Justin Davis was never a superstar. He was a journeyman player, one of tens of thousands, chasing the dream. And at almost every step, when hockey gave him something, it would also take something away.

Hockey exacts a heavy toll on many boys and young men — on their minds and their bodies. And then they’re told not to talk about any of it outside the locker room.

It’s enough to make you ask the question. Is this a sport? Or a cult?

Featured in this episode: Justin Davis

To learn more:

Conflicted Scars: An Average Player’s Journey to the NHL by Justin Davis

“Hockey Is Not for Everyone” by Akim Aliu in The Players’ Tribune

“Flying” by Stan Rogers

Credits: Arshy Mann (Host and Producer), Jordan Cornish (Producer), Noor Azrieh (Producer), Annette Ejiofor (Managing Editor)

“I Am a Man Who Will Fight for Your Honor” by Chris Zabriskie, adapted. 

Additional music from Audio Network

Sponsors: Better Help, Ecojustice 

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