The Cochrane Generals’ junior players are trading their skates for sleds this Sunday, Jan. 11, as they take part in the team’s third annual sledge hockey charity game at the Totem One arena in the SLS Centre. Puck drop is scheduled for 2:30 p.m.
Rick Richards, president of the Generals and a board member with the Calgary Sledge Hockey Association, says the game has grown each year and offers a unique challenge for local players. “My players can’t wait to play some sledge hockey,” he said. “The new guys have no idea what they’re getting into, but it should be a great time for a great organization.”
Sledge hockey is very different from stand-up hockey, Richards explained.
“It takes completely different muscles,” he said. “Our guys can get going on the sleds, but they can’t stop or turn easily — those are skills they need to learn.”
To help players prepare, the Generals are holding a training session Thursday at WinSport in Calgary, with coaches and experienced sledge players on hand to guide both new and returning Generals players.
The game will feature multiple divisions from Calgary Sledge, with each period featuring a different level of team. Richards said this format gives fans a chance to see a wider variety of athletes and ensures more players get to be part of the day.
The Generals’ connection to Calgary Sledge goes beyond the rink. Richards first volunteered at a sledge tournament four years ago, and its lead to a deep connection with the entire Gens organization. He now sits on the Calgary Sledge board.
“This sport is open to everyone,” he said. “It’s about giving people who are handicapped, injured, or just wanting to try hockey a chance to be part of the game. We’re expanding the platform of what sledge hockey is and showing it’s part of the greater hockey community.”
Adding to the local connection, the Generals’ play-by-play announcer, Lionel, is also a sledge player. He completed announcer training under Calgary Flames broadcaster Beasley and has been a consistent presence at Generals games.
“He’s part of sledge, he’s part of the Generals family,” Richards said.
Fundraising for Calgary Sledge
Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, and free for children under five. A portion of the gate, along with the team’s 50/50 proceeds, will be donated to Calgary Sledge. Additionally, he says more sponsorships are welcomed.
Fans can also contribute directly to help cover the high cost of equipment, including sleds and sticks, which continue to rise much like in stand-up hockey. Richards said this allows more athletes to take part in the sport, helping make hockey truly inclusive.
Richards said the event is about more than just the game.
“It’s a fun, inclusive day for players and fans alike,” he said. “We hope to fill the stands, raise awareness, and show people that hockey isn’t just for those who can skate upright or play at a high level. This is hockey for everyone.”
Kurt Rose, Alex Skiffington, Jeff McFly, and Hailey King were among last year’s participants from Calgary Sledge. Cochrane Now/Noel Edey
Gens Evan Malcolm, Zach Wilkins, Diago Coelho, and Cole Whelan were all part of last year’s game.