Colorado Avalanche hosts youth hockey event focused on mental skills and leadership
A special event for young hockey players took place in Colorado before the Avalanche's game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on March 16th. Colorado Hockey Night, supported by Toyota and the Hard Hat Heroes fund, focused on mental skills and character growth in youth hockey. The initiative brought together the Avalanche, nonprofit 1616, and the Colorado Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA) to help players develop beyond the ice. The event was organised by the Colorado Avalanche in partnership with 1616, a nonprofit founded by former NHL player Andrew Ladd and his wife Brandy. Their program aims to build connection, confidence, and character in young athletes. Over four seasons, thousands of teams across the US—including many in Colorado—have taken part in 1616's workshops.
During the evening, Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog joined a Q&A session. He spoke about leadership, staying positive, and the mental challenges of hockey. Meredith Wolff, Executive Director of the Ladd Foundation, also addressed the players, discussing resilience and focusing on what they can control in both sports and life. Taylor Patrick, the Avalanche's Event Manager for Youth Hockey Development, highlighted the importance of shaping players into strong teammates and leaders off the ice. Neesha Lenzini, Safesport Co-Director, added that 1616 helps create healthier hockey environments by prioritising mental and emotional growth alongside physical skills.
The event reinforced the value of mental training in youth hockey. Players left with insights on leadership, resilience, and teamwork from NHL professionals and program leaders. Colorado Hockey Night marked another step in growing the 1616 program's impact across the state.
