Long Island Sled Hockey Inc. - For the Differently-abled Athlete

Our dear departed friend, Bryan Blomquist, was a founding member of this organization and a non stop fundraiser until his untimely death. His son who has downs syndrome continues to play for The Rough Riders. They are exciting to watch.

This organization serves as much more than just a hockey league for the differently able. This organization is a place where all that are involved, be it a teammate, volunteer, or parent of an athlete, all become family. This organization is a support system for so many. It's hard to come by a group that is so inclusive. No one is turned away, if you want to give it a try come on down.

This programs continues to amaze me and what it has done for so many people. I am so proud to be part of this Organization and what it does. The word "NO" is not the vocabulary of this group. No matter what your challenge may be, we WILL find a way for you to play and become part of our family!

I have been a volunteer with LISH RoughRiders for over 20 years. It is a great organization for so many differently abled athletes. I am proud to be a part of this team and see firsthand how so many benefitted from it.

We can never , ever explain how amazing and
life changing this program has been to our son, who has Down Syndrome. We joined 15 years ago and that smile hasn’t left his face, especially when he tells everyone about all of his tournaments. During Covid not being able to attend practice and see his “ family “ has been the hardest thing for him.. We could never put into words how grateful we are for this program and all of the hard work the board puts into every detail .

Ive been the goalie for this program going on 23 years its hands down the best origination hands down

I have skated with the team before and it was one of the best experiences in my life. Everybody surrounding this organization are great people and do great things for the community.

Almost 25 fabulous years with this team. Couldn't hope for a better experience with a wide range of people and abilities. Strongly recommend coming down down to try, support or simply watch adaptive sports at its' finest!

My son Christopher played for The RoughRiders for two years unfortunately due to his diagnosis he is unable to play with them any longer. For those two years he smiled, laughed, was part of something, and every member of the team welcomed all of us with open arms and hearts. This team, this organization, well actually family was the best thing that happened not only to him but to our whole family. Christopher looks through pictures and talks about the games, bus rides, hotel stays, the memories that will last him his lifetime. The players, their families, the coaches, volunteers, there just aren't words to describe what they do and how they impact lives. Their talent, passion, and strength is incredible. Check them out sometime you will be amazed and if you have the guts hop in a sled get on the ice these athletes will make your head spin as they whip past you their skills and talent are incredible with the best coaches.

I have been involved with this organization as a player for 10 years now. It is a wonderful organization that gives physically and mentally challenged people of all ages the opportunity to play a team sport which is rare for this community

Been involved with the organization for years. The players and families are great. The organization pays for everything, all equipment, travel, fees for tournaments (5-6 per year), in the US and Canada. Travel includes airfare, busses, hotels, food. No athlete pays for this.
Great organization and I am proud to be a part of.

Awesome organization! Showed me it was still possible to be an athlete after my injury.

An inspiring scene.
Just watch these differently abled athletes arrive to practice sled hockey. They move at their own pace with a smile on their face. Then they move to the ice. Every one speeds his of her pace. Some seem to be flying. You can't see the face under the helmet, but you just know that the smile is broad. Finally as they exit the ice to return to their own pace you can see the broadest grins possible. Another wonderful day in life looking forward to next time.
A wonderful program worthy of your support.

The New York Islanders are proud to partner with Long Island Sled Hockey. We truly believe the game of hockey can be played by anyone and everyone. It is clear to see that the program promotes and encourages sportsmanship and teamwork among all and encourages those who might not think they can play hockey an opportunity to play the sport we all love.

