Changing the Game: Gabbie Hughes on Supporting Mental Health in Hockey
Ottawa Charge forward is ready to have the important conversations about mental health.
Gabbie Hughes, forward for the Ottawa Charge, is making an impact beyond her impressive skills on the ice. As a co-founder of Sophie’s Squad, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health awareness, Hughes has become a champion for open conversations about mental wellness in the hockey community.
Sophie’s Squad was founded in response to a tragedy close to Hughes’ heart. After losing Sophie Wieland, a young hockey player, to suicide, Hughes and those closest to Sophie wanted to ensure her memory would drive positive change. “I was one of the co-founders… We sat down and talked about ways we could support Sophie’s family and make sure no other family would have to experience this,” Hughes shared. “So, for the first game of the hockey season, we organized an event focused on mental health awareness, thinking we’d leave it at that.”
But what started as a single event evolved into a movement that touches hockey players, fans, and families across communities. Sophie’s Squad hosts games and events across Minnesota, using hockey as a platform to break down stigmas and raise awareness. Hughes understands the pressures athletes face all too well. She experienced her own mental health challenges as a freshman in college, recalling a time when she thought, “not quite wanting to take my life, but… not being here anymore was very prevalent.”
With support from her teammates and coaches, she learned that real strength comes from seeking help and breaking through the 'toughness' myth often associated with sports. Her experience solidified her commitment to mental health advocacy and dedication to Sophie’s Squad’s mission.
Today, Hughes continues to grow her role within the organization, leading Sophie’s Squad’s new ambassador program to spread its message across college campuses. “I was originally… the first ambassador, you could say,” Hughes explained. “Now, I’ll get an official spot on the board as the leader of the ambassador program.” Hughes aims to connect with young athletes and teams through the program, helping them find support for mental health challenges. Recently, Sophie’s Squad donated $50,000 to the Children’s Hospital in St. Paul, MN, marking a milestone in the nonprofit’s reach.
Looking Ahead at the Upcoming Season
After months of training, Hughes is thrilled to step back on the ice and connect with the crowd that makes playing in Ottawa so meaningful. “We in Ottawa have the best fans in the league,” Hughes remarked, recalling moments when fans stayed to cheer the team on even after a tough loss. “Their unconditional support for us is super, super amazing and really drives us to give them a good show.”
Entering her second year, Hughes is ready to embrace her role as a more seasoned player on the team. “Last year was about enjoying the ride but this year, I’m really excited to shift to more confidence and believing in my game,” she shared. With specific goals to improve her assists, scoring, and defensive skills, Hughes is focused on bringing a new level of performance to the Charge. She’s also excited about the team’s new look, eagerly awaiting the reveal of their jerseys, which has been a highlight of the preseason buzz among fans and players alike.
Balancing her advocacy and athletic career, Hughes remains steadfast in her commitment to supporting mental health in hockey. Her message to young athletes is simple: “Find someone to talk to. It’s the hardest step, but it’s also the most important,” she emphasized. Hughes hopes that Sophie’s Squad and her own story will inspire others to embrace vulnerability and seek the help they need. “I think it’s okay to… feel the feelings you’re feeling. It’s normal. You’re going to be okay,” she said.
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that help is available. Reaching out can be a crucial first step. Here are some resources:
In Canada:
- Crisis Services Canada: Call 1-833-456-4566 (24/7) or text 45645 (4 pm – midnight ET).
- Kids Help Phone: Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868, available 24/7 for youth support.
- Hope for Wellness Helpline (Indigenous support): Call 1-855-242-3310 or chat online at hopeforwellness.ca.
In the U.S.:
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 988 for 24/7 confidential support.
For more information on supporting mental health in hockey, visit Sophie’s Squad.
Comments ()