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January 18, 2006

Youth team receives sponsorship from NY Rangers, health foundation

The Woodbridge Township youth sled hockey team is not yet at the NHL level, but starting Sunday they will be dressing like it.

The former Woodbridge Warriors have received a sponsorship from the New York Rangers and United Spinal Association, Mayor Frank G. Pelzman has announced. As of this Sunday, the Warriors will sport a new name: the United Spinal Rangers.

United Spinal Rangers will face off against Wings of Steel this Sunday, Jan. 22 at 9:10 a.m. at Woodbridge Community Center, 600 Main Street, Woodbridge.

Sled hockey was first developed in Norway for physically- and developmentally-challenged youth. Athletes sit on sleds made of tubular framing supported by metal skate blades. The sled is propelled by picks that are also used to shoot and pass the puck. In recent years, the popularity of the sport has grown internationally.

“We are thrilled that the United Spinal Association and the New York Rangers have reached out to offer our young athletes this opportunity,” says Mayor Pelzman.

The team of 10- to 18-year-olds will receive Rangers uniforms and tickets to NHL Rangers games, says John Eberhardt, Woodbridge Township Parks & Recreation Director. “Most importantly, the affiliation with a pro hockey franchise will be an extra source of pride and motivation.”

Not that these youngsters aren’t already fully enthused about their sport. Last year five Woodbridge Warriors members played on two all-star sled hockey teams that won gold medals at the annual Windsor Classic Indoor Games for the Physically Disabledin Ontario, Canada.

“ Woodbridge is home to a contingent of truly world-class athletes,” says Mayor Pelzman. “These young men overcame some serious international competition by exhibiting teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship.”

The United Spinal Rangers are managed by Angela Fee. Kevin Fee serves as head coach and offensive coach, and John Eberhardt is the team’s defensive coach.

For information about the United Spinal Association and its sponsorship of the team, contact Jennifer M. Rodríguez at (718) 803-3782, ext. 282.

Those interested in joining or volunteering in the Woodbridge Township sled hockey program should call the (732) 596-4045.