Make Me Smart Sled hockey's Declan Farmer makes us smart about the Winter Paralympics
Feb 24, 2026
Declan Farmer, a three-time Paralympic gold medalist in sled ice hockey, explains sled hockey gear, rules, and how players move from a sled. He recalls starting the sport young and rising to elite competition. He discusses Team USA vs Canada rivalry, growing Paralympics visibility, finding local adaptive programs, and the financial struggles many Paralympians face.
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How Sled Hockey Matches Stand-Up Hockey
- Sled hockey adapts stand-up ice hockey primarily through equipment changes like a seated sled with two skate blades and dual sticks with ice picks.
- Players do everything with their upper body; rules, team size, and full-contact play mirror stand-up hockey.
Early Start Led To Rapid Paralympic Rise
- Declan Farmer started sled hockey at eight using two leg prosthetics and fell in love with the sport's speed and physicality.
- He progressed from playing for fun to serious training and made the Sochi Paralympic team at 16 while a high school sophomore.
Canada Is The Primary Rival
- The biggest rival for Team USA in sled hockey is Canada, mirroring traditional hockey rivalries with intense, evenly matched contests.
- Declan describes respect and high stakes that create pregame butterflies and intense on-ice battles.