CALGARY, Alta. – Canada’s National Sledge Team returns to Bridgewater, N.S., site of January’s World Sledge Hockey Challenge, to kick off training camp ahead of the 2016 World Sledge Hockey Challenge.
Canada’s training camp takes place from Nov. 10-16, and fans are invited to watch practice and support the players in their quest for a gold medal on home ice at the 2016 World Sledge Hockey Challenge, Dec. 4-10, in Charlottetown, P.E.I.
Team Canada’s return to Bridgewater for its pre-tournament camp is just part of the lasting legacy the community has benefitted from in hosting the event last January.
“Bridgewater added to the success from 2008-2009 with an economic impact of almost $1 million dollars with an estimated $600,000 in economic activity injected directly into the local economy. That financial boost also supported wages and salaries in Bridgewater,” said Kevin Benjamin, general manager of the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre and co-chair of January’s World Sledge Hockey Challenge.
“Most importantly, the tournament also created a legacy fund of $35,000 that was used to form and (continue to) support the South Shore Sledge Sharks minor hockey sledge team. Those funds have made it possible for the team to be able to purchase 15 sledges and gear, uniforms as well as being able to cover ice time. Plans are also in place to continue to provide on-going support through this legacy for the Sharks.”
This marks the third time Charlottetown will welcome the four-team event, which features Canada, silver-medallist in January, as well as Korea, Norway, and defending gold-medallist, the United States.
Fans can purchase full-event ticket packages, which include six preliminary-round games, two semifinals, and the bronze- and gold-medal games, for just $50. They will also be available for purchase at MacLauchlan Arena beginning Nov. 7.
Other ticket options, including preliminary-round and medal-round day passes, will be available for purchase on-site starting Dec. 4. A special ticket package is also available for minor hockey teams.
Note to media: Media accreditation requests for the 2016 World Sledge Hockey Challenge is now open; please submit online accreditations no later than Tuesday, Nov. 22.
For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s sledge hockey programs, visit HockeyCanada.ca/WSHC or follow along via social media on Facebook and Twitter.