Sophie’s Squad, Minnesota Team Up to Promote Frost Mental Health Awareness Day

Sophie’s Squad recently joined forces with the Minnesota Frost to promote mental health awareness. The event took place during the Frost’s April 4th matchup with the Vancouver Goldeneyes.

Minnesota is in the home stretch of its third season, with the team recently clinching an appearance in the Walter Cup Playoffs. With The Frost flying high, it was the perfect opportunity for Sophie’s Squad to join an enthusiastic crowd of over 8300 fans at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul.

The Frost’s collaboration with Sophie’s Squad was the latest in a multi-year partnership. That union has seen the organization be a visible advocate for mental health awareness in the community. Sophie’s Squad marketing coordinator, Ryan Bahl, spoke during the game about the importance of partnerships like the one with Frost for the organization.

“The Minnesota Frost are elite athletes and two-time champions. Many people, of all ages and backgrounds, see them as an inspiration. It’s so important to know that they support this cause,” Bahl said. “An organization like the Frost being such a good partner allows us to reach their fan base and get out our crucial resources and message.”

Saturday’s matchup was also an exciting time for Sophie’s Squad and Frost fans to see some of the organization’s ambassadors take the ice for a key PWHL matchup. Minnesota goaltender Marlène Boissonnault and forward Claire Butorac represent the organization as ambassadors, while Izzy Daniel of the Vancouver Goldeneyes is also part of the program.

One of the most inspiring moments of the night came in the third period. During a stoppage in play, fans held up signs in support of people who may be struggling with mental health. The signs are a Sophie’s Squad initiative at games to showcase just how many people are affected.

Bahl reflected on that moment after the game.

“It’s sad to see how many people have to go through tough times mentally. At the same time, it’s very inspiring to see how much support they can receive,” Bahl said. “We want people to know they aren’t alone. One way to do that is to be open about your own and your loved one’s struggles with mental health.”

While there were several opportunities for fans to interact with Sophie’s Squad during the game, the players also did their part in getting the message out. Athletes donned Sophie’s Squad gear on their walk to the locker room to show their support.

(Walkout photos go here)

Along with showing off their Sophie’s Squad gear, players also spoke about the importance of the event. Frost defender Lee Stecklein emphasized the importance of holding a mental health awareness day in the post-game press conference.

“We are all really excited for this day. Mental health is a super important part of everyone’s life,” Stecklein said. “Especially as elite athletes, we’re generally under a lot of stress. Making sure that everyone knows it ok to not be ok.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Cb-429uaD8

For Sophie’s Squad, events like Saturday’s game are about reminding people that support exists both inside and outside the arena. Through partnerships with organizations like the Minnesota Frost, the organization hopes to continue spreading its message that no one has to face mental health struggles alone.