STRIDE Adaptive Sports Sled Hockey Team Receives Funds
Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation presented a $4,000 check to support the STRIDE Capital District Sled Warriors. The grant from Dick’s will aid the Capital District Sled Warriors team to travel to the Empire State Games and the Amelia Sled Hockey Tournament.
The Capital District Sled Hockey was established in 2009 through STRIDE Adaptive Sports, an organization that provides life-changing sport and recreation opportunities for youth with special needs and Wounded Warriors.
Sled hockey is an adaptive version of full-contact ice hockey that allows users with mobility impairment to participate in a seated position. Players use their hockey sticks to propel themselves on the ice, as well as to move the puck up and down the ice. Sled Hockey provides an equal experience for all to participate in the sport of ice hockey - regardless of the nature of their disability.
“STRIDE has steadfastly supported all the expenses associated with the team. As is standard practice, the team is responsible for travel costs. The generosity of Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation The Capital District Sled Hockey consisted of 18 members who practice weekly to prepare for the tournaments. Going to the Empire State Games and the Amelia Tournament are the highlights of the season, said Team Manager Jon Phillips. “We are thrilled that Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation recognizes the value of sports for all abilities. A special thank you to Dick’s Latham manager, Adam Fromma and Larry DiDonato for their assistance in applying for this funding.”
“I’m grateful to be able to award a Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation grant to the Stride Adaptive Sports sled hockey team,” says Adam Fromma, store manager of Dick’s Sporting Goods in Latham and former member of the U.S. Disabled Alpine Ski Team. “As an individual with a disability and former athlete myself, I understand how transformative sports can be for persons with disabilities. We hope this grant will help these inspiring athletes build their confidence, independence and skill so that they can excel in their sport.”