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The Full Story

About

Metro Detroit Sled Hockey is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2018 by a group of dedicated parents. Their shared vision was to create opportunities for their children, who loved recreational sled hockey, to learn the skills needed to compete at a higher level. At the time, Metro Detroit lacked a competitive youth sled hockey team, so they came together to establish the region’s first youth competitive sled hockey program.

Since those humble beginnings, Metro Detroit Sled Hockey has grown significantly. What started with just seven kids has expanded to include four teams, encompassing both youth and adult athletes. By incorporating adults into the organization, we’ve created valuable mentorship opportunities—providing younger players with role models who “look like them” and demonstrate what’s possible on and off the ice.

Today, our organization supports players at all levels—from brand-new skaters taking their first steps into the sport to elite athletes pursuing and achieving their dreams of representing Team USA and Canada at the Paralympic Games.

The Benefits of Adaptive Sports
Adaptive sports like sled hockey offer a wide range of benefits, including:

  • Improved physical health

  • Increased self-confidence

  • A sense of achievement

  • Teamwork and inclusion

These skills extend beyond the rink. Adults with disabilities who participate in adaptive sports are twice as likely to be employed, demonstrating the long-term impact of these programs.

Our players all have physical disabilities that prevent them from playing traditional stand-up hockey. For many, sled hockey becomes more than just a sport—it becomes a core part of their identity. When our athletes hit the ice, disabilities fade away. There are no limitations or inequalities; there are only hockey players, driven by passion and determination to succeed.

 

​Are you interested in learning more about Metro Detroit Sled Hockey or finding out how you can get involved? We’d love to hear from you!

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Female sled hockey player with team USA jersey

Our Mission

Provide the opportunity for any disabled athlete to reach their full potential on and off the ice.

Our Vision

An inclusive environment for disabled athletes through the sport of sled hockey

Sled hockey players in a huddle
Three youth making funny faces

Our Values

Skill Development: We foster an environment that values player development which includes skills that benefit everyday living over winning

 

Good Sportsmanship: We are fair, respectful, gracious, have a positive attitude and stay humble

 

Team Work: We value partnerships between players, parents, volunteers and the community with a focus on accountability

 

Inclusivity: We create environments where individuals feel secure and supported because everyone is accepted and included

Goals 2024-27

Growth

  • Establish women’s team with Mary Free Bed Wheelchair and Adaptive Sports

  • Create an adult house team

  • Create a second youth novice team

Advocacy

  • Advocate for proper level of play for all players in North America for all adaptive sports

  • Promote Women's Sled Hockey for Paralympics 2030

Funding

  • Eliminate the financial barriers for players to participate

An adult pushing a youth player in a hockey sled

Meet Our Donors

Gold

Kelly's Kidz

Kim Muir's Can't Skate Can't Play

Silver

Athletes Unlimited

GulfEagle Supply

Renegade Firearms

Bronze

Bruce Donovan Construction

MobilityWorks

Nite Cap Lounge

George H Pastor & Sons General Contractors

Fan of Sled Hockey

Thrive Hot Yoga

Global Rental Co

VMAX Batteries

You Can Make a Difference

Metro Detroit Sled Hockey offers a broad range of gift opportunities for donors who wish to designate their gift toward a special project or fund. Contact us to discuss your interests

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