Members of the community are being invited to come out this weekend to cheer on a special hockey matchup in Norfolk County.
The Norfolk County OPP will once again take part in its annual sledge hockey game against the South Coast Special Needs Kids team.
Constable Jeremy Renton was there at the very beginning, and he spoke to us about how it all got started.
While this is a big event for South Coast Special Needs Kids, Renton said it is also a big deal for the police officers who take part.
He said there is never a shortage of volunteers looking to hit the ice.
This year’s game is scheduled for Sunday, March 8 at noon at the Waterford Tricenturena Arena in Waterford, Ontario.
Admission to the event is simple — spectators are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item, with all donations going toward supporting local food banks in the community.
The goal is to have the stands packed.
Sledge hockey — also known as para ice hockey — allows athletes with physical disabilities to play the sport using specially designed sleds and sticks.
The sport has grown significantly in recent years and is a major event at the Winter Paralympic Games.
Events like this local exhibition game help introduce more people to the sport while celebrating the determination and teamwork of the athletes who take part.