Connor Ingram, a goaltender for the Utah Hockey Club, has decided to enter the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program once again as of Sunday. The decision follows the passing of his mother from breast cancer in early December, with Ingram openly acknowledging he has not been his usual self since the loss.
Ingram shared his thoughts via social media shortly after it was announced by the league and players’ union that he would step away from the team temporarily to focus on his wellbeing. “At this point in my life, I need to prioritize my health and take the necessary time to return fully recuperated,” he stated. Ingram also highlighted the broad support the program offers, saying, “While many associate the program primarily with substance abuse assistance, I want to shine a light on the comprehensive services they provide. I feel fortunate to have access to their network of exceptional health experts, as it helps prevent the long-term effects of neglecting one’s health. With the support of the program, I am optimistic about receiving the medical attention I need to regain a happy and healthy life.”
Approaching his 28th birthday on March 31, Ingram has a history with the program. In 2021, while affiliated with the Nashville Predators, he utilized the program’s resources after grappling with undiagnosed obsessive-compulsive disorder. He has been candid about resorting to alcohol to manage anxiety during that period. Post-recovery, Ingram garnered the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy last season, an acknowledgment of his perseverance and commitment to the sport, achieving full-time status in the NHL.
The player assistance program extends its services beyond substance abuse to address a range of issues including mental health, sleep disorders, and gambling addictions. It assures confidentiality for both players and their families, with public announcements made only when a player’s absence from team activities becomes necessary during the hockey season.
Ingram is the second player this season to participate in the program, after Detroit’s goalie Jack Campbell did so just before the season’s kickoff. Five players utilized the program last year, mirroring the total from the preceding three years combined. Earlier during the current season, Ingram took a temporary leave of absence mourning his mother’s passing. When he has played, he has maintained a record of 8-9-4, with a 3.27 goals-against average and an .882 save percentage for Utah, the team previously known as the Arizona Coyotes before its relocation to Salt Lake City.
