The NHL and NHLPA have launched a program designed to help players plan their post-hockey careers long before they hang up their skates.
The Core Development Program will give players avenues to further their education, network and find out what jobs they may be suited for, such as finance and broadcasting. League and NHL Players Association officials say the program announced Thursday targets young players, not just those in the twilight of their careers.
"The sooner they can start focusing on the longer term, the better off they’ll generally be — as much in their careers as after their careers," deputy commissioner Bill Daly said by phone.
This new endeavour is independent of the NHL Alumni’s Break Away program that focuses on player transitions once they retire. Most professional leagues have a similar process, but the NHL and NHLPA believe their program for current players is unique.
The voluntary program was spawned from player feedback. Several retired players have said they wished something like this existed.
Former player Mathieu Schneider, now the NHLPA’s special assistant to the executive director, hopes the program benefits players on the ice, too.
"There have been studies done that show that players that are prepared for life after sports, after their careers, actually perform better during their careers," Schneider said. "Maybe it alleviates the anxiety or the some of the pressure that might come normally. I think generally guys just have that awareness that, yes, it is an important part of the development of pro athletes."
Some players have taken their own initiative in establishing non-hockey interests during their playing days, such as Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara getting his real estate license. Longtime forward Jeff Halpern, now an assistant coach for the American Hockey League’s Syracuse Crunch, said examples such as Chara are the best ways to sell this program to current players.
"I think it’s great because a lot of guys, I think, are just scared of what happens after they’re done playing," said Washington Capitals defenceman Nate Schmidt, who’s currently studying for his real estate exam. "Even for a guy that has a college degree, I’m kind of nervous for when that day might come."
