Former Maple Leafs Kasperi Kapanen breaks his silence on his addiction
«I didn't even dare to tell my Father... It was such a big shame for me.» That's how much Kasperi Kapanen regrets how he dealt with his alcoholism issues.
The 27-year-old who now plays for the St. Louis Blues was arrested last off-season and charged for drinking and driving in his hometown in Finland. He was found guilty and had major fines to pay. He is finally opening up about what he went through.
"I didn't even dare to tell my father, because I knew he would be really disappointed," Kapanen said. "I think I told my mother and of course my girlfriend knew about it. I only told the others when the matter came out in September. It was such a big shame for me."
Fans might remember Kasperi's father Sami Kapanen, a long-time NHL forward. Kasperi had big shoes to follow in, and definitely felt the pressure mount, sadly turning to alcohol to help cure the pain.
"At some point, there was more drinking that I didn't do it to celebrate, but because there was so much pressure, annoyance or anxiety during the season," Kapanen shares. "I tried to use alcohol to almost mask those feelings."
Kasperi Kapanen says he is doing much better now and has tremendous support. He just signed a one-year deal with the Blues that will pay him $1 million next season, and he hopes to be able to contribute to get them to the playoffs.
Credit Hockey Feed:
Kapanen opens up on his struggles with drinking
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Will Kasperi Kapanen have a breakout year? | ||
| Yes | 114 | 39.2 % |
| No | 177 | 60.8 % |
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