Steve and Suzanne

A guy goes in to a gym…and comes out a sled hockey player! Well, it wasn’t quite like that, but close! Steve had been working out at a crossfit gym in Dansville when a gym friend told him about sled hockey. “It’s the game of hockey,” he said, “but everyone skates seated in a hockey sled.” Steve was intrigued – the only way he could skate due to his disability would be to be seated, but he hadn’t heard of this sport before. His online search that night led him to the Rochester Sled Hockey group, and he discovered that the next clinic was coming up. He and his wife, Suzanne, decided to go so he could see if this sport would work for him. Suzanne would just come along as support.

Arriving at the clinic, Steve went to sign in. The volunteer expectantly asked Suzanne if she was going to sign in as well. Surprised, Suzanne indicated she was just there as support for Steve – but it was clear that they were BOTH invited to try it.  So they both got geared up with sleds, sticks, gloves, and helmets (even finding a bike helmet to work for Steve that day!)

“We got on the ice and we we’ve been hooked ever since! You couldn’t wipe the smiles off our faces for hours afterwards!” says Steve.

Just a few clinics in, it was obvious that Steve and Suzanne had found a sport they both could play together. Once they learned about the regional opportunities, they began playing in earnest. “We both eventually bought our own gear including sleds and helmets and we’ve been playing ever since and loving it!”  Steve has even been able to get his sled modified to provide the correct support for his feet.

Sled hockey is a wonderfully inclusive sport, played by a wide range of players with a variety of mobility diagnoses that limit participation in stand up hockey, and by non-disabled players who discover the joy of the sport. “It’s hockey – fast, exhilarating, and fun!” says Coach Darren Zyra. There is little difference between standup and sled hockey – the game play is very similar.  And all players will agree with Move United’s description: Sled Hockey – Move United (moveunitedsport.org)

“Sled hockey is a great form of exercise and fitness. It increases strength and coordination and also conditions the upper body. The balance used to propel, play the puck, and turn and stop gives arms, back and abdominal muscles a workout. Those who play regularly quickly notice an increase in overall strength and balance both on and off the ice.”

Steve and Suzanne are now part of regular season practices of the Rochester Sled Hawks, and travel to compete regionally, including in the Empire State Games. They are hopeful for the growth of the adult team and are excited to see the new youth sled program. “More players every year – I think we are going in the right direction!”