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Sledge Hockey Jamboree returns after one year off

Jan 7, 2022 | 4:09 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – After waiting almost two years, the Medicine Hat Sledge Hockey Jamboree is only one week away.

Two Medicine Hat teams will host one Calgary team in two separate divisions.

The junior competition will feature athletes aged six to 20 years old, and there will also be an adult tournament.

“We are really excited to be hosting the Medicine Hat Sledge Hockey Jamboree this year,” says Medicine Hat Adaptive Sport and Recreation program coordinator Tara Chisholm. “Last year we were unable to host it due to the pandemic which meant our players have not had a chance to showcase their skills to friends and family in over two years. This means a lot to all those involved in our organization.”

The tournament schedule can be found at mhasr.com and admission for the public is free. All games are at the Big Marble Go Centre.

If you’re interested in trying sledge hockey, a “community try-it” event will take place Jan. 15 from 12:15-1:30 p.m. You need to bring your own helmets and gloves, sleds and sticks will be provided.

Sledge hockey, also known as para hockey, was originally designed for athletes with lower body disabilities to play the sport of hockey. Athletes use a piece of equipment called a sled that allows the athletes to sit down in a bucket-style seat that has two hockey skate blades underneath it. Athletes propel themselves along the ice using a stick in each hand that has metal picks on the end. At the grassroots level, athletes with and without disabilities are welcome to play together.