Hi Craig,

Well, I am one of those parents that did not agree with AB's being on a Sled Team. Just ask Dale Wise!  Anyway, that is the rule in our youth league and I certainly was part of the decision. Now, that being said, I have seen  my 19 year old  AB hockey player who plays with the PA CenterPedes (The Bugs) enjoy his time on the sled. Our younger son Keith has played sled hockey for over 7 seven years and loved the fact that he was playing his big brother's sport in his own way. With the start of the Bug Team and Kenny being a part of it, I see exactly what you are saying. Kenny loves the fact that he is on the ice with all the other players that he grew up with as a sled hockey pusher and brother.  (Well, we all know that Doyle has not totally grown up) lol. But, Kenny truly enjoys the challenge of sled and players like Doyle.  Unfortunately, he is playing Junior level AB hockey and is missing most of the time with the Bugs this season, but he truly likes doing both. Anyway, I had to admit this to Dale last year when we were coming to Mass and both my boys were playing!!

As far as the youth, I am still torn, this season would be a lot easier if we were able to use ABs. We have three out for medical reasons and after January, one of our youth will not be able to play because of the rule that was made about the Paralympic players, so it sure is a hardship. But, I also know that we are the local team and that some of our players are never going to be able to move up because of their disability. So, they need their spot where they have plenty of ice time and are not being put aside for a AB who is better then them. Our games are real and very competitive, but win or loss, they know that they did it themselves as a team. Do not get me wrong, we are parents that have our disabled son in regular classes, in fact he is in a Catholic school. That is where his brother went and so should he. We know that he can be a productive adult and expect him to be. But, then I feel different when it comes to youth sled, I just do not know what to think.  

Anyway, just thought I would share my opinion and experience with you.   Have a Great Thanksgiving and we hope to see everyone if Kenny is free to play with the Bugs one of these weekends.  

Kathy

Kathy L. Shelton
Vineland Sled Stars
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/sledstars/
856-358-3284
Fax 856-358-0891

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