A busy summer has finally settled down for Saskatoon resident, and Kindersley native D Jay McGrath following the 2025 Mental Health Classic 3v3 hockey tournament in Saskatoon.
McGrath started the tournament a few years back in his hometown of Kindersley with tons of help behind him. The former Jr. Klippers captain has made a name for himself thanks to his journey with mental health, and is so happy to see where it has taken him.
"I think it's more of a dream come true kind of thing for me," said McGrath.
McGrath has put tons of work into his brand over the past few years, but even he couldn't have predicted what it turned into.
"Started three years ago right in Kindersley, the hometown there, and honestly it was just an idea for kids to have some fun playing hockey. Thought there would be 30 kids showing up, and fast forward to just this past weekend and we had over 200 kids."
The successful venture has opened up the opportunity for the Mental Health Classic to become a foundation, that will aim to help provide monetary support for hockey families who struggle to afford the sport.
"It's a dream come true. It's one of those things where you put your mind to something, (have) passion for it, and stuff starts to come alive so I am super grateful."
There was sure to be some returning players with participation numbers passing triple digits.
"I do have a couple families. One all the way from Bawlf, Alberta, that has been to every tournament," chuckled McGrath, as the inaugural Classic in 2023 was played in Kindersley, before expanding to Saskatoon in 2024 for two different tournaments.
Only one tournament was on the books for 2025 as McGrath and his helpers poured all their effort into the city edition.
"It was unfortunate I couldn't make it to Kindersley this year, but we had some (local) folks head up to Saskatoon this tournament."
He appreciates everyone who made the trip in, McGrath referencing a few families that have turned the summer tournament into their yearly vacation.
"It's such a good feeling, for sure."
McGrath might be the brains behind the tournament, but he's nowhere near the most important part.
That title would go to the sponsors and speakers that make the event possible, turning it to much more than just a weekend of shinny.
"If these people didn't commit, believing in what I am doing, none of this would be possible," said McGrath, as 24 people worked alongside him whether they were volunteers, guest coaches, or mental health speakers.
One of those guest speakers on the mental health side was Colton Stephenson, brother of Seattle Kraken forward and Stanley Cup champion Chandler Stephenson, as McGrath was happy to share both brothers made an appearance at the event.
"One of my best friends. (Colton) is my workout coach here in the city, and Chandler went there to support. That's what it's all about."
McGrath could have got the two-time Stanley Cup champ to show off his rings, but using his brother to help spread the good word of mental health accomplished just as much.
"I bring in mental health speakers who have lived the experience, who these kids can relate with.
"I could bring in NHLers to speak and share stories or what not, but I want athletes; former athletes, current athletes coming in there...someone that has walked in their shoes."
Stephenson's jersey wasn't the only NHL player donated item, McGrath also mentioning that he connected with Stephenson's Kraken teammate, and fellow Sask. native Jaden Schwartz who donated hockey tickets to the silent auction too.
From his perspective, it has been amazing to see the message of "it's ok to not be ok" resonate support from so many people.
"Mental health is slowly becoming a thing, and people want to help. This tournament would not be the Mental Health Classic without sponsorship, volunteers, without people believing in myself," said McGrath. "It's all community driven, and we raised quite a good amount of money this year."
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With the summer tournament now in the books, McGrath can now shift his focus to what will be a busy hockey season.
McGrath will be continuing his work as a mental health ambassador for numerous teams and leagues around the province, the work in the rink keeping him busy along with picking up different speaking engagements.
"That's something I have a passion for, is sharing my story to schools, communities, organizations, hockey teams," said McGrath, before teasing a return to his roots.
"Local guy (in Kindersley) named Ethan Wigley that I am going to be helping out his team this year. I will be making my way to Kindersley a couple times."
McGrath has made it his duty to show kids that it's ok to not be ok, and that vulnerability is the new toughness; something he has experience with on his own personal road to recovery.
"Wherever I need to be, and whenever kids, athletes — anyone — needs help or has questions, I am there."
"My passion is what keeps me sober, doing what I am doing. I am super thankful for the spot I get to be in."
The tournament helped McGrath and his crew conquer their goal to 'ICE THE STIGMA'.
Anyone interesting in being part of next year's event, set to be bigger and better according to McGrath, can mark their calendars for August 8-9, 2026 and keep an eye out for early registration.