Sledding into Amelia Arena |
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WESTFIELD — Amelia Park Ice Arena will be hosting the 13th annual New England Sled Hockey Invitational Tournament from April 15 to 17.
The tournament, which will take place for the ninth time at Amelia Park, will consist of adult and junior divisions competing throughout the weekend from 7 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, with championship games on Sunday from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Attendance to the tournament is free and will showcase 200 athletes and coaches from eight states. Past Paralympian and current National Team Players from the U.S. will be participating.
"This tournament is one of the most inspiring events you will ever experience," Carole Appleton, executive director of Amelia Park Ice Arena, said. "It is always a favorite of Mr. Ferst's and we are so proud to host these athletes and their families and friends at our facility."
The Pioneer Valley will have two teams of their own partici-pating: the Springfield Sliders, in the junior division, and the Western Mass. Knights, in the adult division.
The Sliders, consisting of local patients from Shriners Hospital, and the Knights practice weekly at Amelia Park.
The weekend tournament not only includes competition by athletes but opportunities for fans to interact with the athletes as well.
Informal meet and greets with athletes will take place each day courtesy of Women's Law Enforce-ment Association.
The New England Sled Hockey Invitational would not be possible without sponsors or volunteers. Those interested in being a part of this event, should contact Appleton at 568-2503.
Sled hockey, or sledge hockey as it is known internationally, is a sport that was designed to allow participants who have a physical disability to play the game of ice hockey.
Sled hockey was invented in the early 1960s in Stockholm, Sweden at a rehabilitation center. It is currently one of the most popular sports in the Paralympic Games.
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