Last week's sled hockey border game featured several local connections.
In the case of the American team, it begins with the head coach having the opportunity to bring the team not far from his hometown.
Since taking over Team USA men's sled hockey in 2018, the sport of sled hockey has taken David Hoff to places like China, Southeast Asia, South Korea and Europe.
“I never thought this would have been on my radar. Back in 2010, I started coaching summer camps for kids with disabilities and enjoyed every summer However, I never aspired to join the national team or thought I would have a chance,” Hoff said.
The game sent him back to North Dakota, less than 100 miles from his hometown of Bottineau, last week for a sled hockey border battle against Team Canada.
“First of all, it's always a lot of fun when I get a chance to play on American soil, and the fact that I can go to North Dakota and Minot so close to home makes it even more fun,” Hoff said.
Hoff coached high school hockey for 30 years before getting the opportunity with Team USA.
Corey Gorder, another Bottineau native and one of Hoff's former high school players, is also on the U.S. coaching staff.
“One of the best things about this that I enjoy is that it's not just about hockey. I think both David and I focus on the individual's well-being first. After the individual, it's about I think it’s going to be everything else,” Gorder said. .
And even though he doesn't have a physical disability, Hof's coaches remind him that life's challenges can be overcome through perseverance.
“Men who have been injured in Iraq or Afghanistan, men who have been injured in accidents, cancer survivors who have had their legs amputated, or men who were born with some kind of medical condition that limits their lives, such as a wheelchair, are just special people. It's true. They accept their physical disability and don't see it as a disability. They're going to live life to the fullest,” Hoff said.
Mr. Hoff also thanked Thor Nelson, Prairie Grit, Minot Hockey Boosters and Maysa Arena staff for their help in organizing Battle of the Borders.
