AHIHA Celebrates 40 Years of Service to the Hearing Impaired Hockey Community
Established in 1973, by Chicago businessman Irv Tiahnybik, in cooperation with NHL Hall of Fame and former Chicago Blackhawk Star Stan Mikita, The American Hearing Impaired Hockey Association (AHIHA) has contributed to the growth and development of deaf and hard of hearing players from all across the country for 40 years. Today, AHIHA Ambassador Tony Granato, former NHL player and now the assistant coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, along with AHIHA Head Coach Jeff Sauer continue the leadership role started by Mikita and Tiahnybik. Click HERE to read full history of AHIHA.
The mission of the American Hearing Impaired Hockey Association is to instill confidence and self-esteem in deaf and hard of hearing athletes. AHIHA helps these athletes improve their skills and understanding of the game, so they are better able to participate in their mainstream athletic programs without limitations. The special needs of deaf and hard of hearing athletes are first and foremost AHIHA’s hockey environment.
This week marks AHIHA’s 2013 Summer Hockey Camp for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Hockey Players at 7 Bridges Ice Arena in Woodridge, Illinois. The camp is open to boys and girls of all ages and skill levels – from the first time skater to the high school all-star and beyond! Participants experience a week of hockey training from top level coaches from around the country and USA Deaf Hockey Team Olympians. In addition to receiving first class hockey training, AHIHA campers also participate in scrimmages with volunteer teams from all over Illinois.
“When we get them together, and it’s kids from all across the country, the chemistry is unbelievable right away. There is specific sign language we use and in most cases communication is easy because it’s hockey. They’re just normal players who want to play the game and don’t hear well. They bond together well, and we’ve had success on the international scene.” – Head Coach Jeff Sauer
For information about Deaf/Hard of Hearing Hockey, please contact Jeff Sauer at coachjsauer@gmail.com.
Categories: Special Hockey