Hockey is for EveryBODY

Hockey is for EveryBODY: Join the Movement!

The Achieve Performance Institute (API) and Knights of Columbus (KofC) invite you to an extraordinary event celebrating inclusivity and community through hockey. On March 29–30, 2025, at Queen City Sportsplex in Evendale, Ohio, we’re bringing together volunteers, families, and fans for a weekend of adaptive hockey, fun activities, and community spirit! 

About the Event

Due to unforeseen postseason events, our special hockey team will be competing in a tournament in Indianapolis that weekend and will not be able to participate this year. While we will miss their presence, this change has allowed us to expand our event programming with exciting new activities.

This two-day event will showcase unity, perseverance, and the power of sport to connect us all. Adaptive hockey remains a key part of this event, featuring opportunities for athletes of all abilities, including:

• Sled Hockey (Sledge Hockey): Enabling players with physical disabilities to compete using specialized sleds, leveling the playing field for every athlete.
• Blind Hockey: Offering an innovative adaptation for visually impaired players, using an oversized puck with auditory cues to guide their play.
• Youth Divisions: Boys' and girls' youth hockey players will take part in skills clinics and the Shootout Challenge.

New Exhibition Games

• Saturday Exhibition (March 29): An All-Girls Sled Hockey Practice, highlighting the skill and dedication of female athletes in adaptive sports.
• Sunday Exhibition (March 30): A Parochial & High School Boys' Sled Hockey Scrimmage, featuring a mix of able-bodied high school players and sled hockey athletes. We are working to finalize teams, aiming for a St. Xavier vs. Moeller matchup—a fantastic opportunity to showcase the adaptability and competitive spirit of the game.

Additionally, the 4th Degree of Liebold Assembly will present the colors during the Shootout Challenge ceremonies on both Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 PM, adding an even greater sense of tradition and honor to the moment.

What to Expect

• Skills Clinics: Inclusive training sessions designed to ensure every participant has a moment to shine.
• Shootout Challenge: Teams of diverse abilities will come together in an exciting display of teamwork.
• Exciting Activities: Face painting, balloon animals, hair braiding, blind boxing, wheelchair and blind tennis, and more!
• Vendors & Memorabilia: Meet sports vendors, explore adaptive programs, and grab signed memorabilia from Todd Moore.
• A Toast to Inclusion: The bar will be open for adult beverages—because happy parents = happy kids!

Stay Connected

We’re sharing player interviews and event updates on API’s Instagram page: Achieve Performance Institute Instagram. Currently, two player interviews are available, and we will continue posting more information and interviews leading up to the event. Be sure to follow along and help spread the word!

Your Support Makes This Possible

Your donation directly funds essential costs, including:
✅ Ice rental: $385 per hour for games and practices.
✅ Adaptive equipment: Providing athletes with the tools they need.
✅ Community engagement: Supporting a welcoming, fun-filled event.

Every donation matters! Contributions of $385 or more will be recognized during the event and in promotional materials. Proceeds benefit Cincinnati Cyclones Special Hockey, Cincinnati Cyclones Blind Hockey, and Cincinnati Icebreakers Sled Hockey, ensuring long-term impact for adaptive athletes.

Make a Difference Today

Imagine the joy of a young athlete scoring their first goal, the pride of families watching their children thrive, and the power of sports to unite us all. Your donation is more than a gift—it’s a statement that EVERYBODY belongs.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Aaron Slusher
President & Co-Founder
Achieve Performance Institute
Together, we're changing lives—one goal, one smile, one community at a time.