As the Buffalo Sabres are competing for a playoff spot on the ice, the organization is helping fight a different battle off of it. Before they defeated the Philadelphia Flyers, the Sabres hosted a Mental Health Awareness Night for local students.
On Wednesday morning, around 300 students watched a morning skate and then took part in a panel discussion about the importance of mental health and what it means to the Sabres.
Former Sabre and mental health advocate Clint Malarchuk took part in the discussion. The event demonstrates the importance to the organization about such an critical issue.
The Sabres have hosted events before with Malarchuk, and players have taken part in speaking about the topic on various videos on NHL.com.
Buffalo Sabres have taken steps to help ensure their players' mental wellness during the long NHL season
Pressure of a long playoff drought can have an impact on players. But it seems the franchise has taken steps to address those types of concerns that may arise throughout a given season.
Sabres team sports psychologist, Amanda Edwards, works with the organization throughout the year and engages with players.
The team addressing such an important issue can mean a lot to young and older fans alike. In a time where there is much pressure on everyone, it can be a huge breakthrough to see a professional sports team prioritize mental health.
On a personal note, I served with the United States Air Force and did have mental health issues upon finishing my enlistment. On the last day I served, I did attempt to take my own life. I am still standing and knowing that a team I, and many other service members, adore means a lot.
Sometimes showing that they understand and go through the same things that everyone else can mean a lot to a fan that may be struggling while they watch the team. It can unite a fanbase, a city and a team together.
The Sabres are now in the mix and have all the momentum in the world to break through and secure a playoff spot. But, as they continue to work on the ice, showing the youth and the fanbase that they care about more than winning can go a long way.
It's the kind of moment that shows they are men and women who care about the community. And in turn the Western New York area will care about them and root them in more aspects than just hockey.