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Sled hockey (also known as para ice hockey) is a fast-paced, full-contact sport. Players use a sled with two skate blades and two sticks with metal picks to propel themselves and handle the puck. The sport follows most standard ice hockey rules but uses specialized equipment and offers a dynamic, inclusive option for both disabled and able-bodied players. Anyone with a physical disability is welcome to join the Chicago Freeze sled hockey program.
The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab proudly partners with the Chicago Park District to provide the Chicago Freeze sled hockey program that is comprised of two teams:
- A traveling competitive team for more advanced athletes; and
- A Developmental team is for up-and-coming athletes who wish to learn and develop their sled hockey skills as well as hone their talents at area competitions.
The Chicago Freeze are a founding member team of the Midwest Sled Hockey League (MWSHL). Member teams each host a tournament weekend that culminates in the MSWHL Championship weekend, the Wirtz Cup, hosted each year in Chicago.
We also participate in the Annual Sled Classic presented by the National Hockey League and the USA Hockey Sled Nationals.
2025-2026 Chicago Freeze Sled Hockey Season Schedule
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Practice Location: McFetridge Sports Center, 3843 N California Ave, Chicago, IL 60618
Practice Times: Sundays 9–10:45 pm and Wednesdays 9:30–10:45 pm
Game Schedule:
- September 25-28: Development team in Park City, Utah for the Mountain West Tournament
- November 7-9: Championship Team in Elk River, MN for triple header with MN Wild
- December 4-7: Both teams at the NHL Sled Classic in Long Island, NY
- January 2-4: Championship team in Denver, CO MWSHL League weekend
- February 13-15: Championship Team in Detroit, MI for MWSHL League Weekend
- March 7–9: Both Teams in Chicago for Wirtz Cup Championship weekend.
- April TBD: Both teams at the Deep Dish Classic in Chicago
- April 30 – May 3 Both Teams in Dallas, TX for the Sled Nationals presented by USA Hockey
- May 29–June 1: Championship Team in Blaine, MN for Hendrickson Festival
- June 7: Summer practices begin (only Sunday Ice)
Contact
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For questions and registration, please contact Derek Daniels at ddaniels@sralab.org or 312.238.5010. Registration is required to participate. To participate in adaptive sports, participants must fill out our intake form.