Open Ice: NHL Mental Health Charity Panel
This event came to be through the hockey community that has connected us 5 as parents, coaches, and friends. From coaching together to cheering on our kids at the rink, I have had the privilege of knowing these players not only for their accomplishments on the ice, but as people and friends off the ice. I know their stories, and I believe they deserve to be shared—stories of resilience, struggle, and hope that can encourage and inspire our entire community. We’d love for you to join us!
Recap of the Event!
An evening of real stories, resilience, and community, designed for hockey families and teams in Kelowna.
Meet Your NHL Panelists!
Meet Your Panelists!
Meet Your Host: Barb Egan
Why This Night Matters
Behind every jersey is a human story. Open Ice is where those stories are shared. We train for strength and skill, and we also need to train and care for our minds. In hockey, and in life, you cannot play your best unless you feel your best.
Open Ice invites our community to listen, learn, and ask questions as NHL players speak candidly about performance, pressure, identity, injury, self-doubt, and the mindset tools that helped them grow on and off the ice.
Event Snapshot
- VIP Meet and Greet, OKGN Lifestyle Apparel, 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Main Panel, Mary Irwin Theatre, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Panelists, Wade Redden, Mike Smith, Andrew Ladd, Jordin Tootoo
- Host, Barb Egan, former elite athlete, coach, owner of Alive Counselling, therapist specializing in athlete mental health and performance
Event partners include Third Space Charity and OKGN Lifestyle.
Every ticket goes right back into our community, where Barb is one of the clinical supervisors of graduate students who help provide affordable counselling for young adults in our community.
What to Expect
Big Moments, Bigger Lessons
Hear what it was like to play on the biggest stages, from the NHL to international competition, and what it took to get there.
The Other Side of the Jersey
Honest conversations about injury, pressure, self-doubt, identity, and anxiety, paired with practical strategies that helped players persevere.
Real Resilience
How elite athletes build mental strength and care for their well-being, lessons you can apply in sport, at school, at work, and at home.
Connection and Community
Expect an engaging format with live Q and A, audience interaction, and space for reflection about how we support our kids and each other.
VIP Meet and Greet, OKGN Lifestyle Apparel, 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Face time with NHL players in a small group setting
- Autographs, complimentary food and beverages, swag bags
- Exclusive OKGN apparel discounts
- Reserved, priority seating at the panel
Main Panel, Mary Irwin Theatre, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Ninety minute panel and live Q and A
- Interactive audience engagement
- Community atmosphere with photo wall, message board, and prizing
Who This Is For
Bring your kids, bring your team, and bring your questions. Whether you are nine, nineteen, or fifty-nine, this night is for everyone. It is inspiring and real, and a meaningful way to begin the season with purpose, resilience, and community.
About the Host
Barb Egan, RCC, ACS is a former elite athlete and coach, and the owner of Alive Counselling in Kelowna. Barb specializes in athlete mental health and performance and serves as a clinical supervisor for graduate student counsellors offering affordable counselling in our community.
Tickets and Details
Seating is limited, our last event sold out!! Secure VIP tickets for the OKGN shop experience, and panel tickets for the Mary Irwin Theatre discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this appropriate for kids and teens?
Yes! We are all friends because of our kids’ hockey teams and coaching together! Content focuses on real experiences of resilience, mindset, and mental health, shared in a supportive and respectful environment.
Can teams attend together?
Yes. We encourage coaches, parents, and players to attend together. Please arrive early for group seating.
Will there be opportunities to ask questions?
Yes. There will be live Q and A and interactive elements during the panel.
Where do proceeds go?
Every ticket helps fund Third Space Charity’s affordable counselling for young adults in our community.
Location and Schedule
- VIP, OKGN Lifestyle Apparel, 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Panel, Mary Irwin Theatre, 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Questions?
Contact Alive Counselling at [email protected]
Want to connect with Barb to speak at your event or to work with your team or athlete?