Minnesota Sled Hockey Association
Sled hockey (also referred to as sledge hockey and para ice hockey) was invented at a Stockholm, Sweden rehabilitation center in the early 1960's by a group of Swedes who, despite their physical disability, wanted to continue playing hockey. It was introduced at the Lillehammer 1994 Winter Games and the US won its first Paralympic medal in the sport - gold medal - at the Salt Lake 2002 Winter Games.
Sled hockey follows most of the typical ice hockey rules except for some of the equipment. Players sit in specially designed sleds that sit on top of two hockey skate blades. There are two sticks for each player, instead of one, and the sticks have metal picks on the butt end for players to propel themselves. Goalies wear basically the same equipment but do make modifications to the glove. Metal picks are sewn into the backside to allow the goalie to maneuver. Sled accessible rinks allow players to remain in their sleds and skate off the ice into the bench area. This requires that the bench area is flush with the ice and there is clear plexiglass replacing the white boards.
Sled hockey provides opportunities for athletes of all abilities at the local level for recreation/competition, all the way to the National Sled Team that plays in World Championships and the Paralympics.
Our Mission
We are the established sled hockey association in Minnesota that supports the highest quality hockey programs for athletes with physical disabilities.
Our Vision
We are a state level association through Minnesota Hockey and USA Hockey that represents all sled hockey teams in Minnesota.
We provide support and structure to all current and future teams.
Our goal is to continue to support and establish statewide and national sled hockey.
We provide and conduct skill clinics and coaching clinics.
We share best practices and communicate with local, state and national USA Hockey programs.
We foster a welcoming and safe environment for all. Hockey is for everybody.
FOUNDING SPONSORS
Minnesota Sled Hockey Association is a non-profit organization which conducts their financials through the Edina Community Foundation.