Inside the National Para Ice Hockey Development Camp: A Journey of Determination, Camaraderie, and Elite Athleticism

The National Para Ice Hockey Development Camp at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium was more than just a training camp; it was a testament to the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

With 31 athletes from across Australia vying for a coveted spot in the Australian Team for the C Pool competition in Thailand this November, the stakes were high. These athletes knew that each drill, each sprint, and every shot could determine their future in the sport they love.

As the selection announcement looms, each participant is left in a state of anticipation, waiting to hear if their name will be called. But beyond the competition, the camp served as a crucible where friendships were forged, resilience was tested, and each player discovered new depths of their capabilities.

From Dawn to Dusk: The Intensity of Elite Training

The days at the camp were as gruelling as they were rewarding. Starting at 5:30 am, the athletes had little time to waste. By 7 am, they were already on the ice for their first session of the day.

The rigorous schedule didn’t stop there. Following their initial on-ice training, the athletes participated in off-ice training sessions and gym workouts designed to push their physical and mental limits. By the time they returned to the ice for a second intense session, which included speed and agility timed trials and various drills, the day was far from over. The final off-ice session didn’t conclude until 5 pm, marking the end of a 12-hour day.

The weekend brought a new challenge: game time. On Saturday, two matches tested the endurance and strategic skills developed throughout the week. By Sunday’s game, physical exhaustion was evident, but the athletes’ determination shone brighter. Despite the fatigue, each player pushed through, demonstrating the spirit of elite athletes who know no limits.

The games were a showcase of tactical play and grit, with the first two matches ending in scoreless ties. The last game of the camp, however, was where the intensity peaked. With the score tied at 0-0, the final two minutes saw the Green team deliver a breath-taking goal, securing the camp’s only score and a thrilling victory. The White team, self-dubbed the “White Knights,” had an intense chant that echoed through the stadium but, despite their spirited efforts, could not secure the winning goal.

Standout Moments and Fierce Friendships

The camp wasn’t just about training and competition; it was also a celebration of community and support. The presence of Newcastle Northstars fans added an extra layer of motivation for the Northstar players attending the camp. Hearing the cheers and feeling the support from the stands was an incredible highlight, providing a boost that every player could feel.

Among the standout players, there were several moments that captured the essence of the camp. Ashlee Morton, reflecting on her experience, shared, “I accidentally became involved in para ice hockey—I wasn’t looking for a new sport at the time, but after that first go on the ice, I was hooked! The people involved, the camaraderie, the rush you get from being on the ice—it’s addictive.”

Her words capture the spirit that pervaded the camp, where every athlete pushed themselves beyond their limits, driven by a deep love for the sport.

When asked about the most memorable moment of the camp, Bryan Stitfall recalled, “Most memorable moment was probably when Marty started the hype-up chant song in the change rooms. Getting the whole team amped up felt great, to be a part of the team and having the chance to push myself to possibly be on an Australian team.”

Moments like these highlight the unity and shared purpose that define para ice hockey, fostering a sense of belonging that goes beyond individual performance.

Veteran Paralympian Liesl Tesch, with Paralympic medals in both basketball and sailing, also shared her newfound passion for the sport: “As a seven-time Paralympian, I have absolutely fallen in love with the sport of Para Ice Hockey! It’s so exciting to be out on the ice with my fantastic teammates and a massive smile on my face, learning as much as I can every single training session.” Her enthusiasm was palpable, underscoring the joy and excitement that para ice hockey brings to athletes from diverse sporting backgrounds.

Celebrating Excellence: Camp Awards

The camp concluded with the presentation of awards to recognise the outstanding efforts and talents showcased throughout the week.

Thomas Laing from NSW was honoured as the Most Improved Player, demonstrating significant progress and commitment to his development. In the Showcase Series, Michael McDonald from WA took home the title of Most Valuable Forward, while Marty Jackson from VIC was named Most Valuable Defence. Darren Peacock from SA was recognised as the Most Valuable Goalkeeper, reflecting his exceptional skills and contributions between the posts.

A Community Effort: Growing the Sport

The camp also sparked conversations about the future of para ice hockey in Australia and the role the public can play in supporting its growth.

Head Coach Simon Holmes highlighted the sport’s unique appeal: “Para Ice Hockey is a fast, highly skilled team sport that is growing on the world stage. It combines attributes and shares many similarities to Wheelchair Basketball and Rugby on ice … how awesome and exciting is that! The improvement over the last 12 months is quite noticeable and is in part what motivates our efforts.

“I am the third generation of ice sports nuts and I love it. Growing up I had fantastic people share their knowledge and experience with me, which I am grateful to pass forward through coaching. Para Ice Hockey is growing in Australia. Whilst you need to classify as a para athlete to participate in the National Development Program and Team, no such restrictions exist within the local Para Ice Hockey communities … it is for anyone that wants to get in a sled and play. It is worth the effort!”

Morton also emphasised the importance of community involvement: “Get involved and take an interest! Watch a game, come to a come-and-try day (able-bodied people are welcome), tell your friends, share our events, etc., just spread the word so more people hear about the sport and want to be involved.”

Echoing this sentiment, Tesch added, “If you know anyone who might be interested in trying ice hockey—even if it’s just for fun—please connect them to our growing Para Ice Hockey family around Australia. We would love your help to build an Aussie Para Ice Hockey team to compete in future Winter Paralympic Games.”

These calls to action are a reminder that growing the sport is a collective effort, and every bit of support counts.

A Personal Perspective: Grit, Determination, and Unyielding Passion

As a player and a writer for Hockey Hype Australia covering this camp, I had the unique opportunity to experience both the highs and lows from a dual perspective. Being a rookie player on the White Knights team, which came up short in the final game, was an invaluable learning experience.

Having only been playing para ice hockey for ten months, I was eager to watch and learn from the more experienced players around me. Their skill, determination, and strategic play were amazing, and it motivated me to push my own limits.

Each morning, as I laced up my skates at the crack of dawn, I was reminded of the resilience and passion that drives us all. The games were a true test of our limits. By the last match, exhaustion had set in, but there was an unspoken agreement among all of us to push through, to dig deeper than ever before. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about proving to ourselves that we belonged on that ice, that we had earned our place among the best.

Witnessing the final goal by the Green team, I felt a surge of pride—not just for the team, but for everyone who had poured their heart into this camp. As the final whistle blew and the cheers erupted, I realised that regardless of the outcome of being selected or not for Thailand, each of us had already won something far more valuable: the respect of our peers and the affirmation of our abilities.

As we await the selection results, I carry forward the memories of this camp—the early mornings, the tough drills, the shared laughs, and the friendships forged in ice and sweat. This experience has reaffirmed my belief in the power of sport to bring people together, to challenge us, and to push us beyond our perceived limits. The journey has just begun, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.

Support our Para Ice Hockey Team

To represent Australia in ice hockey at the World Championships, all players are required to fund their participation. The World Para Ice Hockey Championships are held annually, providing an opportunity for our talented players to represent Australia on the international stage. Australia aims to send a Para National Team to the World Championships in 2024, and your support can make this possible. Ice hockey may be a niche sport in Australia, but it consistently exceeds expectations on the world stage.

Every donation is 100% tax deductible and directly supports our athletes as they strive for excellence. To contribute and help build the future of para ice hockey in Australia, please visit Ice Hockey Australia’s National Para Program. Your support can make a world of difference!