a few things I was expecting to hear, but also some things that were new-things I’d be willing to try to keep people involved and included,” he said.
For longtime teammates Chiara and Sabrina, both 13, the day was a reminder of why they play the game in the first place. It’s not just about goals and assists-it’s about connection.
“I’ve learned that the people I meet in hockey, like Sabrina, I really have to cherish those moments,” Chiara said. “I have to help my team out, be kind to them, not put so much pressure on them. Have fun most of all, and just be a good person.”
She also appreciated seeing the Canucks practice and realizing that even the pros keep it light and have fun.
Sabrina echoed that sentiment and said the day left her feeling grateful-and more equipped.
“I also learned today that not everyone gets to experience this-it’s like a once-in-a-lifetime thing,” she said. “You have friends and family that can help you with mental health, and there are people who care about you and want to make sure you’re okay.”
She added that joining a sport like hockey isn’t just about competition-it’s about community.
“I’ve made so many new friends this year on a new team, and we all want to make sure everyone feels included and welcomed.”
In a sport that often celebrates toughness, Hockey Talks is helping redefine what that really means. And if Monday’s event is any indication, the next generation of players is ready to bring that message to the locker room-and beyond.