People with Disabilities Get Chance to Play Ice Hockey

PRLog (Press Release) - Jan. 20, 2012 - The Florida Sled Hockey Association is hosting an Intro to Sled Hockey Clinic on January 28, from 2:30 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the Fort Myers Skatium (2250 Broadway).  Sled hockey is an accessible version of ice hockey, adapted for people with physical disabilities.

People of all ages and abilities are welcome to attend the free Saturday clinic.  Sled hockey players and coaches from around the state will be on hand to explain the sport, demonstrate skills, and facilitate on-ice lessons and scrimmages.

This will be the Florida Sled Hockey Association’s third clinic in Southwest Florida, and seventh statewide.

“Our goal is to get ten to 15 new athletes for our program this year,” explains Florida Eels  sled hockey (http://www.floridasledhockey.com) coach Ron Robichaud, who first brought sled hockey to Florida two years ago with programs in Fort Myers, Rockledge, Fort Lauderdale, and Tampa. “Our players don’t just learn to play hockey, they also learn teamwork and life skills, develop stronger self-esteem, and respect for others.”

Attendees are asked to wear warm clothing (jeans and sweatshirts).  All equipment will be provided at the clinic.

The clinic is sponsored by Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida (http://www.goodwillswfl.org) and the City of Fort Myers Skatium.

“A big part of our mission is helping people with disabilities overcome their barriers to independence,” explains Goodwill spokeswoman Kirsten O’Donnell.  “If you’ve ever seen wheelchair basketball or rugby, you know that people with disabilities have unlimited potential.  It’s just sometimes hard to find opportunities.”

For more information about the Intro to Sled Hockey Clinic, contact Ron Robichaud at (207) 252-7134 or via email: floridasledhockey@yahoo.com

# # #

About Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida:
Goodwill operates 25 thrift stores in SW Florida to support its mission of removing barriers to independence. Programs include income-sensitive housing, career placement assistance, the L.I.F.E. Academy Charter School, Four Wheels for Work, and others.

Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/11777556/1