The atmosphere inside the arena is electric. The sharp scrape of metal on ice is punctuated by rhythmic cheering from the stands and the occasional hollow thud of a sled tipping over followed immediately by laughter and a teammate's reaching hand
This isn't just a hockey game; it's a masterclass in inclusivity.
Through a powerhouse partnership between Abilities Ottawa and OCDSB's John McCrae Secondary School, the Sled N' Ed' program is proving that when it comes to sports, barriers are meant to be broken. What started as a conversation about the lack of athletic opportunities for students with disabilities has evolved into a thriving outreach program that is changing the culture of physical education across the region.
More Than Just a Game
Abilities Ottawa's Para Sport Education Outreach Programming isn't a passive lecture; it's an experiential deep dive. While many know them for wheelchair basketball, their repertoire is vast spanning sitting volleyball, boccia, wheelchair curling, goalball, and even beep kickball.
The goal is two-fold:
- For Students: To experience the thrill of para sports firsthand, fostering empathy and understanding.
- For Educators: To provide teachers with the tools and confidence to adapt their curriculum so that every student, regardless of ability, can participate in gym class.
"It's all about inclusive sport," says Jenn Talbot, Athletic Director at John McCrae SS. "It's an opportunity for students with and without disabilities to be involved in sport together."
The birth of Sled N' Ed'
A few years ago, Emily Glossop, Executive Director of Abilities Ottawa, sat down with Talbot to address a glaring gap: students with disabilities often found themselves on the sidelines during school sports.
The solution was Sled N' Ed, a para ice hockey tournament that brings the community together. Now in its second year, the program has scaled rapidly. Last year alone, the initiative supported 12 different schools across multiple boards through two seasonal tournaments.
"This is an opportunity for schools to put together inclusive teams," explains Emily Glossop. "They have athletes with and without disabilities come out and compete together for their school."
A day on the Ice
The tournament follows a round-robin format, but the real magic lies in the mentorship. Each school is paired with a celebrity coach ranging from local trainers to provincial and national team players.
The day begins with an introductory session where students learn the mechanics of the sled. From there, it's pure competition, supported by educational sessions led by John McCrae students that focus on the importance of physical activity for all.
For the participants, the impact is immediate. Dixon, a student at John McCrae, sums it up perfectly: "Even if you have a disability, you could compete. It doesn't matter where you're from or what you're going through you could always still play and nothing's stopping you."
"Electric" energy
The "Sled N' Ed" tournaments have become a highlight of the school year, drawing crowds that rival any varsity championship.
"It was so fun," says Ava, a student participant. "We had a big crowd in the arena... everyone was hyping us up, cheering for both teams. It was a great atmosphere."
That sentiment is echoed by the pros. Tyrone Henry, a Paralympic para ice hockey player, describes the scene as "electric."
"A lot of people were trying something for the first time, not really knowing what they're doing," Henry recalls. "So there was a lot of falling over and kind of picking each other up again. We got a few goals and they were so hyped. It was really good energy... a lot of spirit."
The road ahead
For five-time Paralympian Todd Nicholson, the success of these programs represents a shift in how we view education. "It really provides the opportunity for physical education to be part of our educational programs in the schools," he notes.
As Abilities Ottawa continues to expand its outreach, the message is clear: sport is a universal language. By getting students into sleds and onto the court, the community is building a future where no one is left on the bench.
As James Budrow of the Ontario Para Alpine Ski Team puts it: "To be able to include everyone and include all the smiles... It's a wonderful thing."
