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LARCHMONT, N.Y. - The New York Raptors are one of four special hockey teams that will play in the annual special hockey Thanksgiving tournament at the Hommocks Ice Rink Saturday.
Ed Mikus, a Larchmont resident, has coached the team with Anne Majsak since 2005 and looks forward to this annual event, which draws local support every year.
"Mamaroneck Youth Hockey Association donates the ice time," Mikus said. "Unquestionably, the tournament could not take place without their help and continuing support."
Players in the Thanksgiving tournament always have plenty of food to refuel after the games, thanks to Sal's Pizza, which donates around 20 pizzas for the team dinner, and Sage Deli, which donates wedges for the clean-up crew.
The New York Raptors are one of 70 special hockey teams in the United States, operate under the umbrella of the American Special Hockey Association, an affiliate of both USA Hockey, Disabled Section, and Special Hockey International. It began in 1996 under the direction of then British Consul in New York Mike Dwyer. Pat Nadolske later took over, before Mikus and Majsak.
"Special hockey is a unique program open to developmentally and otherwise disabled children and adults who are unable or ineligible to participate in other organized programs due to their disability," according to a team press release. "The players disabilities do not affect their ability to play good hockey and have a great time. The enthusiasm and dedication of these teams and their coaches is without equal."
In addition to the New York Raptors, the New Jersey Daredevils, Albany Cougars and Long Island Blue will play in the tournament, which begins at 5:25.
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