Film on Sheldon Kennedy's troubled life to debut in Swift Current

A powerful new documentary on the rollercoaster life of former NHLer Sheldon Kennedy debuts in Swift Current Friday night.

Simply entitled Swift Current, the film delves into the upbringing of Kennedy, his triumphs and failures, and his sexual abuse at the hands of convicted pedophile Graham James, along with the tumultuous aftermath.

Kennedy will be in the city for the screening.

It comes at the same time the City of Swift Current launches a more in-depth certification and registration process for city-funded organizations where volunteers work with kids.

Anyone who wants to work with youth will need a criminal background check. The initiative also includes training to become better role models, and education on the prevention of bullying, abuse, harassment and discrimination.

An entire weekend’s worth of activities are planned in the city as the Rogers Hometown Hockey Tour swings through.

Kennedy’s old junior club in the WHL’s Swift Current Broncos will make a special presentation to him before the game on Sunday afternoon. He won a Memorial Cup with the team in 1989.