Westfield, MA, August 5th 2023. With The Center for Human Development (CHD) All In program and the Springfield Thunderbirds Sled Hockey team. There is an open sled hockey skate at Amelia Park Arena in Westfield on August 5th from 10-11am.
* CHD will have equipment for anyone interested in trying a sled.
* Open to kids and adults.
* Join CHD on the ice and see what sled hockey is all about.
For more information visit www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=626717386166313&set=a.297023719135683 or contact Jlevine@CHD.org
CHDs All In program/Springfield Thunderbirds Sled Hockey program has three teams:
- Springfield Thunderbirds Junior for ages 4 – 16
- Recreational Team for ages 16+
- Competitive Travel teams for ages 16 + (tryout required)
* Sled hockey is an ice sport that allows individuals with physical disabilities to enjoy the great sport of hockey.
* It is very similar to “stand-up hockey” in terms of concept and rules.
* The main difference is that instead of standing up to skate, participants sit on their skates using an adaptive device known as a sled, which is affixed with two skate blades and a runner in the front to form a tripod.
* The other main difference is that in sled hockey, participants use two shortened hockey sticks with a blade on one end and a pick (similar to the end of a figure skate) on the other end, which enables them to propel themselves across the ice much like in cross country skiing.
* Hard checking, elevated puck shooting, and 60-mile an hour slap shots are as much a part of sled hockey as they are in “stand-up” hockey.
* Anyone with a disability that would prevent them from participating in “stand-up hockey” is a candidate for sled hockey. It is a sport that allows players with mobility limitations & lower limb mobility impairments to play, and requires great upper-body strength, balance, and the ability to handle the puck.
*Able-bodied individuals can play on a team.
For more information or to register contact Jessica Levine at Jlevine@chd.org.
