While development camp focuses on how prospects can build their game, improve on and off the ice and be better prepared for the pros, the Carolina Hurricanes wanted to make sure that their players remembered the bigger picture too: perspective and giving back.
Wednesday was a special day at camp as the prospects were joined on the ice by members of Hurricanes Sled Hockey, a group of disabled athletes, both youth and adult, from across the state of North Carolina composed of active duty and veteran military, cancer survivors, amputees and those born with a congenital disorders, and Triangle Special Hockey Association, a group dedicated to the development and enjoyment of ice hockey for developmentally or physically challenged youth and adults.
Camp had started off with a few higher-intensity drills involving both the forward and defensive groups, but after around 30 minutes, the drills were called off and the special guests were called on.
Immediately, some of the prospects leaped on the opportunity to test out the hockey sleds and join in on some game action with a few Hurricanes Sled Hockey members.
...but it was a lot harder than they expected.
“I was curious, so that’s why I jumped on right away," said forward Josh Nadeau. "But it was so hard for the core and the arms and stuff."
“It was a lot of core, and it took a little bit to get the hang of it with getting the sticks in and stuff," said defenseman Scott Morrow. "But once you get the hang of it, it was easy to go straight ahead. But I still can’t really turn.”
It gave the prospects a lot more respect for the seasoned sled players in how effortless they made it seem.
“They had some really nice shots," said goaltender Patrik Hamrla. "I was surprised because it’s hard to read off their stick. Big respect for those guys. If you are this good in this with a disability and you can shoot it from both sides, it’s something really good.”
On the other side of the ice, the prospects played with and helped facilitate some game action for the Triangle Special Hockey Association players.
The prospects made sure to get involved and really embrace the opportunity and make it a special occasion not just for the guests joining them, but for themselves too.
“I remember when I was younger, going on the ice and seeing those prospects and the older guys," said forward Justin Robidas. "I remember being amazed by just skating with those guys, so to be able to contribute and do that with them was pretty special.”
“They love hockey as much as we do and just for them to be able to get on the ice and do that, it’s great for them,” Nadeau said.
“I really appreciate what the organization did by inviting them onto the ice with us," Hamrla said. "I think it was a really good experience.”
If interested in joining, donating or for further information on Hurricanes Sled Hockey or Triangle Special Hockey Association, please visit their websites or social media accounts.