Former Flyers goalie spearheading a new initiative
As NHL players come and go throughout the league, it is commonly believed by fans that players, being paid millions of dollars, are set for life and do not need any assistance.
While that may be true for most stars, who have financial planners and lawyers to protect their assets and continue building their wealth while they play hockey, numerous players in the league earn no more than the league minimum and require help if their careers are cut short or if the NHL decides to move on from their services.
The program called the NHLPA UNLMT Program, was launched in June. Marty Walsh, the NHLPA executive director, shared his thoughts on this initiative, stating,
"With this initiative, we are focused on providing individualized support for each player so that they can excel both during their playing career and in the future."
Rob Zepp, the former Flyers goaltender who only played ten NHL games, has taken the lead in this new initiative to assist players who are no longer with the NHL by guiding them and helping them set goals to transition back to non-athlete life.
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He emphasized the benefits of not being solely defined as a hockey player, saying,
"The platform and opportunities that you have as a professional at the very pinnacle of your craft are profound, and engaging in those opportunities and building them out away from the rink can also have a positive impact on your primary profession�your performance and your playing days on the ice."
Zepp explained that during the assessment process, players have the opportunity to deeply examine who they are and what motivates them. He noted,
"The part that has really resonated with players is that the person guiding them through this process and discussing outcomes is a player who happened to play a few hundred games in the National Hockey League as a defenseman. That's a pretty unique and relatable experience for guys."
The initiative focuses on identifying players' interests and passions to find a great fit for them.
I believe this is a fantastic initiative for players, as many of them feel lost and forgotten and should not be left behind. I applaud the NHLPA and the league for recognizing this and striving to move the league forward.
I applaud the NHLPA and the league for recognizing this and striving to move the league forward.
| POLL | ||
19 JUILLET | 29 ANSWERS Former Flyers goalie spearheading a new initiative Do you feel the NHL and NHLPA are doing enough to help players transition after their careers are over? | ||
| Yes | 10 | 34.5 % |
| No | 19 | 65.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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