Former NHLer to talk hockey, concussions, mental health, and life

A two-time Stanley Cup champion is launching a major speaking tour, with an extended visit to the Bay of Quinte area next month.

Daniel Carcillo, who was known as “Car Bomb” on the ice, has been one of the leading voices on mental health and concussions over the several of years. He is launching the “Uncharted” speaking tour, and he will be visiting the area between February 14th and 28th.

Carcillo recalls his first year in the Ontario Hockey League, a period that should have been once in a lifetime, but in fact was pure hell.

In his 11 years of pro hockey, he would win two Stanley Cups, lead the NHL in penalties twice, and play for five different teams. He also dealt with concussion and mental health issues.

After two surgeries, Carcillo began using hydrocodone to manage his pain, but it became an addiction. He says it was over-prescribed, and he was under educated. That combined with his abuse issues in the past, it became a problem.

He says since his hockey days, he has gotten help, and wants to help others. Carcillo adds that things have changed in hockey, and he wants to see that continue.

His “Uncharted” speaking tour (in partnership with Belleville’s Ducky Brand), will take him from Guelph to Ottawa talking to schools, first responders, hockey teams, and more. THE SPEAKING TOUR SCHEDULE IS BELOW

You can listen to his full interview with Quinte News below.

Carcillo will have the following speaking engagements in the Bay of Quinte area (some dates/times could be slightly changed)

February 14 @ 9:00 am – St. Paul Secondary

February 17 @ 6:15 am – Quinte Red Devils players, coaches, and volunteers

February 18 @ 9:30 am – St. Theresa Secondary

February 18 @ 12:50 pm – Nicholson Catholic College

February 20 @ 9:40 am – Centennial Secondary (for students/staff)

February 20 @ 7:00 pm – Centennial Secondary (talk open to the public $10/ticket – proceeds to Canadian Mental Health Association)

February 24 @ 6:30 pm – Belleville Police and local first responders

February 25 (time not known) – National Air Force Museum of Canada (for military members and staff)

February 28 @ 9:40 am – Centre Hastings Secondary in Madoc

FULL DETAILS ON THE TOUR BY CLICKING HERE