Long Island Sled Hockey, Inc.
Where ability meets opportunity.
Sled hockey belongs to everyone. For over two decades the RoughRiders have been breaking barriers and redefining what's possible on the ice.
Our Mission
The Long Island Sled Hockey, Inc. (“LISH”) RoughRiders sled hockey team exists to provide inclusive, competitive and recreational hockey opportunities for individuals with physical, developmental and intellectual disabilities — fostering athletic excellence, personal growth, and community connection through the transformative power of an adaptive sport.
Who We Are
For over two decades, the LISH RoughRiders have been breaking barriers and redefining what is possible in recreational and competitive sled hockey. Our team welcomes all teen-to-adult players, genders, and ability levels, creating a diverse and dynamic community united by our shared passion for the game. Using specially designed sleds with blades and spike-tipped sticks, our athletes propel themselves — or are assisted by a “pusher” — across the ice with remarkable skill and determination, proving that hockey truly belongs to everyone.
Our Commitment to Accessibility
At the heart of our mission lies an unwavering commitment to accessibility and to overcoming the off-ice challenges our disabled athletes encounter every day. We believe financial barriers should never prevent a qualifying athlete from experiencing the joy and camaraderie of sled hockey. Every eligible player who wants to join is welcomed with open arms and — at no cost to them — is provided with equipment, training, and any expenses related to participation. This all-inclusive approach keeps sled hockey accessible to individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
What We Provide
Our comprehensive program supports our athletes, coaches, and volunteers at every step.
Adaptive gear & sleds
Fully customized adaptive hockey gear and a sled for every player.
Professional coaching
Experienced coaching and skill development at every ability level.
Ice time
Regular practice time at local ice rinks throughout the season.
Tournament travel
Adaptive transportation to tournaments and competitions.
Lodging & meals
Lodging and meal expenses covered during tournament travel.
At no cost to athletes
Every eligible player is welcomed — no one is turned away for inability to pay.
Competitive Excellence
The RoughRiders compete across varying levels of competitive and recreational hockey, playing in tournaments throughout North America year-round. Our travel schedule has taken us from the sunny rinks of Florida to the hockey heartland of Canada — and everywhere in between. These tournaments give our athletes the chance to showcase their skills, build lasting friendships, and experience the thrill of high-level competition.
Community Impact
Sled hockey is a powerful catalyst for personal transformation. It builds physical strength, coordination, and strategic thinking — but more importantly, it cultivates confidence, resilience, and leadership that reach far beyond the rink. Many players discover abilities they never knew they had; others find a supportive community that celebrates their unique strengths.
Our inclusive environment welcomes individuals with a range of physical disabilities and developmental and intellectual differences, creating a team culture where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated. We also invite local youth and adult ice hockey teams to friendly scrimmages — raising awareness for the adaptive sport while creating opportunities for equal competition among disabled and non-disabled athletes.
“We are not just playing hockey; we are breaking down barriers, building dreams, and proving that everyone deserves the chance to compete, excel, and belong.”
Challenges & Opportunities
After more than 20 years of successful operation, we continue to face new challenges in our operating expenses. Rising costs for equipment, ice time, transportation, and tournament fees have significantly impacted our annual operating budget of approximately $200,000. Despite these pressures, our commitment to every eligible player remains absolute — no player will ever be turned away due to inability to pay.
Our Growing Need
As our team grows and more individuals discover the life-changing opportunities sled hockey provides, our funding requirements grow with it. We are actively seeking grant partnerships and donor relationships to ensure the sustainability and growth of our program. Every contribution, regardless of size, directly impacts the lives of our athletes.
Recognition & Partnership
We deeply value our supporters and recognize their contributions through prominent placement on our website, inclusion in team communications and materials, and acknowledgment in our tournament programs. Our donors become part of the RoughRiders family — sharing in our victories and witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of their generosity.
Where ability meets opportunity, and sled hockey belongs to everyone.
With continued support from grants and donors, we'll expand our reach, serve more athletes, and keep proving that hockey truly has no limits.
Support the RoughRidersQuestions about sponsorship? Email lishroughriders@gmail.com.