CHD Sled Hockey

About CHD Sled Hockey

Sled hockey is an exciting ice sport that allows individuals with physical disabilities to enjoy the great sport of hockey. In terms of concept and rules, it is very similar to “stand-up hockey.”
The main difference is that instead of standing up to skate, participants sit on their skates using an adaptive device known as a sled, which is affixed with two skate blades and a runner in the front to form a tripod. The other main difference is that in sled hockey, participants use two shortened hockey sticks with a blade on one end and a pick (similar to the end of a figure skate) on the other end, which enables them to propel themselves across the ice much like in cross country skiing. Hard checking, elevated puck shooting, and 60 MPH slap shots 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. Even able-bodied individuals enjoy the sport of sled hockey and can play on a team.

The CHD Sled Hockey Thunderbirds play half the time at Mass Mutual Center and the other half at Olympia Ice Center in West Springfield.

If you are between the ages of 4 and 16, you can join the Springfield Thunderbird Junior Sled Hockey team.  For players 16 years & above, the Springfield Thunderbird Sled Hockey Recreation team could be the right fit. Players on the recreation team can try out to become part of the Springfield Thunderbird Sled Hockey travel team!  The travel team competes in the Northeastern Sled Hockey League. All players (including juniors) need to become members of USA Hockey to play in the league.

The teams rely heavily on in-kind and financial donations because each player is specially fitted to their equipment.

Springfield Thunderbirds sled hockey is administered by CHD. We have three different teams to meet the needs of various age groups and skill levels:

• Junior Team (ages 4-16)
• Adult Recreation Team (ages 16+)
• Competitive Travel Team (ages 16+, tryouts required)

COST: Junior Team $200, Adult Rec. and Travel Team $300

The program purchases ice time and sleds, and members pay just a small fee to play for the season. We try to keep the costs low for participants who may be facing financial hardship due to medical expenses and the cost of living. Donations are always welcome. To learn more, visit: https://chd.org/sledhockey/