By Hockey Saskatchewan

REGINA Sask. – Hockey Saskatchewan is thrilled to announce the launch of its new Sask First Para Program, a high-performance initiative dedicated to honing the skills of both able and non-able-bodied athletes.

This inaugural program is an extension of the renowned Sask First Program, which has been fielding Team Saskatchewan players – since its inception in 1988 – to represent the province in Western Canadian and National competitions.

The Sask First Para Program is set to commence in the 2023-24 season, and it comes with a commitment to inclusivity, as it is open to athletes of all genders, abilities, and backgrounds.

“Our para hockey program will officially commence with the first-ever provincial camp held in Outlook, Sask., on December 17, 2023. This selection process ensures participants from every corner of the province have the opportunity to compete and gain invaluable exposure to high-level para hockey,” said Joel Houseman, Director of Operations of Sask First. “To embark on this pioneering journey with us, we invite all prospective players and coaches to register.”

SASK FIRST PARA PROGRAM – CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Following this December camp, attendees will be selected to proudly represent the province as Team Saskatchewan at the national championship from May 16 to 19, 2024, in Port Colborne, Ont.

The Sask First Para Program will also serve as the gateway to Hockey Canada's National Para Team (NPT). The NPT is reserved for athletes with lower-body disabilities and offers the potential to represent Team Canada on the international stage.

In another exciting first, Hockey Saskatchewan is extending an invitation to officials who are interested in being at the forefront of para hockey's development in the province. This opportunity offers referees and linespersons a chance to immerse themselves via the Sask First Para Program, learning the nuances of officiating these unique games and gaining invaluable insights.

This initiative through Sask First Para Program offers comprehensive training and evaluation, aiming not only to expand the pool of qualified officials for para hockey but also to provide a platform to enhance their skills and potentially advance to the highest level. Officials ready to take on this exciting challenge are invited to register by clicking HERE.

Hockey Saskatchewan is excited about this significant step in our mission to Lead, Develop, and Promote Positive Hockey Experiences for All.

For more information and updates on the Sask First Para Program, please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

About SASK FIRST

The Sask First Program, introduced by Hockey Saskatchewan in 1988, has been a source of immense pride and achievement in our province. This high-performance initiative was crafted with the dual goal of enhancing the game's comprehension and nurturing the growth of exceptional players, coaches, trainers, officials, and administrators. It empowers participants, enriching them as individuals, fostering self-satisfaction, and enhancing their enjoyment within the hockey community.

About HOCKEY SASKATCHEWAN

Hockey Saskatchewan was established in 1912 and is the governing body for organized hockey in the province of Saskatchewan. With a mission to lead, develop and promote positive hockey experiences, Hockey Saskatchewan encourages competition at all levels – from recreational to high performance. Hockey Saskatchewan has grown through the years and is Saskatchewan’s largest sports organization with over 40,000 members comprised of players, coaches, and officials. For more information, please visit www.hockeysask.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.