Connor Ingram, the NHL goaltender who bravely shared his battle with an undiagnosed obsessive-compulsive disorder, leading him to turn to alcohol to cope with anxiety, has been honored with the prestigious Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy. This award recognizes his remarkable perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to the sport of hockey.
Ingram's journey took a positive turn as he emerged as a full-time player for the Arizona Coyotes this past season. This success comes after seeking and receiving assistance from the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, a joint initiative by the league and union that has garnered attention for its support of players facing various challenges.
Reflecting on his recognition, Ingram humbly stated, 'You don’t do these things for awards. I did this to get my life back together. The fact that you get recognized for it is something that a lot of people who put their life back together don’t get.'
The Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy finalists included Oliver Kylington of the Calgary Flames, who took a hiatus for mental health reasons, and Frederik Andersen of the Carolina Hurricanes, who battled blood clotting issues. The award is determined by members of the Professional Hockey Writers' Association.
Ingram's journey saw him on Nashville's practice squad before entering the player assistance program during the pandemic-delayed 2021 season. After a brief stint with the Chicago Wolves in the AHL, he made a pivotal decision to relocate and rebuild his life in Nashville, where he found love and stability.
Following his NHL debut in October 2021, Ingram has since made significant contributions to the Arizona Coyotes, playing 74 games and forming a strong bond with teammate Karel Vejmelka. Looking ahead, the 27-year-old goaltender, now with the Utah franchise, remains optimistic about his future in hockey.
Utah general manager Bill Armstrong praised Ingram's resilience, stating, 'Connor’s journey through adversity and his unwavering commitment to the game of hockey truly embodies the essence of the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy.'
Armstrong added, 'Since his return, Connor has not only excelled on the ice but has emerged as an inspiration to hockey players across the globe as he continues to tell his story and emphasize the importance of seeking support during life’s darkest moments.'
Connor Ingram's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of seeking help when facing challenges, resonating with athletes and fans alike.
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