Sled hockey (aka sledge and Para ice hockey) is seated ice hockey for physically disabled players. It follows typical ice hockey rules with the exception of equipment. Players use specially designed sleds that sit atop two skate blades and use two sticks with metal picks on the ends to propel themselves.

Players of all abilities are welcome to play with our club locally including practices and scrimmages. Per USA Hockey regulations, no able-bodied players are allowed on the youth travel competitive team, and 3 able-bodied players are allowed on the adult travel competitive team (not in goalie position).

No! Most sled hockey players have never played hockey before. 

You must wear long pants and closed toed shoes until you have shin guards and hockey socks, after which you may wear shorts if you wish. We recommend bringing layers to your first few trials until you know what clothes work for you. Most players wear a short or long sleeved performance t-shirt, athletic pants, and sneakers.

Sled hockey protective equipment is the same as stand-up hockey - helmet, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, and shin guards. Skate boots without skate blades are used to protect the feet, though closed toed shoes are allowed. Hockey pants are optional and usually not used as they interfere with the fit of the sled. We offer free equipment lending.

You may try and borrow a variety of sleds and sticks with our club for free. The two closest, major sled equipment manufacturers are Unique Inventions and Mobility Sports. Please visit their websites to learn more about their products. We can assist you with equipment ordering and fitting.

USA Hockey's website provides up to date information on sled hockey basics videos, rulebooks, guidebooks, and national sled hockey information. Our staff is available to answer your questions and assist you.

We have two sled hockey seasons, the regular winter season from September to April (8 months) and a summer season which is usually one or two weekend camps during the summer time. You may have one free trial at any practice and then join a team if you would like to continue playing. Most of our events are held at The Rinks - Poway Ice. Please check our schedule and events for more details.

We provide all necessary equipment including protective, sled, and sticks, as well as expert coaches, equipment fitters, and volunteers. All you need to do is to show up on time in the proper clothing and be ready to work hard and have fun! Learn more about what we provide here.

Check out our registration page to register for a free trial, event, or season and learn about the pricing. The registration process requires collection of medical, financial, and demographic information. All players are required to have a current USA Hockey registration (we assist to obtain it free for your first year) and a current rink waiver on file. These documents will be reviewed at your first event.

Yes, player and parent expectations will be provided during team meetings. 

Both the youth and adult sled hockey teams travel to regional and national competitions. The coaches identify and invite eligible players to travel events. You may choose to attend or not. Pricing for travel events is separate than season registration and identified on an individual event basis.

Yes! We offer options for groups, companies, and organizations to play sled hockey as team building experiences. Your hockey team may also hop in sleds and scrimmage against our team. Please contact Sarah Bettencourt to learn more.

Yes! We offer various temporary and permanent volunteer positions to meet your skills and commitment desires. Please contact Sarah Bettencourt for more information.

Please reach out to us at info@duckssledhockey.org with any questions!