Sled hockey, or “sledge” hockey, as it is referred to internationally, is the sit-down version of ice hockey. Sled hockey is a high-energy, fast-paced, literally “in-your-face” game, and it’s easy to see why it is becoming one of the favorite winter Paralympics sports to watch.
Sled Hockey History
Ice sled hockey was invented in the early 1960s in Stockholm, Sweden, by a few hockey players who wouldn’t let their disability get in the way of doing what they loved. They modified a metal frame sled with two regular-sized hockey skate blades mounted under the sled allowing the puck to pass through. However, it was not until 1994 at the Winter Paralympics Games in Lillehammer, Norway, that sled hockey became an official event. It is now practiced in 12 countries and is governed by the International Paralympics Committee (IPC).
There are many similarities between sled hockey and “stand up” hockey and just a few differences. It’s great when you can take a sport that so many people love and adapt it with very few modifications for people with disabilities.
Similarities
• Protective gear must be worn at all times, including a helmet with cage or shield guards, shoulder pads, gloves, elbow pads, neck guard, and hockey pants.
• A standard hockey rink with regulation goals is used.
• Pucks for sled hockey and hockey are the same shape and size.
• There are six players on the ice for each team (one goalie, three forwards, and two defensemen).
• Lines are changed either during stoppages or on the fly during play.
• All USA Hockey rules apply to sled hockey, with some necessary changes due to the nature of the game and its participants.
Differences
• Instead of skates, sled hockey players sit in specially designed sleds.
• Two shorter sticks are used for sled hockey instead of the regular one.
• At most rinks, the bench is inaccessible to sled hockey players. Therefore, the players sit on the ice along the boards in front of the benches between the blue line and red line. The same goes for penalties. Sled hockey players sit in front of the penalty box.
• A sled hockey game is played with three 15-minute periods rather than the standard three 20-minute periods.
The Adaptive Equipment for Sled Hockey
The Sled (Sledge)—Plastic bucket seats are mounted to the aluminum or steel frame and are made for a tight fit. Two standard skate blades are attached to the bottom of the frame of the sled and can be adjusted based on the player’s balance and skill level. A puck must be able to pass underneath. The sled may have a backrest, but it cannot protrude laterally beyond the armpits. Straps also secure the players’ feet, ankles, knees, and hips to the sled.
The Stick—Two sticks are used. The sticks have a hooked wooden blade at end (for puck handling) and a pick at the other end (for maneuvering on the ice). The sticks used in sled hockey are about one-third the size of a regulation hockey stick. For people who experience grip issues, it’s nothing that a little duct tape won’t fix.
Teams around the Country
Sled hockey teams range from youth to adult, including both competitive and recreational play. Both men and women play.
Sled Hockey Resources
• United States Sled Hockey Association is the national governing body
• NCPAD has great video clips of putting on gear and how to use the picks
• Sled Hockey America has a great resource for finding a local team near you
New England Bruins provided the hockey pictures