I am a High School hockey coach on Staten Island and had the pleasure of meeting Bryan Blomquist 11 years ago. He is an extremely dedicated and unselfish person who puts in many, many hours to run this organization. We have held a charity game with the Rough Riders for these past 11 years and even though they beat us by at least 15 goals a game, it is an experience my players and their families will never forget. They are a very talented and disciplined team, which is a direct result of Bryan and his coaches. At least two or three of my players come up to me after each game we play them and state that "they will never look at a handicapped person again the same way" or that "they have a greater respect for the disabled now" due to this game. To me, that is what makes this organization so great, not only does it give these athletes a chance to play at a high level of competition (and win!!), but also to spread the word that nothing can hold you back if you don't want it to. I look forward to playing this year's game and seeing all our friends from the Rough Riders. Good luck in your games and tournaments.

A wonderful organization with dedicated volunteers who work very hard for the differently-abled. I have had the opportunity to assist this organization for over 20 years and they never cease to amaze me.

I love LI Sledhockey. It is my team and I play with great teammates and friends. come watch us play we have lots of fun but play hard. I like it when I score a goal or get an assist.

LI Sled Hockey has gone up and above the traditional rules of sled hockey by include the Developmentally Delayed population. This has allowed my son with Down Syndrome to be able to play for the past 20 years. This sport means the world to him. He gets the physical exercise he needs all while having the most fun with friends. The coaching staff is dedicated and truly loves the team. They give of their time and heart all year long. I can't thank them enough for all they do.

My son had been playing with the Roughriders for two years. The organization is well run, and is an amazing program for the athletes it serves. The program has wonderful leadership and they treat each and every player with respect.

Would highly recommend this program both as a great program to financially support as well as a great program for athletes with diverse abilities.

My daughter has been a volunteer for the past few years. As a family we have benefited greatly from our connection with this Incomparable Organization- these talented athletes bring their dedication, heart and soul to every event- from practices to Challenge matches and highly competitive tournaments. They are led by the finest group of selfless Leaders who always impress that there are no limits in life if you make the effort and work together - each athlete with conviction and self confidence rises to the challenge. So proud to have witnessed this amazing group. Blessed!!!

Long Island Sled Hockey is an amazing organization that we are proud to sponsor! They offer a tremendous level of dedication to the athletes they serve. Despite the physical challenges faced by these athletes, Long Island Sled Hockey works to ensure that they have an opportunity to play a team sport, without the burden of the expense. The athletes experience the positive energy of being part of a team as well as the thrill of competing. Skills are taught and confidence is built. Long Island Sled Hockey deserves to be recognized and supported for the selfless work that they do.
Maspeth Federal Savings

What an outstanding program! I have been a proud supporter of Long Island Sled Hockey for many years. The program allows for participation of physically and/or mentally challenged athletes with no cost to the them. The team travels to and hosts multiple tournaments locally and around the world. They have become one of the premier teams in North America.

Now 5 years strong with this organization, and I still cannot believe how fortunate we have been to become a part of this amazing family. I am forever grateful and look forward to making more memories to share.

My son just joined the team 7 months ago. LISH has given my son an amazing opportunity to be part of a team, and feel like a “normal” kid while playing out on the ice. Bryan, Frank, Phil and all the volunteers give so much of their time and effort to the players to make them successful. This is a wonderful organization inclusive to all with various challenges. We are very grateful to be part of it!

An amazing organization that is one hundred percent for the kids. I am a proud fan and have been for many years.

I have had the privilege of being a proud volunteer with LISH for 2 1/2 years. I continue to be humbled by the dedication of these exceptional athletes, their coaches and families. This year, I have shared in the true "on ice" experience- what a thrill to be a part of this incredible organization and family. I love every moment we are together.

My son has played with the RoughRiders for nine years and I can't say enough about the organization and players.

The Long Island Sled Hockey organization for Differently-abled Athletes is one of the best programs around. I have supported them for years and know how much this program does for its athletes. The fact that they pay for nothing, equipment, travel, uniforms, nothing is amazing. Knowing that all the funds raised go to the support of these exceptional athlete's
is why I continue to support them.
Dennis

Great Organization.... The hockey family at its best.....

It is great to be part of this organization, it is ran with the upmost professionalism. From the board to the volunteer's to all the families, everyone is treated as one big family. I'm so glad my son was able to join and play for this great team of individuals, I will speak for him now, and I can say that it has changed his life..........Thanks
Joe Laslo

We have been apart of this organization for the last 6 years. There is a genuine level of acceptance for all levels of abilities. Emotional and physical growth is fostered through this program. There is love and community with this amazing group of athletes, coaches, and very supportive families. This organization has changed our lives giving us a sense of belonging, worth, and accomplishment.

Incredible organization that offers something for everyone.

The long island rough riders are great! They provide everything an athlete with a disability needs from equipment to ice time. The benefits include exercise, competition and camaraderie. It specifically allows those with disabilities who love Hockey to play this great game .LISH Fosters an environment of hard work , teamwork and improvement . When you see your teammate score that first goal or make a big play— it’s a fantastic feeling. These good feelings have a positive affect on the players that stays with them long after they’ve left the rink!

The Long Island Sled Hockey is more than a team of athletes. It's a family consisting of players, coaches and families. We all play an important part in making this team not only winners out on the ice but winners when it comes to caring about each other. The saying goes "There is no I in team" and that certainly applies to our team. We are loyal not only to the game but to each other. My son has been a part of this team for over ten years and, in addition to learning to participate in a sport, he has experienced a camaraderie that will last a life time. In addition, I have also formed friendships that I cherish. The support from this team is phenomenal. As they say "You have to be in it to win it" and we are certainly winners on all aspects of being a team!!!

Watching these 'kids' on the ice is truly inspiring. No matter what their age, sex or disability, they are totally engaged in playing for their team. And, I might add, they're playing tough. No quarters given. They are encouraged and pushed by their coaches and fans whom you can tell really "love" them. The Long Island Sled Hockey group is an outstanding non-profit group.
Art David

I brought my 2 grandchildren to the game. We bought Tee Shirts that we’re for sale. We brought along markers and my grandchildren had all the players sign their shirt. You see in a child’s heart and eyes no one is different. We all do according to our capabilities. I have never been so humbled as to watch this team and families welcome us into their hearts. The spirit and gratitude that surrounds these games is miraculous. All monies donated goes 100% fund for the players to play. If they did not have donations they would not be able to play. Let alone with medical cost for all these families. If ever a cause to donate this is it. Every $ makes a difference. Let’s support these Hockey players capabilities. Ever $ makes a difference. Watching these games teaches you gratitude and humbleness. Donate and come watch the games. You will be glad you did

I have been a part of this organization for a little over a year, first as a supporter and now as a player. Long Island Sled Hockey has changed my life many ways - it has open my eyes to the world of adaptive sports and given me a second family. Everyone in this organization, from the volunteers, the parents, the players, are incredibly special people and do an amazing job making people with disabilities feel like they belong.

I've been a part of this organization for close to 15 years now and it has truly changed my life. My teammates and the everyone else who makes the organization tick have became a big family and every one is willing to help. The RoughRiders hold a special place in my heart ~Vinny

My son has been playing sled hockey for twenty years . This organization has made a world of difference for him.

Being apart of this team has been life changing for me for my first time playing organized Sports. And this team is truly a family amd has been such a blessing to be on this team

I've been a part of the Long Island Roughriders for 3 years now. When I started playing hockey, I had no idea what the sport was. I was immediately drawn to it because it felt great to be part of a team. The camaraderie and friendships I've made over the last few years have made for some of the best experiences of my life. The team always has each other's backs win or lose. I've learned valuable lessons about teamwork and selflessness over the years that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I owe all of this to the way that this organization is run and to the people and families that are all involved.

I am a veteran who served 5yrs in the United States Army. In 2011, before returning home from Afghanistan, I suffered a spinal injury that took me out of the fight. After, I didn't think there would be much I could do sports wise. During my rehab, I was introduced to this sport for therapeutic reasons and was hooked immediately. Along the way of playing other teams, I met and joined the Long Island Sled Hockey team. The experience since has been rewarding. The Long Island Sled Hockey team has become a huge inspiration in my life. They have given me the opportunity to play a sport and be part of a team that supports each individual with any disability, visible or not, on and off the ice. They have created a chance and challenge to make every player push themselves harder and prove that disabilities are not going to interfere with personal success. Every player comes off the ice a winner guaranteed! The best part of being on this team is that the players, the families of, the volunteers and the board members have become an extended family.

What a great program for athletes with both physical and mental challenges. Once on the ice all of there playing ability makes ones disability become nonexistent for a time. Wins and losses are rewarded in hugs, smiles and tears for all involved. NEVER SAY NEVER TO A CHALLENGE!!

I have been on this team for going on 5+ years now and i have never had the urge to quit and stop playing..thats only because this team and the people that help with this team have amazing commitment and determenation to make everything better and accesible for everyones needs

I'm really happy with LISH. Not only do they provide opportunity for any person with a disability a chance to play sled hockey, but they welcome new players with open arms. They believe that anyone can play sled hockey, and work hard to facilitate each players' successes. I've skated with them for five seasons, and find it incredibly rewarding.

My son has been playing for this organization for two years now and it has changed his life his personality is confidence he is a totally different child in a positive way. This team is family to us.

My son has been part of this organization for 6 years now!! It has made such a tremendous impact on his life!! There is never a bigger smile on his face than when he is with his teammates on and off the ice. They have become like a second family to us. It's simply an amazing sport an organization!!!

The team brought me back to the level of playing sled hockey like I used to be. I am grateful
for the equipment the team had bought for my use on the team. And meeting all the players
with their interest in hockey. Way to go Rough Riders. We are own Olympic team.

I am a volunteer with the LISH RoughRiders for many years. It is truly a great organization for special athletes to excel on the ice!

A few years ago I took a trip to Long Island to watch my cousin sled hockey game at the Annual RoughRiders Invitational Tournament. Long Island Sled Hockey, is an organization that supports sportsmanship and athleticism for youth and adults with varying handicaps. Sled hockey, if you have never seen it in action, is quite something. The speed at which the players are able to move themselves and a large sled across the ice, solely with their upper body strength, is unbeliveably impressive. Their shots towards and into the net have such force, that I ducked a few times at the crack of a stray puck against the glass. Family and friends are always in the stands showing support for the team, and it is clear that the leaders of this organization have created a unique community for their team players.

This organization is wonderful! They helped my nephew understand that even though he has CP it does not have to stop him from enjoying life and from participating in anything he wants to try to do.

've been a part of this organization for close to 11 years now and it has truly changed my life. My teammates and the everyone else who makes the organization tick have became a big family and every one is willing to help. The RoughRiders hold a special place in my heart ~Vinny

An excellent organization. I was fortunate enough to play with these guys for 3 years. Everyone plays, and the volunteers are very helpful and accommodating. There is no "I" in TEAM when it comes to LI sled Hockey. It's all about the athletes and the desire to see a smile on their faces
Way to go Bryan and company

My son Anthony is a big hockey fan. He expressed a desire to play in a league, inspired by watching his favorite team, the NY Rangers. He had visions of scoring goals, slamming into the net. We learned about the LI Rough Riders from some members of the team. I connected with the people for my son, and eventually found my way to Bryan Bloomquist, who runs the team. We had also checked out a NJ league, but we were so impressed with the team spirit and the "can do" attitude of the coaches and management of the Roughriders team, that we signed up immediately. Even though we live in NJ, we come out every Saturday to Beth Page to practice or play a game. Yeah, LI Sled Hockey!!

I joined the team a few months ago and it's been great! I have not really had many opportunities to play competitive sports. Sled hockey was always a sport I wanted to play. Now, the Roughriders team has given me that opportunity...Thanks Bryan for being such an excellent coach!!!
B. Schmidt #27

This is a wonderful organization for disabled people of all ages to participate in the exciting game of ice hockey. All are welcomed to have fun, compete and experience a team sport. All profits go to the team in supplying what is required to play ice hockey, as well as ice time, games, and their annual summer tournament.

I have been associated with the Roughriders organization for over 20 years. I truly feel they are one of the best run organizations for athletes handicapped or able bodied you could ever wish for. From top to bottom they do their best to make sure everyone feels welcome regardless of athletic ability. While not always easy they make the impossible seem possible. Seeing some of our players overcome their fears getting on the ice, to becoming an important member of our team is an inspiration few could match. I wish our hockey family the best until we meet again on the ice come this fall. If your thinking about joining our team feel free to come down and see a practice first hand, I'm sure you to will be inspired as I was when I joined the Roughriders many years ago. Thanks Coach Brian for making this all possible, you are truly irreplaceable. Eric "11" Strez

Inspiration is the word that comes to mind when thinking of this amazing team of athletes. Watching them play this game makes you realize that, when it comes to sports, disabilities are left at the door. The comradery of the team is evident and the coaching staff becomes alive when their team takes the ice. The fact that they win big games is just a piece of it, but the smiles on their faces is the real win. Best nonprofit ever.

Watching these amazing disabled athletes enjoy themselves playing the sport they love is heart warming. Come on down to see such special athletes gaining confidence and keeping fit in a warm but competitive environment. We are proud of these players and continue to support the efforts of Mr. Blomquist. The rough riders are inspirational and need our continued support especially when you see their smiles through their facemasks.

It is a true honor to volunteer for such an amazing organization. These athletes are striving through this program. I am an ice hockey goalie. When I volunteered I hung out near the goalie one night and he told me how was so depressed he didn't want to live. after finding the LI sled hockey team he has become an inspired athlete and loves the game again. This organization promotes camaraderie and confidence. It supplies exercise & competitive well being. What an hour to share the ice with such heroes who get to play the game they love. Go Rough Riders!!!

The first time that I was able to see them in action was very inspiring. The money that goes to this organization is 100% for the handicapped. There ARE NO FRILLS. This particular sport takes any and all handicapped whether it be physically or mentally challenged. They learn to act as a team and compete against other teams in this country and in Canada. All proceeds go for their equipment and travel.

This is a worth while organization to support. ALL funds go directly to the program. The participants get all their equipment & travel supplied. This takes the pressure off the members and families. This allows these physically challenged athletes to enjoy the sport.

Long Island sled hockey is a wonderful opportunity for athletes who are differently abled to play, compete and belong as members of a team. The smile on their faces says it all. Please support this extremely worthwhile program.

The LONG ISLAND SLED HOCKEY team offers a great program to people from the Long Island NY area. In addition, they are a great partner and competitor with other Sledge Hockey Clubs in the U.S. and Canada! Our Ottawa-based teams are very happy to have been associated with them for about 10 years as we share much of the same values and goals.

Not only does The Long Island Rough Rider Sled Hockey Program offer a healthy alternative for the disabled athlete but through the hard work and effort of the program's athletes and coaches as well as tremendous community and fan support this program has become a premier sled hockey program winning tournaments both nationally and abroad. Watching the growth of this program from its infancy to where it is today has been a joy. There seems to be no limit to Long Island Sled Hockey's future growth!

I enjoyed reviewing the work of your organization online and commend you for all the good deeds you are performing.

The Long Island Rough Riders Sled Hockey Organization has been one of the most amazing programs I have ever had the honor of being a part of. Right from the start, they took me in and treated me like one of their own. Being a part of this team is about much more than simply playing hockey, it's about being a part of a family that never gives up and helps one another through thick and thin. Throughout the years I have been with the Rough Riders, I have had the blessing of watching this family grow to include many more players and change lives for the better. I know it has changed mine, and I can't thank those who have made this possible enough.

My daughter plays with the Long Island Rough Riders and absolutely loves it! The team is like her second family and she couldn't live without them!

The Long Island Sled Hockey Organization has given me so much in the past 5 years and in return has only asked for me to have fun when I am out on the ice, or playing in the many tournaments they take us to in the United States and Canada. Their selfless devotion to the players and parents are easily witnessed by anyone coming to watch or play for the first time. I have never seen them turn away anyone asking to play this great sport, they only ask how can we get you on the ice? Since I have been involved with the organization they have given me everything to succeed at being a sled hockey player not just the equipment but most importantly the support that you can only get from a family.

This is a wonderful program and sport for the differently -abled athlete. It's always exciting to attend a game and watch the sportsmanship and skill of these athletes. It takes tremendous dedication and heart to achieve what the Rough Riders has over the years! I can't say enough good things about the organization and the confidence and joy it brings to everyone involved. It truly has had such a big impact on everyone!

Not only has LISH given me the chance to play hockey like my able bodied peers but it has also helped shape me to be the person I am today. By being a member of the team for 10+ years, I have learned so much about acceptance, determination, and teamwork. I was only 10 years old when I discovered the program and was so excited that I found a sport that I could really compete in and maybe excel in. Now I attend the University of New Hampshire and play on their nationally ranked sled hockey team and also played for the United States Junior National Team during the 2010-2011 season. Without LISH, I would not have been able to do either of these things. LISH has given me and continues to give me the tools needed to see how far I can go in this sport, including ice time and new equipment. I am so grateful for LISH and all it has done for me.

What a great organization! Bryan Blomquist and his players are dedicated to the sport and to every differently-abled athlete they meet--teamwork that extends far beyond their time together on the ice.

The kids are dedicated to their team, and work very hard. They learn to participate as athletes strengthening their bodies, and make strong friendships. They learn to trust team mates and have fun while playing a sport.

LI Sled Hockey is terrific organization with a long rich history of helping the differently-abled athletes reach their full potential, instilling pride, determination and sense of team to a group of very talented sled hockey players. The staff have hearts bigger than themselves.

Great organization from top to bottom. All are welcome both disabled and able body athletes. Competitive without being exclusive. Pass the word to any and all friends looking for something to do out of the ordinary. I'm sure if you help out you will get more out of your experience than you could ever put in.
See You at Practice,
ERIC STREZENEC

I have been attending fund raisers for LI Sled Hockey for 17 years and I am always impressed with the dedication and concern of the volunteers and staff. Having seen this team in action on the ice, it is hard to believe that any of the players are at all physically or mentally challenged. LI Sled Hockey is to be highly commended for providing an opportunity for these players to not only play a sport, but to travel with the team for tournaments.

This is an incredible organization. The athletes enjoy playing and competing. LI Sled Hockey provides an opportunity that can be found no where else. See a game if you can - you will be an instant fan. Can't say enough about Bryan Bloomquist and his fellow volunteers. Keep up the great work!!

It has been a truly wonderful experience to be a small part of this organization. The commitment of the athlete's, parents, and coach's is something you have to see to believe. They have over the years developed into a fine tuned machine. They offer a chance for people with disabilities to be envolved in something that takes them away when they are on the ice or just being a part of a team. They have a tireless leader and coach, whose fund raising soley supports this wonderful progam.

My son plays with the roughriders and he loves it. He can not play regular hockey so this organization has been fantastic thank you

Long Island Sled Hockey is an amazing organization. It is great to see all the athletes work together as they are successful on the ice. It's wonderful to see an organization that brings a community together.

It is wonderful to see how much these athletes enjoy participating with other athletes with disabilities and how much effort they make just to be involved. All the volunteers who make this possible deserve the highest praise for their unselfish giving of their time. A truly exceptional organization.

I am a supporter of the LI sled hockey league and the Ruff Riders. It is an amazing organization!

Fantastic organization! Truly in a league of their own. Awesome to see the smiles and fun being had by all who play.

