SANFORD, Fla. - Hilinski’s Hope visited the Florida League this past Thursday and Friday, sharing Tyler Hilinski’s story and promoting mental health awareness.

Hilinski’s Hope was founded by Mark and Kym Hilinski after they lost their son Tyler, who took his own life in 2018. The non-profit hopes to not only honor Tyler’s memory but also promote mental health awareness, resources, and end the stigma attached to mental-illness. All donations to the non-profit go toward funding mental health programs for student athletes.

The Leesburg Lightning and Sanford River Rats were able to sit down and listen to Mark and Kym on Thursday at Sanford Memorial Stadium while the Orlando Snappers and Winter Garden Squeeze received their Tyler Talk on Friday. In the presentation Mark and Kym shared their son's story as well as the mission of Hilinski’s Hope. A crucial message made to the player’s was the importance of recognizing issues when they arise and seeking help when they need it. As student athletes, they are expected to not only perform on the field but in the classroom as well. The pressure they face from fans, teachers, and themselves can be overwhelming but the speaker’s emphasized that through it all, mental well-being comes first. Mark and Kym also highlighted the importance of teammates and coaches during their talk. The connection between teammates doesn’t stop beyond the field and it’s critical for them to continue to show up for their team and to speak up when they recognize signs of struggle. 

After the Tyler Talk, players, coaches, and staff were able to have one-on-one’s with Mark and Kym. Hilinski’s Hope also handed out wristbands with the name the organization on the front and #3 on the back, Tyler’s jersey number at Washington State. The wristbands also contain The National Suicide Prevention Hotline number on the inside.

If you wish to donate and learn more about Hilisnki’s Hope, you can visit their website at: www.hilinskishope.org

If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental illness, please seek assistance or call The National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 (TALK).

Adrian Delgado (Central Florida)