Ken Dryden to host concussion event

Hockey legend Ken Dryden will host a concussion awareness session Nov. 29 at The Venue, presented by the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation and HOPE.

The event, beginning at 6:30 p.m., will feature a panel discussion with Dr. Derek Krete, Dr. Bob Neville, Petes president Dave Pogue, Tracey Keluskey of the Lakers, Mike Keating of HOPE and local athletes Laura Young and Jack Crawford.

Dryden will provide the keynote address, including highlights from his new book Game Change.

“Ken Dryden has been one of the first supporters of Youth Sports Concussion Awareness Program and we are so pleased to have him returning to Peterborough for an education session to raise further awareness on concussions,” stated Laura Kennedy, the foundation’s executive director, in a release. “We’d really like to see as many coaches and trainers from across the community attend as Dr. Derek Krete will be providing a dedicated presentation for sideline assessment and return to play protocols. We’re also excited to hear from the community on this issue and looking forward to dynamic discussions that will help direct the growth of our partnership with HOPE on concussion education and resources.”

Game Change is the story of NHL player Steve Montador, who was diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) after his death in 2015, and looks at the history of safety in the game and the issues surrounding concussions among professional athletes.

“Concussion education and awareness is very important to us a sporting community,” stated Ryan Sedgwick, HOPE.

The event is free to the public. RSVP to info@gphsf.ca to reserve a space.