Connor Ingram, the goaltender for the Utah Hockey Club, has entered the NHL and NHLPA’s Player Assistance Program, as announced on March 9, 2025. The decision came after the young athlete revealed he has been struggling with his mental health since the passing of his mother, who succumbed to breast cancer earlier this season. This program, which offers support for various issues including mental health, substance abuse, and more, will see him out of Utah’s lineup indefinitely.
“At this point in my life, I need to put my health first and take the proper time I need away to come back at 100%,” said the 27-year-old goaltender on social media. He emphasized the importance of accessing the program’s resources as he navigates this challenging period.
This isn’t the first time the player has sought support; during the 2020-21 season, he took time off to deal with undiagnosed obsessive-compulsive disorder, which affected his ability to cope with anxiety and led him to substance misuse. His previous encounter with the program allowed him to overcome personal challenges and return stronger, culminating last season when he was awarded the prestigious Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for his perseverance and dedication to the sport.
Now, he finds himself needing to step back once again. Earlier this season, after the death of his mother, he had taken a brief leave of absence. “Though many view the program as a resource for substance abuse, I want to recognize all they do,” he shared. “With the program's assistance, I look forward to getting the medical help I need and returning to a happy and healthy life.”
Before this recent announcement, Connor was performing solidly for the Utah Hockey Club, even serving as the pivotal backup to Karel Vejmelka this season. With 22 games under his belt, he boasted a .882 save percentage and a 3.27 goals-against average, contributing significantly as Utah navigates its inaugural season since relocating from Arizona.
Currently, the team finds itself just four points shy of the Calgary Flames for the final wildcard spot in the Western Conference, relying on players like Vejmelka and the newly recalled Jaxson Stauber to step up as they move forward.
“I just restarted,” said Connor, reflecting on his return to the ice after last season's challenges. His focus now is firmly on recovery.
Throughout the NHL, support mechanisms like the Player Assistance Program serve not only to help players with substance abuse issues but also address mental health challenges, which have increasingly come to the forefront of sports conversations. With the advent of increased awareness, mental health resources are becoming more accessible, ensuring players receive the necessary support.
Connor’s experience highlights the importance of prioritizing mental well-being. His previous battles have equipped him with insight on coping and recovery; now, he’s taking proactive steps by re-entering the program. Under the assurance of confidentiality, players feel more at ease seeking help when needed without fearing for their careers or public perception.
Currently, Connor is the second player this season to enter the program, following Detroit Red Wings goalie Jack Campbell, who also sought assistance earlier this season. By openly sharing his struggles and the steps he is taking to prioritize his health, Connor is helping to change the narrative around mental health within sports, encouraging others to seek support.
With renewed determination, Connor looks to return to the NHL not just as a player but as an individual who has faced down adversity and emerged with resilience. For now, the focus remains on his health, and the entire Utah team, along with the broader hockey community, supports him as he navigates this challenging yet necessary path.