Fans cheered on all the players at the Cochrane Generals’ annual sledge hockey fundraiser on Jan. 11, enjoying the thrills — and many spills — as teams battled across four increasingly competitive matchups.

In the final game, the ‘B’ sledge team, Calgary’s top squad that afternoon, got down to business, showing just how fast and aggressive the sport can be. The Generals were shut out 15-0 in the 20-minute feature game with stop time, highlighting the intensity of the sport both to play and watch.

The Generals played first against the juniors, aged five to 16, celebrating their first goal before moving on to the C and C+ teams, then facing the skilled B players, some of whom compete for Team Alberta.

 

 

“It was really fun — I’d even say more fun than last year,” said Calgary Sledge player Haley King, one of the Bs who also participated last year. “We got to have all of our levels and age groups come out, so everyone got a chance to play, and it was super fun.”

Sledger Kurt Rose, also a returnee, said the matchup with the Generals is always special.

“It’s fun having our highest-level team play up against the Generals every year,” Rose said. “Even knowing the outcome, it’s great to see them try it and put in that effort.”

Gen Colby Adam had a blast wearing stripes for the game, but it was an easier task than for rookie Chase Wienhoff, who was trying the sport for the first time.

 

 

“They’re good at what they do, for sure. They make it look a lot easier than it is,” Wienhoff said. “It’s so special to give everyone a chance to play hockey, and it’s fun to get involved with the community.”

Calgary Sledge Hockey Association vice-president Marina Seward said the event highlights how sledge hockey is making Canada’s favourite sport more inclusive.

“It’s a super exciting event that we look forward to every year because it brings awareness to the sport that we play, and it puts able-bodied, high-end players in the seats of a disabled athlete and opens their eyes to the world of para hockey.”

Beyond giving Cochrane a taste of the sport, the fundraiser helps support the program to ensure it is accessible. The cost of sleds, sticks, and protective gear can quickly climb to $1,000 or more per player. Fundraising helps ensure every player, from beginner to elite, has the chance to play.

Seward said the association values its ongoing partnership with the Generals, which has grown over three years. Gens president Rick Richards now sits on their board.

“Rick joined us on the board this year, so it’s been exciting to have him bring that other aspect from stand-up hockey into our world,” she said. Many of the uniforms also feature a Gens logo on the shoulder to acknowledge the team’s contribution.

Richards introduced the Generals to sledge hockey three years ago and helped create the fundraiser and growing partnership between the two organizations. Besides the charity games, the Gens have volunteered at the annual Western Canadian tournament whenever possible.

 

 

“It started as a way for our community to give back and have some fun, but it’s become so much more than that,” Richards said. “We got a taste of all the different dynamics of the teams. We want to show that there are other opportunities for kids who are brand new to it, have never seen it, and want to try it. Events like this show how inclusive hockey can be. Fans see the intensity, skill, and dedication these players bring, and it leaves a lasting impression on everyone who comes out.”

Some of the Generals were playing for the third time and have developed friendships over the years.

“Afterward, we have a party for all the teams to hang out and meet each other. It’s just a great event all the way around,” Richards said.

 

 

The Calgary association is preparing for the annual Western Canada Sledge Hockey Tournament, Apr. 3 to 5, which will fill all four arenas at WinSport over Easter weekend. Seward says this year’s edition is expected to attract about 30 teams, mostly from Western Canada, but also from London, Ont., and the United States.

The Calgary association is the largest sledge hockey organization in Western Canada, closely followed by Medicine Hat, with about 80 registered players.

More information is available at Calgary Sledge Hockey Association – An inclusive sledge hockey association.