Children with developmental disabilities get the chance to play hockey like a pro at Ottawa Park.
"Well, I like to skate fast," said 12-year-old Lyndon Parsons.
Lyndon has a rare disorder which causes him to have seizures. As a result, his father Tony Parsons says he is developmentally delayed.
"Lyndon has Sturge Weber Syndrome," said Parsons. "He's 12, but he's about the equivalent of a nine or 10 year old in some of the things he does."
The American Special Hockey Association gives kids ages 13-17 the opportunity to develop everyday skills in a fun environment.
"It's a true hockey environment. Being outside, we weren't sure how the kids would react before we did the first one last year. But they love the event," said Mike Hickey, president of ASHA.
The players have the same competitiveness and drive as any hockey player, but the rink gives them an even playing field where they can learn more that just how to skate fast.
"We're more of a therapeutic program where we use hockey as a tool to help with socialization, leadership, working together and life skills," Hickey said.
Playing on the outdoor hockey rink makes the game feel even more like a real game.
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