I have had the awesome opportunity to witness a sport I definitely would have never heard of if it wasn’t for an unfortunate motorcycle accident that caused my fiance’s parents to be amputees. Her father Marty Kenniston plays sled hockey. (check out http://www.ctsledhockey.org/)

WHAT IS SLED HOCKEY?

“Sled hockey is an exciting alternative sport that uses the rules of hockey. However, instead of skating, the players sit on a specially designed sled and use two short ice picks to propel themselves across the ice. Standard hockey rules apply. Legal body contact and raised puck shooting are as much a part of sled hockey as they are in traditional hockey.” courtesy of Ctsledhockey.org

To watch men and women; disabled and healthy attempt to maneuver themselves up and down a full ice hockey rink for 3 periods is wild in itself. But to think that some of these individuals are playing in some cases without both legs, paralyzed in different parts of the body, with 1 arm. The cheering and recognition from fans and friends alike gives off feelings that would otherwise seem distant and rare unfortunately in what they consider the real world. (away from those they can relate to)

Though some may still look at them differently due to a handicap or something considered visually different, watching them playing Their game, kids and adults alike can get something positive out of the experience as well as a new understanding and hopeful appreciation of what ALL people have to offer no matter their personal difficulties or physical oddities compared to what is supposed to be “normal”.

Today I was at the International Skate Center in Simsbury, CT. Today was their celebrity game. There was a “Survivor” finalist, High School girls sports coach, NBC personalities and a few others. The Wolfpack won of course and afterward they allowed some to try out the sleds while others hoped their number was called in the raffle that was being held.

Overall it was an awesome experience. My fiance’s 8 and 10 year old kids loved every minute of the event. I do suggest watching a sled hockey game with the whole family one day. Remember that we are ALL different; physically, mentally, emotionally, sexually and just about every other facet of a person’s life and personality. Give all a chance.

Address:

CT Sled Hockey
45 Barber Pond Road
Bloomfield, CT 06002

Amputee Sports for Amputees With an Active Lifestyle

Northeast Passage/UNH Sled Hockey Team