Shiftmakers Tour Aims to Transform Hockey Culture in 250 Canadian Teams in 2025–26

Brock McGillis, former professional hockey player and founder of the Shiftmakers Tour, challenges hockey culture through conversations on mental health and inclusion.

Players come together after a Shiftmakers session exploring mental health, inclusion, and team culture in hockey.

A team gathers in the locker room following a Shiftmakers discussion on empathy, accountability, and leadership in sport.

Brock McGillis pushes himself to reach 250 teams in 200 days, using hockey to challenge culture, stigma, and silence.

My hope is that every rink we visit becomes a place where athletes feel seen, supported, and safe to be themselves.”

— Brock McGillis

TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA, October 24, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The Shiftmakers Tour, founded by former professional hockey player Brock McGillis, will launch in October 2025, bringing conversations on culture, mental health, and leadership to more than 250 hockey teams

across Canada over 200 days. The nationwide initiative aims to transform locker room culture and promote a healthier, more inclusive future for the game.

What began as a “100 teams in 100 days” initiative has evolved into one of the most influential cultural movements in Canadian sport. To date, Shiftmakers has worked with more than 300 teams, from minor hockey to the NHL and the NHLPA, helping players and coaches rethink what leadership means and how to create environments that heal rather than harm.

Over the past year, more than 50 players have disclosed self-harm or suicidal thoughts during sessions. Many others have spoken about experiences with bullying, racism, or pressure to hide their struggles. The program connects players with mental health resources and gives teammates tools to respond with empathy, compassion, and accountability.

“Hockey should not cost young people their mental health,” said McGillis. “My hope is that every rink we visit becomes a place where athletes feel seen, supported, and safe to be themselves.”

As one of the first openly gay men to play professional hockey, McGillis focuses not on labels but on behaviour and accountability. Shiftmakers stands apart by prioritizing storytelling, vulnerability, and team-driven change. Each session invites players, coaches, and parents to talk openly about mental health, challenge harmful norms, and redefine leadership beyond performance. The program has been credited with changing team cultures, strengthening relationships, and, in many cases, saving lives.

To book a Shiftmakers Session or Community Talk, reach out to: info@brockmcgillis.com