Talk Today 2026

Jan 12, 2026

NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Canadian Mental Health Association, Simcoe County Branch Partners with Barrie Colts for Mental Health Awareness Game

[Barrie, January 8, 2026] – The Canadian Mental Health Association, Simcoe County Branch (CMHA SCB) is proud to partner with the Barrie Colts for a special mental health awareness game on Thursday, February 19, 2026, when the Colts take on the Owen Sound Attack at Sadlon Arena, with the puck dropping at 7:00 p.m.

The game will feature several initiatives to promote mental health awareness and community support:

• A CMHA SCB kiosk on the concourse where fans can learn about mental health, addiction, and CMHA SCB’s programs
• A ceremonial puck drop
• Video messages from Barrie Colts players about the importance of mental health
• Public service announcements highlighting mental health and CMHA SCB
• A fundraising initiative featuring “mindful apparel”—clothing with positive mental health messaging available for fans to purchase, with proceeds supporting CMHA SCB

This event is part of the Barrie Colts’ ongoing partnership with CMHA SCB and the Talk Today program, which this season celebrates its 22nd year of supporting mental health in the Ontario Hockey League. Since its launch in 2004, Talk Today has trained more than 14,000 elite athletes in mental health and suicide awareness, helping create a culture of openness and support in hockey communities.

“Talk Today is about more than awareness—it equips players with the tools to recognize warning signs, understand mental health, and support themselves and their teammates. These conversations can’t stop at the rink—they need to continue out loud in homes, schools, and communities. Hockey is a team sport, and mental health is too: we all need to look out for each other,” said Liz Grummett, Manager of Fundraising, Communications and Community Engagement, CMHA SCB.

“The Barrie Colts players and staff are proud to work with CMHA SCB with the Talk Today Program which helps all of us in the organization gain a better understanding of mental health and equips us with the knowledge and support both at home and at the rink” said Rob Ferguson, Barrie Colts Team Services Manager.

Tickets for the game are available online or through the Barrie Colts box office. For more information about the Talk Today program, visit www.talktoday.ca.

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Media Contact:
Liz Grummett
Media Relations
Canadian Mental Health Association, Simcoe County Branch (CMHA SCB)
lgrummett@cmhastarttalking.ca