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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