A Partnership Built to Support Players Beyond the Rink
Shift Group, a leading provider of career development for athletes & military veterans, is proud to announce a new partnership with the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA). This collaboration is designed to help hockey players leverage the discipline, resilience, teamwork, and competitive mindset that made them elite on the ice as they transition into meaningful professional careers.
The PHPA has long been a leader in supporting professional hockey players, providing trusted guidance, resources, and direction as athletes navigate both their playing careers and life beyond the game. This partnership builds on that commitment, expanding the tools and pathways available as players prepare for the next chapter.
“Athletes often face uncertainty when it’s time to transition out of the game. This partnership will provide players with access to a trusted resource that can help them navigate that shift with confidence and clarity,” said Brian Ramsay, Executive Director of the PHPA.
Through this collaboration, Shift Group connects players with opportunities where they can continue to excel professionally, while giving employers access to a high-performing, coachable talent pool shaped by years of elite competition.
Creating Clear Pathways to Life After Hockey
Earlier this year, the PHPA introduced The Professional Hockey Players’ Guild, a comprehensive new resource initiative designed to support players throughout every stage of their professional journey, from the first day of their career to life beyond the game as alumni. This dynamic program is built around four core pillars of support (education, career, health and wellness, and perks), providing players and their families with the tools needed to thrive both during and after their playing careers.
“Hockey shaped who I am, and helping players carry those lessons into life after the game is why I started Shift Group,” said JR Butler, CEO & Founder of Shift Group. “The PHPA’s dedication to their players is outstanding, and we’re proud to partner with them to ensure great hockey careers lead to professional success beyond the rink.”
This partnership reinforces Shift Group’s mission to provide pathways for athletes to apply their unique skills and mindset in professional settings, while highlighting the PHPA’s leadership in preparing players for life beyond sports.
About Shift Group
Shift Group is a talent platform that transforms the experience of athletes and veterans into business-ready skills, providing companies with a pipeline of qualified, pre-vetted candidates who make an immediate impact. We accelerate hiring, reduce risk, and improve retention through a more efficient, data-driven process.
For athletes and veterans, we offer guided career transition support, from skill training and interview prep to curated job opportunities, helping them leverage their unique backgrounds to launch meaningful careers.
About the PHPA
Since 1967, the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) has served to advance and advocate on behalf of its members. The PHPA represents more than 1,800 players across 62 teams in the AHL and ECHL, while also serving more than 10,000 former PHPA Members through its Alumni Network. For more information, please visit PHPA.com.
