The 2026 Milan Winter Paralympics occurred between 6 March and 15 March. These Winter Paralympic games saw historic events such as the first mixed doubles wheelchair curling event, record attendance for a para ice hockey crowd at 11,500 for the gold medal final between the U.S. and Canada, the most athletes of a Winter Paralympics event at 611, and so much more. This was action-packed, nine days of the world’s best in winter sports : an inaugural mixed doubles wheelchair curling event, snowboarding, alpine skiing, para ice hockey, biathlon, and cross-country skiing.
Eight countries were playing for a chance to win a gold medal, with the last gold medal winner being Team USA in 2022. With a strong program, Team USA were aiming for a 5th consecutive gold medal in the Winter Paralympics. One of these qualifying teams during this tournament is a young and developing program in Team Japan. During these games, they faced another competitive team in Slovakia on 10 March : final score of 5-1, Slovakia. These two would meet again on 14 March in the classification final to see who would finish #7 in the Winter Paralympics.
With no medal at stake, Slovakia and Japan took the ice for what might have seemed like a minor classification game — but what followed was one of the most emotional contests of the Winter Paralympics.
During the 1st period of play, Slovakia had possession of the puck throughout, and showed a more aggressive style of play. The second period was far more evenly contested, with Team Japan gaining possession of the puck and even more collisions, more hits, and speed. This was especially evident with the two powerplays they had occurred. Team Japan came close to scoring with this momentum they carried, but simply couldn’t connect to the net. The second period still ended 0-0 for each side.
The 3rd period saw even more intensity from both sides. Neither wanted to go down without a fight. Penalties were called for both sides : tripping, roughing, and holding. With only 5 minutes left of play and with now 5 penalties, there was a strong possibility that this game would go into overtime, as there was still no score. The physical play of both sides increased as the game went on, with no signs of letting up from either side. As the intensity rose, so did the crowd – growing louder with every shift. You could feel the excitement in the air. With just 91 seconds left of regular playing time in the 3rd period, we saw our first, and only goal of the game from Slovakia team captain, Martin Joppa.
The goalkeeper of Team Japan, Wataru Horie was crushed, and even through his goalie mask, you could see the look of devastation on his face. The game finished 1-0 Slovakia, with them finishing in rank #7 and Japan finishing #8 in these Winter Paralympic games.
When the game came to a close, there was a lot of heart, passion, and respect pouring from both sides of the ice. They both shook hands on the ice with each other, and with the coaches and staff members of the opposing side. Team Japan would gracefully bow in front of the crowd, to a thunderous and roaring applause. They showed great promise in future tournaments, as 20-year-old player Itsuki Ito displayed great defense throughout the game.
What was also notable was #13 of Team Japan, Mamoru Yoshikawa, was crying on the ice, and was consoled and hugged by the assistant coach. This was heart-breaking to watch, to see a player crying on the ice. This was especially difficult to see, because this may have been Yoshikawa’s last Paralympic games to compete in. The silence of the crowd was present.
This game showed a lot of heart from both teams, and the competitive nature of both teams showed just how much this game mattered. Both teams knew they were not playing for a medal, but instead for a chance to finish these Winter Paralympics intact. With a chance to finish in 7th place, either team would at least have a chance to end the tournament with a win, and could thus help the para ice hockey programs of their home countries.
To close these games, China won the bronze medal, Canada earned silver, and Team USA won the gold medal for the 5th consecutive time. In a tournament defined by medals, this game was a reminder that some of the most meaningful moments in sport can occur when a podium is not on the line. Both Team Slovakia and Team Japan show much promise in their young programs, with four years to increase their talent for the next Winter Paralympic games of 2030.
About the Author
Matthew Valerie is a researcher and writer with a focus on international sports culture and visual design. A graduate of St. Edward’s University, he is particularly interested in the intersection of athlete engagement and the global impact of the Paralympic movement. He is proficient in multiple languages, including French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian, and is currently studying the languages of the Nordic regions.