SLED HOCKEY SKATE-A-THON – 1.15.22

The Girls 10U Minor team, with assists from 10U Major and 8U Red collected over $21,000 in donations from a Skate-A-Thon held on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Mennen Sports Arena in Morris Township, NJ.  The proceeds will go to the Devils Youth Sled Hockey Program to upgrade and replace old equipment, sleds and more.  Some sled players joined the skate and Kelly DiNorcia, from Devils Youth, brought snacks and refreshments for the families and friends in attendance.

10U Minor Team Manager Dee deRonde spearheaded the effort and put in countless hours planning and organizing this incredibly fun and successful event.  Special thanks to Dee and Mark deRonde, Melissa Stys, Jay and Kristen Kishbaugh, Jenna Milachouski and all who helped the Colonials prove “Hockey is for everyone”!

The Devils Youth Sled Hockey program was started in 1999 for players with mobility impairments.  Head Coach Al Graul oversees this exceptional program that does not charge players to play, believing the game should be accessible to all no matter what their parents’ financial circumstances.  The sled players are currently using well-worn hand me downs and are in desperate need of upgraded gear to facilitate their dreams of playing hockey and keep them safe while competing.  If you wish to support the Devils Youth Sled team, you may still make a donation today to keep the joy and accessibility of the sport alive in New Jersey: Welcome | u10/u8 Colonials Skate A Thon | New Jersey Devils Youth Hockey Club (sportngin.com).

Sled hockey (Para ice hockey officially) first became a Paralympic event at the 1994 Lillehammer Games.  The Unites States team has medaled in the past 5 Olympics, including Gold in the 2010, 2014 and 2018 games.  New Jersey natives Jack Wallace and Chris Pauls were gold medalists in 2018.  USA Hockey hosted 27 teams at the November 2021 Sled Classic held at the Ice Vault in Wayne, NJ.  The Classic featured numerous local players and was sponsored by the NHL New Jersey Devils.