The unexpected sight of Montreal Canadiens forward Patrik Laine modeling at Montreal Fashion Festival yesterday wasn’t just about style – it represented something far more significant for our city and the sports community at large.
Laine, the 27-year-old Finnish winger who joined the Habs last season, surprised attendees by walking the runway for local designer Marie-Claude Guay’s new collection “Beneath the Surface,” specifically created to support mental health initiatives across Quebec.
“Hockey players aren’t robots,” Laine told me backstage, adjusting the cuffs of his charcoal suit adorned with subtle blue stitching representing tears. “We struggle with the same things everyone else does, but there’s this pressure to always appear strong, unbreakable.”
His participation marks a significant shift in how professional athletes address mental health. The Montreal Canadiens organization has increasingly prioritized psychological well-being, establishing their “Mind Matters” program last year following defenseman Joel Edmundson’s candid discussion about his anxiety struggles.
Dr. Sophie Gravel, sports psychologist at McGill University, believes high-profile involvement like Laine’s creates critical visibility. “When someone with Laine’s platform steps forward, it normalizes these conversations, particularly for young men who statistically resist seeking help,” she explained during the event.
The fashion show raised over $175,000 for AMI-Québec, which provides support for those affected by mental illness. The organization has reported a 43% increase in service requests since the pandemic, reflecting our community’s ongoing mental health challenges.
I’ve covered Montreal fashion events for fifteen years, but yesterday’s show carried an emotional weight unlike others. Watching these athletes – traditionally celebrated for physical prowess – openly embrace vulnerability felt revolutionary in its simplicity.
Montreal designer Guay collaborated with mental health professionals to ensure the clothing incorporated therapeutic elements. “Each piece features hidden pockets for grounding objects, fabrics selected for sensory comfort, and construction that accommodates physical symptoms of anxiety,” she explained, showing me the thoughtful details.
Laine’s journey with mental health became public last year when he took a three-week absence for personal reasons. While he never explicitly labeled it as mental health-related, his return to the spotlight supporting this cause speaks volumes.
“Some days getting out of bed is harder than blocking a Shea Weber slapshot,” Laine said with his characteristic dry humor. “I just want kids in Montreal to know their heroes struggle too, and that’s completely normal.”
The event showcased twelve professional athletes alongside traditional models, each wearing designs that told their personal stories. Canadiens goaltender Samuel Montembeault wore a piece featuring architectural elements representing the protective walls athletes build around themselves.
Jean Tremblay from the Canadiens’ community relations department confirms this represents a new chapter for the organization. “The culture is changing. Ten years ago, this conversation wouldn’t have happened,” he said. “Now we’re actively encouraging players to share their experiences.”
During my years covering Montreal sports, I’ve witnessed the invisible toll the pressure takes on athletes – especially in a hockey-obsessed city where players can barely grocery shop without being recognized. The unforgiving spotlight can be particularly challenging for those already managing mental health concerns.
Dr. Robert Whitley from Douglas Mental Health University Institute notes significant progress but acknowledges persistent challenges. “Male athletes still face stigma when discussing emotional struggles,” he explained. “Events merging traditionally masculine spaces like sports with open conversations about mental health are powerful catalysts for change.”
The Fashion Festival continues through Sunday at Palais des congrès, with Laine scheduled to appear at tomorrow’s mental health panel alongside Olympic medalist and advocate Clara Hughes.
What made yesterday’s event particularly impactful was witnessing these athletes transform from sports figures to mental health ambassadors before our eyes. In a city where hockey players are treated like royalty, seeing them use that influence to normalize struggle feels like an important cultural shift.
As I watched Laine confidently walk that runway, I couldn’t help thinking about all the young Montrealers watching their hero redefine strength. Sometimes the most important goals aren’t scored on ice but in challenging the narratives that prevent people from seeking help when they need it most.
If you or someone you know needs support, AMI-Québec’s helpline is available at 514-486-1448 or visit amiquebec.org.
