St. Paul, MN – November 1, 2021 – Minnesota Hockey today announced Minnesota Diversified Hockey as the new name for its programs for individuals with disabilities, formerly referred to as disabled hockey programs. Minnesota Diversified Hockey, presented by UBS Financial, is proud to be the first hockey program in the country for people of all abilities to focus on the person first, both in practice and now in its new name.

“I am thrilled to be a part of this movement to recognize the importance of seeing our athletes as people first,” said Minnesota Diversified Hockey Director, Antonia Gillen. “We have overwhelmingly heard from our participants that names and labels matter, and first and foremost, they are athletes and hockey players. In Minnesota, hockey is truly for everyone.”

Minnesota Diversified Hockey enables athletes to participate with other skaters with similar interests and abilities in the disciplines of: Special Hockey, Sled Hockey, Blind Hockey and Warrior Hockey. Each of these programs incorporate elements that are unlike the typical sport of hockey, but at their core, they are designed to ensure hockey is accessible for everybody:

• Providing adaptive equipment to allow individuals with physical disabilities the opportunity to play the sport. 
• Modifying rules to allow individuals with intellectual disabilities the ability to participate with their peers.
• Providing an environment where veterans can play the game they love while joining a supportive community.  

“Minnesota Hockey is excited to embrace a new name, endorsed by the participants, that highlights the members of Minnesota Diversified Hockey as the incredible hockey players and athletes they are,” said Minnesota Hockey President Steve Oleheiser. “We are always striving to make everyone who plays hockey feel welcome and included, and we believe this name change is another step forward in achieving that goal.”

Minnesota Diversified Hockey programs are affiliates of USA Hockey and provide a distinct and special hockey experience for over 500 athletes. Minnesota Diversified Hockey would like to thank its generous partners including the Minnesota Wild, Hendrickson Foundation, Prairie Island Indian Community and UBS Financial for their on-going support.