'We're working to make kindness a contact sport.' Hockey Showcase honors memory of Darien skater

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Some of the biggest names in professional hockey are coming to Stamford later this month. The second annual Shoulder Check Showcase will honor the memory of Hayden Thorsen, a Darien hockey player who committed suicide in 2022. "One in three people are struggling," Hayden's father Rob says. "When he passed, a lot of people asked the question: 'Who's is going to do what Hayden did now that he's gone?' and this idea is the answer to that." The July 25 event will feature a celebrity game with NHL and PWHL stars taking part. "We've had people participate from Stamford all the way to Seattle," Thorsen says. "There's this notion out there in the world that says 'you are not alone' and what we're trying to do with our initiative is just complete that sentence by saying 'because I'm right there with you.'" The event will also celebrate youth hockey with dozen boys and girls teams squaring off at Terry Connors Rink. "The more people we can get involved reaching out, the more likely we are to create space that when someone needs a hand, they say you know what I do need a hand," Thorsen says. "And with each touch and each opportunity we have to share the message it just inspires two or three more people to think here's how this could come to my community." Organizers will distribute kits complete with jersey patches, bracelets and tips on how people can check in to support one another. For more information on how to get involved visit https://www.shouldercheck.org/ "