Tessa Bonhomme, former Olympic gold medalist and former member of the Toronto Furies, joins Kendra to discuss the evolution of women's hockey and the importance of mental health awareness in sports.

They delve into Tessa's personal journey through the highs and lows of her career, including her experiences with the PWHL and the significance of the "Do It For Daron" initiative. The conversation highlights the vibrant community surrounding women's hockey and the collective effort to uplift players and foster a supportive environment. Tessa reflects on the lessons learned from her aunt's struggles with mental health and the impact of those experiences on her life and career. With a focus on joy and connection in sports, Tessa emphasizes the need for athletes to support one another and combat stigma surrounding mental health challenges.

The conversation culminates in Tessa's current endeavors, where she combines her love for hockey with her passion for storytelling through media. Her work with the Jocks and Jills podcast serves as a platform to elevate women's voices in hockey, allowing for greater representation and understanding of the athletes' experiences. Tessa's enthusiasm for the PWHL shines through as she discusses the potential it holds for future generations of female hockey players.

Takeaways:

• Tessa Bonhomme emphasizes the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks in sports.
• The PWHL represents a new opportunity for women's hockey and deserves strong support from fans.
• Mental health discussions in sports help break taboos and create safer environments for athletes.
• Creating a fun and supportive team culture can enhance performance and player satisfaction.
• Tessa's journey from player to broadcaster illustrates the evolving landscape of women's hockey.
• The impact of personal experiences with mental health can inspire athletes to help others.

Check out Tessa on the Jock n' Jills Podcast and learn more at Do It For Daron.