A 'try sledge hockey' event with two Team Canada members – forward Billy Bridges and defenceman Adam Dixon – attracted a number of participants, including members of the Summerside Western Capitals’ junior A hockey team and the P.E.I. Ice Breakers’ sledge hockey squad.
“We can never do enough to spread awareness for the sport, not only for disabled people but for able-bodied people as well,” said Bridges, 32. “Anyone can play it, and you can play with anyone. . .
“It’s a sport that seems daunting. There is funky equipment, but no matter what your capabilities are, or your age, anyone can play. That’s really the most wonderful thing about it.”
Challenge
Bridges and Dixon were on P.E.I. to promote the World Sledge Hockey Challenge from Dec. 4 to 10 in Charlottetown.
“Fans can expect some fast-paced games, some hard hitting and hopefully some nice goals and an exciting game overall,” predicted Dixon.
Physicality
One aspect that often surprises people is how physical sledge hockey is.
“If people have never seen it before they’re really taken back by how physical we are, and some of the collisions we have with our sleds,” said Dixon, 27.
Dixon said quality sledge hockey players have to be in good shape and have a good hockey IQ, before adding, “As well, intangibles like hard work as well as being a good person helps you out quite a bit.”
