Tonight is hockey night at the Holly Community Centre as the Start Talking Cup returns to help raise awareness around the mental-health crisis.
The sixth annual Start Talking Cup kicks off Thursday evening from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Mapleton Avenue recreation centre in the city's south end.
The event combines hockey and mental-health awareness by having teams playing a regular-season game while also having Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) staff and volunteers on hand to discuss mental-health issues and hand out pamphlets with information.
Last year’s event raised approximately $15,000 and saw approximately 700 people attend the games.
Liz Grummett , CMHA's manager of resource development, says she's proud not only of the growth of the product on the ice, but also what the CMHA has done for the cause.
“The event has grown from having one game with the 'AAA' minor midgets to now including an Ontario Women’s Hockey League game featuring bantam 'AA' girls,” Grummett said.
“We continue to provide mental-health education to all players and parents of each team and this year we have provided education to over 100 players and parents," she said.
This year, the Barrie Sharks 'AA' team will take on the Toronto Leaside Wildcats, followed by the Barrie Colts 'AAA' minor-midget squad facing the North Central Predators.
The CMHA has teams with young players involved to highlight the mental health of young athletes, and to break the stigma surrounding mental-health issues.
Proceeds from the night will support the Start Talking campaign and the Canadian Mental Health Association of Simcoe County.
There will also be unique silent auction items, a 50/50 draw and OHL Barrie Colts mascot Charlie Horse will be there with lots of giveaways.
Tickets are $5 and will be available for purchase at the door and online.
The night will also include interactive booths, special VIP guests and more.
