NHLPA launches UNLMT, an innovative athlete development initiative

The initiative was created as part of the NHLPA’s commitment to empowering NHL players to connect, engage and excel. UNLMT utilizes a by-the-players, for-the-players approach, helping players become the best they can be during their hockey careers and for years to come. Players can conduct in-class assessments in order to unlock their strengths and interests, where they can seek out mentors and guidance from personal strategists. The initiative ensures players receive one-on-one support every step of the way, driving meaningful outcomes for them in the process.

“With this initiative, we are focused on providing individualized support for each player so that they can excel both during their playing career and in the future,” said Marty Walsh, NHLPA executive director. “NHLPA UNLMT, together with our collaborators and a strong support team consisting of several former players, is committed to making sure these players become the best they can be  in the game and outside of it.”

UNLMT provides players access to exclusive resources from country-leading institutions to some of the most influential people in the hockey industry. All courses and modules are created in collaboration with a variety of best-in-class organizations, including the Stanford Graduate School of Business, Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia, UF Online, Temple University, Game Change, the Second City, Money Management International, Berlitz and many others.

Colorado Avalanche forward Lars Eller was one of the first players to participate in the program, stating, “It has improved me as a player to have other interests.” 

Buffalo Sabres captain Kyle Okposo is an alumnus of the Business Fundamentals Program at Stanford Graduate School of Business Executive Education. 

Okposo stated, “There are so many different avenues that are available to you while you’re playing, and the courses that NHLPA UNLMT is offering allow you to engage in a meaningful way.”