Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health in Professional Sports and Matt Kinch’s Journey

Feb 6, 2025

Professional athletes are often celebrated for their resilience and peak performance, but beneath the surface, many face immense mental and emotional challenges. The pressure to succeed, the weight of expectations, and the abrupt transition to life beyond sports can take a toll. For former professional hockey player Matt Kinch, leaving the game meant more than just a career shift, it was a journey of self-discovery that ultimately led him to become a strong advocate for mental health.

The Transition from Pro Hockey to Everyday Life

After playing professional hockey for 11 years, splitting his time between North America and European League, Matt made the transition back to Calgary. Like many retired athletes, the shift from a structured, high-intensity career to everyday life was a significant adjustment. He found his footing in the corporate world, working in oil and gas, but the transition wasn’t just about a career change — it was about finding a new identity beyond the game.

Recognizing the importance of physical and mental well-being, Matt and his wife Raeanne Kinch launched Sweat Lab, a boutique fitness facility that brings together multiple training disciplines under one roof.

The Hidden Mental Health Struggles in Professional Sports

Playing at a high level comes with immense pressure — from personal expectations to the demands of coaches, teammates, and fans. “You always feel the need to perform, to hold yourself accountable, and to maintain a high standard,” Matt shared.

While today’s sports culture is gradually evolving, during Matt’s career, hockey was especially tough on mental health. Many of his peers struggled with the brutal physicality of the game, leading to concussions and, in some cases, tragic outcomes. The loss of players to suicide underscored the need for stronger mental health support within the sports community.

“Nobody really prepares you for the transition out of professional sports,” Matt explained. “One day, you’re in the spotlight with all these resources and support systems. The next, you’re on your own.”

Matt’s personal experiences and the struggles he witnessed among fellow athletes inspired him to become a strong advocate for mental health. Over the years, he has remained a dedicated supporter of CMHA Calgary, recognizing the importance of accessible resources and community-based mental health programs.

Through Sweat Lab and his advocacy efforts, Matt emphasizes the importance of movement, community, and breaking down stigma. “Sometimes, just having a place to go — a supportive environment can make all the difference,” he said.

Red Carpet Gala and Supporting CMHA Calgary

What started as a simple idea, to bring the fitness community together in a new way, has grown into a meaningful annual tradition. The Red Carpet Gala hosted by Sweat Lab and Mercato West is an event that offers attendees the chance to dress up, connect, and support CMHA Calgary.

“It’s something different from what we do daily in the gym,” Matt shared. “Each year, we challenge ourselves to make it even better, and knowing that it directly supports mental health initiatives makes it all the more rewarding.”

CMHA Calgary is incredibly grateful for the unwavering support from Sweat Lab, Mercato West, sponsors and the event attendees. Their commitment helps ensure that mental health resources remain available to those who need them, reinforcing the message that help is always within reach.

Keeping the Conversation Going

Matt’s story serves as an important reminder, mental health struggles don’t end when the final buzzer sounds. For athletes and non-athletes alike, transitioning between life’s chapters can be challenging, but with the right support, no one has to face it alone.