There is a new program in town, and organizers want to get the word out.
“It’s never been offered in Oceanside before,” Carla Pilton said of the new program called Adaptive Hockey, “and we just want to let everyone know about this opportunity,” she said of the program for people with special needs, both cognitive and physical.
Last Wednesday arena staff provided the public an opportunity to view this unique new program which they will be offering in the fall.
According to the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Valerie McNutt, “Adaptive Hockey is a hockey program for adults with disabilities and gives them the opportunity to play Canada’s game in a relaxed, non-competitive atmosphere.”
Wednesday’s event showcased the Nanaimo Eagles, a group that has been attending the program in Nanaimo which has improved their skills so much they are looking for another team to play against.
The Adaptive Hockey program in Nanaimo started up three years ago with four participants — that number has grown to 19 now.
“Thus, the start of our new program,” said McNutt.
Pilton, ‘the driving force behind this new program,’ will be coaching the program with her daughter Lindsay when it starts up in the fall.
“It’s open to male and females, teenagers and adults. You don’t need to know how to skate, just as long as you’re steady on your feet. The focus is on fun,” said Pilton, adding “our ultimate goal is to eventually develop a team and play the Nanaimo team.”
There is only one other team in the province, and that’s in the Interior.
For more information call Carla at 250-752-3848.
