Wild to host Hockey Talks, highlighting mental health

The Minnesota Wild will host a new program to encourage conversations about mental health.

Monday, the Wild announced it was one of 17 NHL teams sharing support and information in an effort to eliminate misconceptions and stigma associated with mental illness.

The team will also host its first-ever Hockey Talks program on March 24. A special Hockey Talks ticket package includes admission to the pregame seminar at St. Paul RiverCentre from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. before the March 24 game vs. Vancouver. The seminar will feature guest speakers Clint and Joanie Malarchuk and Chris Hawkey, and the proceeds will benefit The Ranch Teammates for Life.

The Ranch is located in Sauk Centre and works to serve and support those with mental illness; it was the vision of Mark Pavelich, Barry Beck and Mark’s sister, Jean.

More information is available online.