Avalanche's Samuel Girard Enters Player Assistance Program
PUBLICATION
TJ Tucker
November 24, 2023 (6:55 PM)
Many have wondered what's going on over the past few days after Samuel Girard's mysterious disappearance from the lineup of the Colorado Avalanche. We now have more information.
Girard has entered the NHL/NHLPA's Player Assistance Program.
"The National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players' Association announced today that Samuel Girard of the Colorado Avalanche will be unavailable to his Club for an indefinite period while he receives care from the Player Assistance Program of the NHLPA and NHL.
Under the terms of the joint program, Girard will continue to be paid while receiving treatment. He will return to the Club when cleared for on-ice competition by the program administrators."
Girard himself has since released a statement saying he turned to alcohol to treat anxiety and depression, and he now realizes he needs help.
"I have made a proactive decision to take care of my mental health, and will be entering treatment for severe anxiety and depression that has gone untreated for too long and led to alcohol abuse. Taking care of your mental health is of the utmost importance, and encourage everyone to speak up and seek help should you feel like you need it. I want to express my gratitude to my wife, family, friends, the cub, my teammates, and the fans for their patience, understanding, and continued support."
There's never any shame in seeking help when you need it. All the best to Girard and his family as he takes this step.
POLL |
Have you ever had to seek help for an issue? |
Yes | 43 | 43 % |
no, but I should | 24 | 24 % |
No, haven't had to | 33 | 33 % |
List of polls |
|
57 minutes ago | By TJ Tucker Heartbreaking Scene as 16 Year Old American Hockey Player Tragically Passes Away in Freak Accident |
|
2 hours ago | By River Hawk Former NHL Goalie Turned Business Mogul, Builds Massive Empire and Buys $560M Super Yacht |
|
3 hours ago | By TJ Tucker Detroit Red Wings Release Horrible Update for Star Winger Patrick Kane |
|
17 hours ago | By Graham Montgomery NHL Analyst Blasts the New York Rangers for Consistently Mishandling Matt Rempe This Season |
|
19 hours ago | By Julien Trekker Department of Player Safety Appears to Have Made an Official Decision on Arber Xhekaj's Punch on NHL Official |
|
21 hours ago | By Tom Banks Winnipeg Jets Top Prospect Shockingly Traded in Blockbuster Deal |
|
22 hours ago | By Tom Banks Vegas Golden Knights Place 22 Year Old Second Round Pick on Waivers |
|
Dec 2 | By Daniel Lucente Edmonton Oilers Player Receives A Fine For Diving For The Second Time This Season |
Previously on Bladeofsteel