Inclusive Skate & Sled Hockey Skate Event for Disabilities in Western Mass

Springfield, MA, February 28th, 2026, with CHD’s All In: Barrier-Free Recreation. The Springfield Thunderbirds Sled Hockey Staff & Volunteers will take on the Springfield Thunderbirds Charity Team in a stand-up hockey game. * Cheer on your favorite team, then join in on inclusive skating, open to all, 1:15PM to 2:15PM * Adaptive sleds available (reserve in advance by contacting Jessica at jlevine@chd.org); * Milk crates available at no cost. -Ice skate rentals: $5 (paid to Cyr Arena) -Music, hot cocoa, bake sale & 50/50 raffle! For more information or to purchase tickets visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1955111441705801  or contact Jessica at jlevine@chd.org.  CHDs All In program/Springfield Thunderbirds Sled Hockey program has three teams:

• Springfield Thunderbirds Junior for ages 4 – 16
• Recreational Team for ages 16+
• Competitive Travel teams for ages 16 + (tryout required)

* Sled hockey is an ice sport that allows individuals with physical disabilities to enjoy the great sport of hockey. * It is very similar to “stand-up hockey” in terms of concept and rules. * 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-mile an hour 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. *Able-bodied individuals can play on a team. For more information or to register contact Jessica Levine at Jlevine@chd.org.