The North Bay Battalion are partnering with Canadian Mental Health Association, North Bay and District, for a mental health awareness game on Thursday, Feb. 8 at 7 p.m. when the Troops take on the Niagara IceDogs at Memorial Gardens.
The game day experience will have several features to promote the importance of mental health, including:
- A CMHA-run kiosk on the concourse where fans can learn more about mental health and the organization’s community-based services. (With each table visit, fans can also fill out a ballot for their chance to win one of two prize packages featuring autographed Battalion merch, a gift certificate, and tickets to a future game. Free to enter!);
- A ceremonial puck drop and photo opportunity with CMHA North Bay and District;
- Videos featuring Battalion players talking about the importance of mental health; and
- Public service announcements about mental health and CMHA North Bay and District;
This game is part of the Battalion’s ongoing partnership with CMHA North Bay and District through the provincial Talk Today program. The team is also linked to a CMHA mental health coach, who educates players about mental health and suicide prevention and provides support and resources.
Launched by CMHA Ontario and the Ontario Hockey League, Talk Today is marking its 10th season. To date, more than 1,850 OHL players and nearly 600 coaches, billets and staff have received mental health and suicide prevention training across the league.
Syngenta and Grain Farmers of Ontario are presenters of this year’s game.
“The North Bay Battalion are very pleased to partner with the Canadian Mental Health Association to support our players along with others in North Bay and the surrounding community,” said John McLellan, Sr. Manager of Marketing and Business Development for the North Bay Battalion Hockey Club. “Through valued sponsors like Syngenta and Grain Farmers of Ontario, the game night on Thursday will be a great way to educate our fans on the importance of talking and getting support for your mental health if need be.”
“CMHA North Bay and District is proud to team up with the Battalion to offer education, training and ongoing support to players all season long,” said Mary Davis, CEO of CMHA North Bay and District.
“Game night is our chance to show the community and fans that we’re here for them, too. It is through events like this that we can help reduce stigma, increase public awareness, and encourage people to seek help when they need it.”
Tickets can be purchased online through tickets.battalionhockey.com or at the Memorial Gardens box office.
About Canadian Mental Health Association, North Bay and District:
Canadian Mental Health Association, North Bay and District is a not-for-profit, charitable organization. With two dozen specialized programs, we are this area’s leading provider of community-based mental health and addiction care. We work to promote wellness and empower individuals to achieve their full potential by providing collaborative supports and advocacy. Our vision is to improve lives through leadership, collaboration, creativity, and the constant pursuit of evidence-based practices in community-based mental health, addiction, housing and peer support.
About the North Bay Battalion Hockey Club:
The North Bay Battalion are a member of the Ontario Hockey League. They are celebrating their 10th anniversary in the Gateway City and play out of Memorial Gardens.
Media contacts:
Carla Ammerata John McLellan
Director of Communications Sr. Manager, Marketing and Business Development
CMHA North Bay and District North Bay Battalion Hockey Club
249-591-1775 705-495-8603 ext. 2708
cammerata@nbd.cmha.ca jmclellan@battalionhockey.com