Hockey has always been built around toughness — playing through injuries, battling through adversity, and showing up when the pressure is at its highest.
But sometimes the biggest battles are the ones nobody sees.
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Colorado Avalanche defenseman Domenick Fensore will be using his platform to support an important message when he takes part in the fourth annual Shoulder Check Showcase on July 30, an event focused on mental health awareness and the importance of human connection.
The showcase brings together NHL players from across the league for a charity hockey game designed around a simple but powerful idea: reaching out to someone can make a difference.
Fensore, who signed with the Avalanche as a free agent on July 1, 2026, will be among more than 25 NHL players participating in the event at Martire Family Arena at Sacred Heart University. The event continues to grow each year, with the 2026 showcase marking its first time being held at the venue, which can host approximately 4,000 fans.
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The Shoulder Check Showcase was created by Rob Thorsen following the tragic passing of his son, Hayden, in May 2022. Through the HT40 Foundation, Thorsen has worked to promote conversations surrounding mental health and encourage people to check in with those around them.
This year’s event carries the message: “Reach out. Check in. Make Contact.”
For Fensore, the opportunity comes shortly after beginning his next chapter with the Avalanche. The defenseman arrives in Colorado after a standout collegiate career at Boston University, where he earned Hockey East First Team All-Star honors and was recognized as a Hobey Baker Award nominee.
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Now, as he transitions into professional hockey with the Avalanche organization, Fensore will be part of an event that highlights something larger than the game itself.
The showcase will also feature several other NHL players, including fellow Boston University alum Trevor Zegras, Chris Kreider, Tony DeAngelo, Ryan Leonard, and J.T. Miller.
The pregame festivities begin at 4 p.m. EST, with puck drop scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on July 30.
For Fensore, the event represents an opportunity to connect with fans, teammates, and the hockey community while helping promote a message that extends far beyond the rink.
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