Number of Participants: 44
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $6,123
Event Type: Health & Safety
Activity: Boys Ice Hockey
School: New Prague High School
Date: February 5, 2026
Location:
New Prague High School
12th Street Northeast, New Prague
MN
About:
The New Prague High School Boys Hockey team used the power of the game to spark an important conversation that extended far beyond the rink.
On Thursday, the Trojans hosted their “Shut Out the Stigma” game—an awareness event focused on student-athlete mental health. Throughout the week, the program intentionally created space for open dialogue around mental wellness, reinforcing a simple but vital message for athletes and the broader community alike:
It’s OK to not be OK.
Mental health challenges are increasingly common among young people, including student-athletes who often face pressure to perform, compete, and lead both on and off the ice. By speaking openly and taking action, New Prague Boys Hockey helped break down stigma and encouraged athletes to look out for themselves and one another.
As part of the event, the team raised funds for Duck Cup Memorial, an organization dedicated to mental health awareness, education, and support. The partnership underscored how athletics can serve as a powerful platform for advocacy, compassion, and meaningful impact.
The initiative was led by all 34 members of the boys hockey team, with support from the New Prague girls hockey program as well. Earlier in the season, the girls hosted their own awareness event, and approximately 10 players assisted with the boys’ efforts—further demonstrating unity across programs in support of mental health.
Events like Shut Out the Stigma highlighted what leadership in education-based athletics looks like. By leveraging visibility, teamwork, and community spirit to champion an important cause, New Prague Boys Hockey showed that caring for mental health is just as important as any scoreboard result.
Community members came together to support the cause and stand alongside these student-athletes as they worked to shut out stigma and open the door to understanding, support, and hope.
