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WATCH: Red Deer students try sledge hockey and skating

Naomi Schmitt says she didn’t mind falling over while playing sledge hockey because it was a lot of fun trying out a new sport this week.

Naomi Schmitt says she didn’t mind falling over while playing sledge hockey because it was a lot of fun trying out a new sport this week.

The Grade 4 student at École Barrie Wilson Elementary School, was one of the nearly 500, who tried sledge hockey at the school this week.

Chris Good, École Barrie Wilson Elementary School principal, said the school has partnered with Alberta Paralympic Sports Association to showcase the sport. The association donated about 30 sledges to the school for a week so students can try sledge hockey and skating.

Good said the experience lets students try something different and also puts them outside of their comfort zones.

“We also have some students where skating could be difficult for them so this is their chance to be the leaders in the class as well,” he said.

The program lets kids experience what people with disabilities might experience when they’re skating or playing hockey.

Schmitt, who also plays regular hockey, said she had fun working with her arms.

“Your arms have to be really strong because you mostly depend on your arms.”



mamta.lulla@reddeeradvocate.com

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Grade 4 student Naomi Schmitt tried sledge hockey for the first time this week at École Barrie Wilson Elementary School. Photo by Mamta Lulla/Advocate staff
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Grade 4 students Taylor McCallum (left) and Kaylee Edel tried sledge hockey on Wednesday at École Barrie Wilson Elementary School. Photo by Mamta Lulla/Advocate staff
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École Barrie Wilson Elementary School principal, Chris Good, said close to 500 students tried sledge hockey at the school this week. Photo by Mamta Lulla/Advocate staff
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Grade 4 student Naomi Schmitt tried sledge hockey for the first time this week at École Barrie Wilson Elementary School. Photo by Mamta Lulla/Advocate staff