Adaptive Hockey Programs
Overview
Adaptive hockey programs
The Tampa Bay Lightning is committed to creating inclusive opportunities for athletes of all abilities to experience, enjoy, and grow through the game of hockey. Through Lightning Adaptive Hockey, we are expanding accessible programming and creating meaningful pathways for athletes across Sled Hockey, Special Hockey, Warrior Hockey, Blind Hockey, Deaf/Hard of Hearing Hockey, and Standing Amputee Hockey. Our goal is to build a connected Adaptive Hockey community where athletes can develop their skills, build relationships, and enjoy the game in an environment designed to support their needs. Explore our Adaptive Hockey programs below to learn more and get involved.
For questions, please reach out to Gloria Smith at GSmith@viniksportsgroup.com.
All Programs
Sled hockey
Sled Hockey provides athletes with physical disabilities the opportunity to experience the speed, competition, teamwork, and excitement of hockey in an inclusive environment. Using specially designed sleds and hockey sticks, athletes can learn the game, develop their skills, and compete alongside teammates. Lightning Sled Hockey is focused on creating opportunities for both youth and adult athletes, providing a pathway for players to discover the game, continue developing, and become part of the hockey community.
Blind hockey
Blind Hockey provides athletes who are blind or visually impaired with an opportunity to experience and participate in the game of hockey. Adaptations to the traditional game help create an accessible environment where players can learn fundamental hockey skills, develop confidence, and enjoy being part of a team. Lightning Blind Hockey is committed to growing opportunities for athletes of different ages and experience levels to discover the sport and become part of an inclusive hockey community.
Lightning Warriors
Warrior Hockey provides military veterans and service members with an opportunity to connect through the game of hockey. The program uses hockey as a way to encourage an active lifestyle while building teamwork, camaraderie, and a strong sense of community among participants. Lightning Warrior Hockey welcomes players from a variety of hockey backgrounds and creates an environment where members of the military community can continue competing, develop friendships, and share their passion for the game.
Hard of Hearing hockey
Hard of Hearing Hockey creates an inclusive environment for athletes who are deaf or hard of hearing to learn, play, and enjoy hockey. The program provides opportunities for athletes to develop their hockey skills, build confidence, and connect with teammates while participating in the game they love. Lightning Hard of Hearing Hockey aims to increase access to the sport and create meaningful opportunities for athletes of different ages and experience levels to become part of the hockey community.
Special hockey
Special Hockey creates opportunities for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities to experience hockey in a supportive, welcoming, and fun environment. Programming focuses on skill development, teamwork, confidence, and a love for the game while meeting athletes where they are in their development. Through accessible ball and ice hockey opportunities, Lightning Special Hockey strives to give athletes the chance to learn the game, build friendships, stay active, and feel connected to the Lightning hockey community.
Standing Amputee Hockey
Standing Amputee Hockey provides athletes with limb differences or amputations an opportunity to participate in hockey while playing in a standing format. The program focuses on developing hockey skills, building confidence, promoting teamwork, and providing an inclusive environment where athletes can challenge themselves and enjoy the game. Lightning Standing Amputee Hockey is focused on creating greater access to hockey and building opportunities for athletes to learn, develop, compete, and connect with others through the sport.