Coach's Comments:
This organization was established to give developmentally challenged players the opportunity to participate in a hockey program geared to their own unique abilities. Mainstream hockey programs do not address the social and physical needs of developmentally challenged players, so our program has been developed to fill this void. We began with just a few players with one simple item in common ... the desire to play hockey. There are no tryouts or skill requirements to join the team; players will learn how to skate, handle a stick, pass and shoot - all at their own pace.
The program is divided by skill level, regardless of age or gender. We have beginner, intermediate and senior teams that are assessed based on the abilities of the individual. The players will participate in both practices and games, whatever their abilities. The primary objectives are to have fun, enjoy social interaction and gain hockey skills with the emphasis on having fun.
The program is available to male and female players, from the age of 6 and up. We have a large contingent of volunteers to assist with the more challenged players. We encourage new players to visit the Magna Centre on Saturdays between 10:00am and 1:00pm to watch and/or participate to help them determine if our program fills their needs.
The Newmarket Nighthawks are a member of the Special Hockey International organization. There are currently (as of 2016) 24 clubs from Canada, 16 from the U.S., 2 from England and 1 each from Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Most of the clubs have 3 or 4 teams, so that adds up to a whole bunch.
