Springfield, MA, September 2024 – April 2025. CHDs All In program/Springfield Thunderbirds Sled Hockey program. Programs serve ages up to 16, an 17 and older through adulthood.
* Sled hockey, is HOCKEY but sitting down to play. This version of ice hockey is played primarily by people with lower limb mobility impairments. The game is essentially the same as “stand-up” ice hockey, the major difference being that the players use a sled with hockey skate blades mounted under a seat. The players use two sticks, one end of each having a conventional hockey stick blade and the other end equipped with stainless steel “picks” which can be dug into the ice to allow propulsion. In competitive play, hard checking, raised-puck shooting, and penalty killing 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.
Fees apply, registration is required to https://chd.org/programs-services/community-care-support/adaptive-sports-and-recreation-programs/activities-for-disabled-adults-western-ma/ and scroll down to Sled Hockey, or contact Allin@CHD.org or at Jlevine@chd.org.
