Special Hockey
Special Hockey, sometimes known as Adaptive Hockey, is a version of ice hockey adapted for athletes with cognitive disorders. For such athletes it bears a similar relationship to ice hockey as ice sledge hockey does for athletes with disorders of mobility.
Administratively Special Hockey is managed through Special Hockey International [1] and through national organizations such as the American Special Hockey Association.[2] Teams are typically supported by regional hockey associations, local adaptive athlete programs, user fees and generous donations from local organizations.
Founded in 2006 Minnesota Hockey's Special Hockey Association [3] has 5 teams as of 2010, all in the Twin Cities area. These include the North Polars, West Eagles, Wildcats, Rapters and East Stingers.
