The Mission of Tampa Bay Sled Hockey
The mission of Tampa Bay Lightning Sled Hockey is to provide the opportunity for individuals with physical limitations to learn about and participate in the sport of hockey. Our focus is on developing each athlete through instruction, encouragement, evaluation, and competition. This progression promotes and improves the sport of sled hockey by allowing local players to participate from novice to national level of play. Athletes will improve overall health and fitness levels while participating in therapeutic and competitive sport. Ohio Sled Hockey athletes will experience team camaraderie, trust, and the development of meaningful friendships both on and off the ice.
ABOUT SLED HOCKEY
Sled hockey (or also known as sledge hockey in Canada and Europe) is an adapted version of ice hockey for athletes whose disability may inhibit them from playing stand-up hockey. Able-bodied players are also welcome to participate in the sport as well. Players will sit in an individually designed sled that is fastened to two rails on two adjustable in width skate blades with a strap around their waist to secure them to the bucket. There is a skag at the front of the sled that glides along the ice helping the skater to maintain their balance which is underneath a foot guard for the players to rest and support their feet. Sleds are customized to the individual player to best fit their needs.
Sled hockey is rapidly growing throughout the United States and Canada, both countries which support very competitive teams in the Paralympics.
JOIN THE PROGRAM
Are you interested in joining the team? The Tampa Bay Lightning Sled Program is for youth and adults who have a physical disability limiting one's ability to play ice hockey in a standing position. Whether you are a seasoned vet participating in all games and practices, or you're looking to begin playing for the first time, we have a spot for you! You must provide your own equipment in order to participate. First-time sled players may loan a sled from the program for their first year of participation!
For any questions, comments or concerns please email Gloria Smith at GSmith@viniksportsgroup.com
Donate to the Tampa Bay Lightning Sled Hockey Program today
Lightning Try Sled Hockey for Free:
The Tampa Bay Lightning are proud to host a Try Sled Hockey for Free! This program is for youth, ages 8-55, who have a physical disability limiting one's ability to play ice hockey in a standing position.
The event is FREE for all participants. Additionally, participants will receive all necessary equipment to play, including sleds and sled hockey sticks, which will be on site for use during the program
Location: Nest Hockey Academy
Address: 9175 McKendree Rd, Wesley Chapel, FL 33545
Time: 10:30 - 12:00 pm
Dates: September 8th
Rec development program
Designed for beginners to the game of Sled Hockey who are looking to develop their skills throughout the year. Participants will join the Tampa Bay Lightning Rec Team and will be designated as practice specific players. These players will attend weekly practices to work on individual skills, such as, skating in the sled, stick handling, passing, and shooting.
Travel program:
The Tampa Bay Lightning Sled Hockey Team is an organized travel team that runs during the normal hockey season of September to April. Participants consist of both female and male players who are ages 16 years old and older. Throughout the season, the Lightning Sled Hockey Team participates in the South East Sled Hockey League, the USA Hockey Sled Classic presented by the NHL, and the Toyota USA Hockey Sled Hockey National Championship.