Our Kids Play Hockey: The Shoulder Check Movement: Changing Mental Health In Youth Hockey With Rob Thorsen
Episode Description
What if the most important thing in youth hockey isnt winning but noticing when someone isnt okay?In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we sit down with Rob Thorsen, founder of the Shoulder Check Foundation and HT40 Foundation, to talk about how one simple idea checking in on each other can change lives.After the heartbreaking loss of his son Hayden, Rob turned pain into purpose, creating a movement thats transforming locker rooms, teams, and communities across hockey and beyond. From youth teams to NHL players, the message is spreading: you are not alone because Im right here beside you.This conversation goes far beyond hockey. Its about parenting, coaching, mental health, team culture, and the small actions that make a massive difference. In This Episode, We Cover:The story behind the Shoulder Check movement Why peer-to-peer support is the most powerful tool we haveHow youth sports culture impacts mental healthWhat parents should (and shouldnt) say after games Simple ways coaches can build empathy into team cultureWhy checking in can literally save livesHow teams across the country are bringing this to life Key Takeaway:You dont need to be an expert to make a difference.You just need to show up, ask, and care. Resources & How to Get Involved:Visit: shouldercheck.orgBring the program to your team, school, or communityStart with one simple action: reach out, check in, make contact If this episode resonated with you, share it with a coach, parent, or teammate. These conversations matter. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog:How the Shoulder Check Movement Is Changing Youth Hockey Culture#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #MentalHealthInSports #ShoulderCheck #HockeyParents #TeamCulture #BeKind #CheckInClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube
