"Being on the Ice Makes Me Feel Free"

Reporter Caitlin Moran of the Gazette visited the festival and took time to watch several games and talk with coaches, parents, and player.  Her article profiles the host team of the 6th Annual USA Hockey Disabled Festival, the Washington Ice Dogs. Founded 10 years ago, the Ice Dogs are one of the top teams in the American Special Hockey Association.

Because of the sensory nature of the sport, it is especially beneficial to children with autism, said festival director and Ice Dogs founder Mike Hickey. Parents told Moran that participating in special hockey has allowed children to feel included and part of something beyond a disability. One of the Ice Dogs players, Brian Howell, said, "Just being on the ice makes me feel free."

Read "Hockey Festival Ready to Score: Coaches, parents say hockey league players feel part of Something Beyond a Disability."