NUNAVUT - Nunavut's hockey star Jordin Tootoo has checked himself into rehab for alcohol abuse.

Jordin Tootoo: NHL player from Rankin Inlet seeks treatment for alcoholism. - NNSL file photo

"Our family couldn't be prouder and it's the best Christmas presents that two parents could receive," said Rose Tootoo.

Jordin, a 27-year-old from Rankin Inlet who plays right wing for the Nashville Predators in the National Hockey League, voluntarily entered the NHL's substance abuse and behavioural health program. The announcement was made on Dec. 27.

Two days later, Rose told News/North that her son's drinking got worse over the past few years.

She said she thinks this was prompted by the death of her late son, Jordin's brother Terence, who committed suicide eight year ago.

"First of all he needs to stop drinking and also to learn to grieve," she said.

She and other members of the family had no idea Jordin was going to enter rehab. She said this came as a relief to her.

She said she knows her son is in Los Angeles and that the treatment could be anywhere from 30 to 90 days long.

"We are just grateful he did it all on his own," she said.

Jordin is in his seventh season with the Predators and has scored four goals and six assists in 32 games so far this season.

He will continue to receive his salary and benefits but must complete the entire treatment. In February, 2010, he signed a $2.5 million two-year contract extension with the Predators.

"We offer Jordin the full support of his teammates, coaches and the organization," said David Poile, general manager for the Predators in a statement made to The Tennessean, a newspaper in Nashville.

Rose said the family has received a lot of support as well and they got calls from a couple of NHL players including Theo Fleury.

In Iqaluit at the Tim Hortons, people were chatting about the hockey player's status.

"Good for him as he is a role model," said Annie Onalik.

Rose agreed with Onalik.

"It's a nice eye opener for all these young teens and adults – they don't have to wait to be told to go out and do it. If they think they have a problem, ask for help, it is there," she said, adding that it takes determination.

She is pledging not to drink alcohol as of Jan. 1, in support of her son.

"We pray he will come clean and sober."

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