My son has been a part of this program for 11 years now and it has changed our lives. The people that are involved are phenomenal. He has been disabled from birth and the roughriders allows him to play the game he loves. We have became a family with these people and we have spent some good times along the way. Thank you for everything Bryan.

I have been part of this program for 2 yrs. I love the fact i get to be with other disabled athletes and the therapeutic exercise it gives me GREAT PROGRAM! IM truley Blessed To Be A Part Of It THANK YOU! LISH

My son has been a differently abled athele on this team for 10 years. It has given him comraderie and support and an opportunity to participate in sports. Even though it is my son who is part of the team ,as a parent I know I am also not alone

My son Chris and I have been part of this program for over 15 yrs. the reward of knowing your son or daughter can achieve much like any other athlete can achieve is priceless . This program not only gives my son Chris a way to play a sport he loves, but also enhances his socialization with his peers. Much credit to Long Island Sled. Hockey and its founders, for without them we would not have a pride in our young men and women that we have today. Larry g

This is a super group of kids who overcome their disabilities and love to compete at the highest level. Sled hockey gives them the opportunity that they otherwise would not have. It is wonderful to see the positive influence that it has on their lives

This. Organization is wonderful group of people! I have enjoyed watching the youth, young adults , and adults play this game. They are truly gifted people!,

Long Island Sled Hockey is a wonderful organization playing a great sport. It allows both physically and mentally challenged people to play hockey and be competive in tournaments. Anyone watching these athelets during a game will see the hard work and determination they exhibit.

Long Island Sled Hockey is an organization dedicated to providing an athletic, competitive experience to those who are mentally or physically handicapped. The program has fielded a medal winning sled hockey team for the past several seasons, competing successfully on an international level including hosting an annual international invitational tournament. The entire program is operated by unpaid volunteers, mostly parents or other relatives of participants and concerned friends of the program. These people serve tirelessly and with great sacrifice to present participants with the opportunity to be a part of organized sports and to know the satisfaction of competing, both on an individual and team level, as able athletes do. Older team members also serve as mentors, role models and real-life touchstones for the younger and novice members working on learning and improving not only hockey skills but social and relationship skills, as well. For many team members, Long Island Sled Hockey is the first, if not only, such experience afforded to them. The success and true value of the program is easily recognizable by the dedication of the participants and the smiles that jump to their faces at the mere mention of the sport and "their" team.

I first was introduced to Long Island Sled Hockey around 6 years ago and I was extremely impressed with the amount of support they receive from the local community. There are so many people who dedicate their time to assist and support this great organization and just seeing it once is enough to pull you in and want to be part of this family. Yes, I called it a family because that is exactly how we act, everything that needs to get done just gets done with no questions or bickering, we all work together to reach any goal we set because it is all done for the members of which this organization was founded for.

There are handicapped and able-bodied people members from all ages in this organization and to see them on the ice is a must see experience, and if you don’t I feel you are truly missing something in life. They are out there playing with such great joy and they are so competitive you would know they are playing with any sort of handicap and truth be told they always win the games we play against people who do not have a handicap because this is what sets them aside from everyone else, this is their time and no one will ever beat them at it.

You should make time and visit one of the games, you will be amazed.

Over the summer I took a quick trip to Long Island to watch my cousin Tommy's sled hockey game at the 8th Annual RoughRiders Invitational Tournament. Tommy plays for the Rough Riders through Long Island Sled Hockey, an organization that supports sportsmanship and athleticism for mentally and physically handicapped youth and adults. Tommy has been playing for years, and his mom, my Aunt Sheila, is an able-bodied member of the team, acting as a pusher, assisting players who cannot maneuver their sleds alone.

