An annual hockey showcase created to promote mental health awareness is stepping onto a bigger stage this year. The Shoulder Check Showcase will be broadcast on NHL Network from Martire Family Arena at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, marking a major move from its early years at Terry Conners Ice Rink in nearby Stamford.
The event was launched in memory of Hayden Thorsen, a beloved teammate known for checking in on others with a tap on the shoulder. After his death by suicide on May 21, 2022, his family and friends established the HT40 Foundation to honor his life and encourage small acts of kindness and support within the community. The showcase has since become the foundation’s signature fundraiser and a central way to spread its message.
Exciting Participation and Community Support
Organizers said this year’s edition will feature more than 20 NHL players and will begin at 6 p.m. ET. Among those expected to participate are Trevor Zegras, Chris Kreider, Adam Fox, Brett Pesce, Spencer Knight, and Shayne Gostisbehere. Zegras and Kreider have been involved since the inaugural game, and Knight, who played with Hayden at the U-14 level, has been part of the effort from the start.
Those close to the event describe rapid growth from a local gathering to a widely supported showcase drawing interest across the United States, Canada, and beyond. They say the hockey community has rallied around the cause, helping spread the simple idea behind “shoulder check”: regularly checking in on friends and family because people’s struggles are not always visible.
The program will include the exhibition game, opportunities for players to meet fans, and additional activities. Gary Zegras, who helped organize in the wake of the tragedy and serves on the foundation’s board, has emphasized that the initiative aims to reflect how Hayden lived—by looking out for others and encouraging a culture of compassion.
This year’s event promises to be more than just a hockey game; it will serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and community support. As the Shoulder Check Showcase continues to grow, it highlights the impact of sport in fostering connections and understanding among individuals.