The Alberta Junior Hockey League is taking a big step forward in the fight to end the stigma around mental health.

All 15 teams, including the Fort McMurray Oil Barons, will be partnering with their local Canadian Mental Health Association, taking part in their ‘Talk Today’ program.

This program provides all players and coaches suicide-prevention and mental health awareness training.

“We are committed to providing mental health resources to our athletes and to destigmatize the negative connotations associated with seeking help,” Ryan Bartoshyk, AJHL Commissioner.

Through the ‘Talk Today’ program, teams will take part in different events such as workshops and hosting a game-day event to raise awareness. More details will be released down the road as the AJHL continues to plan its 2020-21 season.

“Talk Today has already had great success in other junior hockey leagues across the country, and we look forward to equipping AJHL players with tools that support mental wellness,” added David Grauwiler, CMHA Alberta Division Executive Director.