First-Round Pick Stuns With Heartbreaking Tattoo
PUBLICATION
Dawson McKenzie
November 18, 2023 (9:17)
This first-round pick recently revealed a tattoo with a heartbreaking but important message.
London Knights' Oliver Bonk's Tattoo Becomes Visible During Interview
Oliver Bonk was drafted in the first round, 22nd overall by the Philidelphia Flyers this year. He is currently playing out his final year of junior hockey with the London Knights. During an interview, a small semi-colon tattoo was made visible on his wrist.
trying not to cry too hard over bonk's tattoo
While the tattoo may seem insignificant for some, the semi-colon tattoo is a common symbol for those who struggle with mental health issues.
»A semicolon tattoo is a tattoo of the semicolon punctuation mark (;), which is used as a message of affirmation and solidarity with those who have dealt with su***de, depression, addiction, and other mental health issues.»
Fan reactions are strong to Bonk making such a strong stance in solidarity as it is uncommon for male athletes to talk about things like mental health.
Bonk Raises A Larger Question About Mental Health
Bonk's tattoo raises a larger question about athletes and their mental health. The NHL has recently done a better job of allowing players to leave if they are experiencing mental health issues. The NHL has also launched their Hockey Talks initiative that aims to raise awareness for mental health issues among athletes and make it easier to have a conversation about them.
The NHL's #HockeyTalks initiative aims to fight the stigma associated with mental health through positive action.
Help us break that stigma by sharing your story with #BreakTheIce.
Nick Paul's determination to raise money and awareness to youth mental health is inspiring. A reminder that when it comes to mental health, we are all on the same team. #HockeyTalks
POLL |
NOVEMBRE 18 | 72 ANSWERS First-Round Pick Stuns With Heartbreaking Tattoo Do you think the NHL should do more for mental health? |
Yes | 40 | 55.6 % |
No | 32 | 44.4 % |
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