​Sled hockey, if you have never experienced a game, is quite something. The speed at which the players move themselves and a large sled across the ice, solely with their upper body strength, is unbelievably impressive. Their shots towards and into the net have such force, that I ducked a few times at the crack of a stray one against the glass. It's clear by the amazing effort the players put into each game that they take great pride in the sport. Long Island Sled Hockey provides so many youth and adults with an opportunity to experience team camaraderie and be athletes, something that they many may have not has without participation in the organization.

My brother is a member of the team and always has fun playing on the team and traveling to different tournaments. This is a great organization that instills confidence and comradiere amongst the team members. Although winning is important Brian instills the team approach across the board and teaches the members the importance of teams not only on the ice but in life and that when we work together anything can be accomplished.

After 3 grueling years fighting off cancer and the loss of my leg, the farthest thing from my mind was ever getting back on the ice to compete again. Thank God for Brian, Frank and the Roughriders organization. I've since gotton back on the ice and competed once again. Believe me, sled hockey is much more demanding than stand up hockey ever was. Our team is an everchanging special family that my own four children have joined and caught the Roughrider fever. If you have any questions how great this organization is, just come out on tues or sat to watch the team play. You will be inspired as much as I am every time I have the priviledge to take the ice with these amazing athletes. There is no can't on this team, only to try and succeed!

This is the most amazing team I have ever had the privilege of watching. My nephew is physically disabled and unable to play all sports. It was so heartbreaking to see him watch other children play sports he was unable to participate in. Then my sister and brother in law found the rough riders. Being on this team has given my nephew the opportunity to play sports and be a part of a team. I am amazed by everyone on this team. I as a physically able person could not play this sport the way they all do. I love watching them play. I love that the coaches treat the members of the team as if they do not have a disability. They push them and encourage them to do their best. Thank you to Bryan, the team members, volunteers and the family and friends that come out to support this amazing team of individuals. Most of all...Thank you for giving my nephew the opportunity to play a sport he may otherwise have not been able to play!! With love and admiration Lisa KJ's proud aunt!

We have know Bryan Blomquist and his family for many years. This organization that he heads is wonderful! This group spends so much of thier personal time giving these wonderful kids the chance to play ice hockey. It is a truely amazing organization. We hope you consider giving this team the reward they deserve! Sincerely, Krista and Thomas Clancy

It is so hard to describe Long Island Sled Hockey and it's impact on the people involved without seeing it firsthand. This is truely a wonderful organization allowing physically and mentally challenged kids to be a part of a team and have a sense of comradery and sportsmanship. Going to the games in person is almost as if you're attending an NHL game with all of the screams and cheering from the fans in the stands. Bryan Blomquist, who runs the LI Rough Riders is the heart behind the organization and puts a tremendous amount of time into his team and this shows in the spirit of each player on the team, their opponents and the fans. The Long Island Sled Hockey team, the Rough Riders should certainly be considered for your award as it has changed the lives of many people; children and adults alike. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, Tara Baglietto

my son has been playing sled hockey for 7 years with li sled hockey. he is mentally and physically chalanged. sled hockey gives him the oppurtinity to be a part of the team that he can compete in thanks to all the supporters and coaches!!!

I am hearing Impaired. I startes sled Hockey two years ago. I love the sport.I like been part of the group. I learned new skills and made new friends. Everyone helps each other. My hockey team stay strong and keep focus.

Five Stars just is not enough. This is a game changer for both Physically and mentally handicapped athletes. No, its much more than that. Visit their website, attend a game, You will Cheer, cry, be amazed. all within 60 minutes Seriously, this is like nothing you have ever seen. No words can explain. You think professional Hockey is exciting? You think the NY Ranger Coaching Staff is dedicated ( they get paid for their dedication) Coach Blomquist gets paid in smiles. Miles of smiles. You can not believe this.

I have been a spectator at the games particpated by these disabled players and have been awestruck with the sense of accomplishment that they feel as a result of this program. It gives the disabled person an opportunity to compete on a level playing field with both abled bodies as well as disabled. And it provides an enjoyable spectator sport. Kudos to the coaches. players and parents!