DAHA To Host Duluth Special and Sled Hockey Program

June 4, 2012

Northland Sports Online

The Duluth Amateur Hockey Association (DAHA) and Duluth Special and Sled Hockey (DASSH) have partnered and DAHA will host the DASSH program for the 2012-2013 season.

This agreement will allow DASSH to move forward while focusing on player recruitment and program funding. DASSH will operate under DAHA’s organizational structure. This partnership is an integral step for the development and sustainability of DASSH.

“Next season marks DAHA’s 50th year of providing opportunities for youth in Duluth, and I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate that milestone than by expanding our program to serve individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. This is a big step in truly fulfilling our mission”, stated DAHA President Ken Hansen.

Mr. Hansen continued, “This alliance will also benefit our current members as DASSH will help us fulfill our usage agreement with the Duluth Heritage Sports Center. It’s a win for everyone involved.”

DAHA was founded in 1963 and had 720 members in the 2011-2012 season. DAHA holds the affiliate agreement with Minnesota Hockey and USA Hockey for the city of Duluth, and oversees 11 rink associations within the city. DAHA’s Mission Statement reads:

Our mission is to provide all youth an opportunity to participate and excel through the sport of hockey while building and developing sportsmanship, self-esteem, confidence, and respect for others.

DASSH was started in January of 2012 by Christian Koelling and Kelly Erickson. There was an apparent need for a program to provide opportunity for people in the Duluth area with physical and developmental disabilities to participate in the game of hockey. DASSH was created to allow all people to be a part of the culture of northern Minnesota. Five events were held in January through April for hockey players of all ages that are not able to play hockey in traditional leagues. A full season with regular ice sessions is in the planned for 2012-2013.

The formation of DASSH would not have been possible without the efforts of The Hendrickson Foundation and Courage Center Duluth. DASSH will continue its strong partnerships with The Hendrickson Foundation and Courage Center Duluth.

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