VOLT Hockey Classic celebrates inclusion, competition, and community
November 08, 2025
VOLT Hockey Classic celebrates inclusion, competition, and community
Thorold, ON – When 15-year-old Mason Rogers rolled onto the court at Canada Games Park for the first-ever Niagara VOLT Hockey Classic, the energy in the room felt electric — in every sense of the word.
Surrounded by teammates, supporters, and nearly 50 athletes from across Ontario, the St. Catharines teen was exactly where he wanted to be: in the heart of the action, competing in the sport he loves.
“It’s nice to be part of a team where I don’t have to worry about my disability,” Mason said. “I have always wanted to play hockey, and now I can. I enjoy the tournaments the most — being on a team and having fun competing.”
Hosted by Niagara Children’s Centre, the inaugural tournament brought together teams from Barrie, Hamilton, London, Toronto (Variety Village), and Niagara for a full day of fast-paced games, skill, and community pride. Athletes ranged in age from four to 21 years old and competed in divisions based on their skill level.
VOLT Hockey is an adaptive, electric-powered version of the sport that utilizes specialized motorized chairs controlled by a joystick, enabling players to move, pass, and shoot with speed and precision. For young people like Mason, who lives with mild cerebral palsy, it has been nothing short of life-changing.
“I can do a 360 shot now and maneuver the chair smoothly,” he explained. “I’m also starting to help other teammates learn the sport and practice for tournaments.”
For Mason’s family, the impact extends well beyond the court. “I love watching Mason in his element,” his dad, Allan Rogers, shared. “The social piece is the best part. It has made Mason come out of his shyness — meeting more people, becoming a leader, being part of a team.”
Events like Saturday’s tournament also bring parents together, creating a community of shared understanding, encouragement, and celebration.
“As a parent, watching him compete is like no other,” his dad said. “It’s exciting to see him doing a sport he loves — and connecting with other families going through a similar journey.”
Local leaders joined families and supporters in the stands, including Mat Siscoe, Mayor of St. Catharines, Terry Ugulini, Mayor of Thorold, and Noella Klawitter, CEO, Niagara Children’s Centre.
“This event wasn’t just about hockey — it was about belonging, confidence, and joy,” said Klawitter. “For many of these athletes, this is the first time they’ve had the chance to be part of a competitive sport environment. Watching them take the court with pride and determination is incredibly meaningful.”
Along with VOLT Hockey, Niagara Children’s Centre continues to expand accessible recreation programming, including open-gym play opportunities, seasonal celebrations, community outings like apple-picking and bowling, and accessible baseball in partnership with Jays Care Foundation.
“Our goal is to make sure every child feels seen, supported, and included,” Klawitter said. “Recreation isn’t just play — it’s connection, skill-building, and belonging. And today showed what’s possible when our community comes together.”
As the final buzzer sounded, Mason’s excitement hadn’t faded. Asked what he’d say to another young athlete thinking about trying VOLT Hockey, he smiled.
“You got this! You never know until you try — and it’s so fun.”
For Mason and dozens of young athletes like him, the first Niagara VOLT Hockey Classic wasn’t just a tournament — it was a celebration of ability, teamwork, and the joy of being part of something bigger. And it’s only the beginning.
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About Niagara Children’s Centre: Niagara Children’s Centre provided rehabilitation and child development services to more than 5,900 children and youth last year across the Niagara Region with physical, developmental and communicative delays. The range of services include: physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language services, augmentative and alternative communication, family services and therapeutic recreation.
For further information, contact: Michael Morrison, Marketing & Communications Officer
Phone: 905-688-1890 ext 260
Email:
michael.morrison@niagarachildrenscentre.comPhoto caption:
Mason Rogers of the Niagara Stingrays battles for the ball against a player from Barrie during the inaugural Niagara VOLT Hockey Classic at Canada Games Park in Thorold.