Team Jigger sledge hockey program returns and expands

Wasdal says that this season features a Junior-specific program at the G.H. Dawe Community Centre that has seen significant participation in the first few months.

“We supply the primary equipment (sledges and sticks) for all our junior players, plus protective equipment in the event a participant cannot provide their own. Because the kids come from a variety of backgrounds and abilities, we’re all set up for them to ‘try’ sledge hockey at little to no cost to the parents.”

Foundation officials note that sledge hockey protective equipment requirements are similar to regular hockey, as players must wear helmets with a cage, neck protector, gloves and elbow pads. Shoulder pads and shin pads are not mandatory, however, they become necessary as a player’s skill level increases. Instead of lacing up skates, players are seated and strapped into an adjustable sled (or sledge) with a bumper at the front and blades directly under the seat. Players use two sticks in tandem. One end is bladed for the left or right and is used to handle the puck, pass or shoot. On the butt end of the sticks are ice picks, used to propel the player around the ice.

“It surprises most people when they find out a sled and a set of sticks costs about $1,000.00,” says Wasdal, “but with supporters like the Hockey Alberta and their Every Kid Every Community Program, the Red Deer & District Community Foundation, the Lacombe Kinsmen and local businesses like Blindman Brewing, we’re able to keep our ice time and equipment costs minimal.”

The Team Jigger Foundation says it has developed a sponsorship package for corporations, individuals, families, or any type of organization to contribute.

“Every amount helps to ensure accessibility, from the purchase and maintenance of equipment and off setting of registration, insurance and ice times to keep the program as affordable as possible for participants,” adds Wasdal.

As an accessibility initiative, the Team Jigger Sledge Hockey Program provides an opportunity for those experiencing physical barriers to reignite their love of hockey and work on developing skills and sportsmanship that connect them to their communities.

“Sledge is for everyBODY,” says Wasdal, referencing the Team Jigger Foundation mission of existing to motivate, encourage and provide the tools and resources necessary for everyBODY to live and function without barriers.

Established by Jason (Jigger) Lunn, the Team Jigger Foundation is a not-for-profit organization located in Lacombe that provides rehabilitation services and state-of-the-art neuro-rehabilitation equipment for individuals who have suffered spinal cord injuries or associated disorders. For more information, please visit www.teamjigger.com.

“It takes a community who come together to ensure access and inclusivity is available for all. That community includes Hockey Alberta, Paralympic Sport Association, and many amazing individuals who have sledge hockey experience through other organizations who lend their time and talents to bring hockey to everyone,” explains Wasdal.

“Our focus this season is definitely in establishing and growing a junior program, but people of all ages are invited to check it out,” states Wasdal, noting that ice times in three central Alberta communities help create several options for participation. “It’s all about accessibility and bringing recreation to those who might otherwise feel they couldn’t. Thank-you to our players, volunteers, families and communities for their support so far.”

Anyone who is interested in sledge hockey is invited to come for a ‘Try It’ event to learn more about this exciting and powerful game and experience it for themselves.

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by rdnewsNOW staff

Team Jigger sledge hockey program returns and expands

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