Charleston Warriors: camaraderie found on and off the ice

The Charleston Warriors are part of the Southeast Sled Hockey League, which was founded in 2016. The goal of the team is to provide an environment for enthusiasts and Veterans to support one another, as well as to offer an athletic outlet for those affected by various disabilities. The Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System has recommended the Charleston Warriors as a positive impact sports activity in conjunction with their Whole Health Program.

“Currently, our program includes 12 disabled Veterans,” said Lawrence Wood, Charleston Warriors team member. “Each member brings their own unique experiences and strengths, contributing to the supportive and dynamic environment we foster for this recreational therapy program. During the offseason, we aim to get on the ice about once a month to keep our skills sharp. When the season is in full swing, we generally practice two to three times a week, depending on ice availability and our team's finances. This regular practice helps us stay competitive and build strong team dynamics throughout the year.”

This philosophy of using athletics and sporting leagues to help disabled Veterans is supported by the Veterans Affairs Office of National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events.  This section of the VA provides Veterans with opportunities for health and healing through adaptive sports and therapeutic art programs. According to the VA, these specialized rehabilitation events optimize Veterans’ independence, community engagement, well-being, and quality of life. The programs are built on clinical expertise within VA, with essential support from Veteran Service Organizations, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and community partners.

According to the National Library of Medicine article, Acute influence of an adaptive sporting event on quality of life in veterans with disabilities; Veterans with disabilities can experience poor quality of life following military service due to the associated negative physical and psychological ramifications. However, participation in physical activities has shown to induce both physical and mental benefits and improve the quality of life of this population. Adaptive sports, an innovative approach to address the unique physical and psychosocial needs of Veterans with disabilities, are becoming more widely used as a rehabilitation tool to improve their quality of life.

“Our [sled hockey] season generally kicks off around October and wraps up by May or June,” Wood said. “We typically play about 15-18 games each year, including regional division games, which usually span two weekends, and various tournaments depending on the season. It’s a busy and exciting schedule that keeps us on our toes throughout the year!”

Sled hockey is like traditional hockey, but it allows for more accessibility for its players. Among a few other differences, players sit in specially designed sleds that rest on top of two hockey-skate blades. There are two sticks for each player, instead of one, and the sticks have metal picks on the butt end for players to propel themselves. Sled hockey provides opportunities for many types of disabilities at the local level for recreation/competition, all the way up to the National Sled Team that plays in World Championships and the Paralympics.

“If I had to choose my favorite part of the program, I’d highlight the sense of camaraderie and teamwork,” said Wood. “One of my fondest memories is winning, like most people, but taking the Southeast Sled Hockey Championship and the Hendrickson Foundation Championship in 2024. Seeing our hard work and progress culminate in those victories was incredibly rewarding. Moments like these highlight the growth of our program and inspire us to expand by adding a new team to accommodate the growing interest.”

Wood added that overall, the program has made great strides in allowing Veterans, and those struggling with disabilities in general, to feel a sense of freedom and accomplishment despite the challenges life or circumstance has given them. 

“My mental health has improved tremendously during my time on this team,” said Wood. “Sled hockey has been incredibly beneficial in managing my PTSD and other mental health challenges. The structured environment of the sport promotes both physical and mental well-being. The program offers a profound sense of purpose, along with a range of physical, psychological, and social benefits. Camaraderie is a key aspect of our program. It fosters a sense of unity and mutual support among players, creating a strong bond that extends beyond the ice. This shared experience helps build lasting friendships and a supportive community, making the program not just about the game, but about the people who play it and the connections they form. It's all about having fun with other Veterans.”

For more information on sled hockey, the Charleston Warriors, and their future schedule, please visit: https://www.charlestonwarriors.org/