Syracuse University’s men’s club ice hockey team recently collaborated with the CNY Flyers, a local club sled hockey team, to host their inaugural charity sled hockey tournament. The concept for the tournament was devised by Seth Gitner, a representative of Syracuse’s club team and a Newhouse professor, in partnership with Connor Chesner and Tony Larkin, two veterans on Syracuse’s roster.
Taking place on April 14, 2024, at the Tennity Ice Pavilion, the event showcased five teams, each of which submitted a £75 entry fee. A portion of the tournament’s proceeds were donated to CNY Adaptive Sports, a non-profit organisation supporting individuals with disabilities in sports activities.
With a longstanding tradition of philanthropy, the Syracuse men’s club ice hockey team viewed the tournament as an opportunity to embody their commitment to “leaving the place better than we found it.” Moreover, it served as a vital platform for promoting awareness of sled hockey and disability sports in the Syracuse community.
To promote the tournament, the club leveraged social media and a dedicated webpage to engage potential participants and accept contributions. Each team was required to include a player with a disability alongside other community members. Throughout the day, the Syracuse players interacted with individuals with disabilities, gaining a newfound appreciation for their resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles.
The tournament not only supported CNY Adaptive Sports but also underscored the inclusive nature of sports. It offered a fresh perspective on hockey, illustrating that it is a sport for individuals of all physical abilities.
Following the success of the tournament, the organisers expressed their intention to enhance its public visibility in the future. Despite this, there is optimism that the charity sled hockey tournament will become an annual tradition, further spotlighting the significance of inclusive sports and the valuable contributions of organisations like CNY Adaptive Sports.
The event concluded with an air of positivity and a sense of achievement, leaving the Syracuse men’s club ice hockey team and the CNY Flyers optimistic for the future of sled hockey and disability sports in the Syracuse area. It was a heartwarming illustration of community spirit and sportsmanship, demonstrating the profound impact that sports can have in breaking down barriers and uniting people.
The charity sled hockey tournament truly epitomised the power of sports in nurturing inclusivity and fostering meaningful connections within the community.
For further details about the event, please contact Matthew at [email protected].