Levelling the Playing Field
Across Canada, VOLT Hockey is revolutionizing the world of sports by fostering inclusive and accessible activities that bring families together. Through the innovative use of specially engineered battery-operated chairs, VOLT Hockey is designed for individuals of all abilities, and the electric sport is creating opportunities for shared family experiences and deeper connections.
The Welch brothers, Corbett (17) and Grayson (17) are both players on the London VOLT Hockey team in Ontario. As two thirds of a set of triplets, Corbett and Grayson have always been close, and have a clear competitive brotherly love to prove it. Grayson put his competitive spirit to good use, playing soccer from a young age. But team sports weren’t ever on the radar for Corbett, who was born with Cerebral Palsy.
When their mom learned of VOLT Hockey in 2017, it seemed like the perfect fit for Corbett, and he took to it immediately. “It wasn’t too difficult to learn the sport, the controls are pretty simple, and the rules are similar to ice hockey,” Corbett explains. “I’ve met great friends through the sport over the years, and it’s all just fun. It’s a great community and whatever your skill level, everyone is so supportive.”
Grayson recalls a sense of pride seeing his brother play, but never thought that he would be able to play himself. So, when a spot opened on the team Grayson jumped at the chance to get to play with his brother. “What kid doesn’t love the sound of motorized go-karts?”, he explained. “My favourite part is now I get to beat him at something on an even level! Even though admittedly, he is the better player.”
The Welch family is one of many who have experienced the transformative power of VOLT Hockey. The sport has provided a unique opportunity for siblings and family members, regardless of their physical abilities, to play on the same team, some for the first time ever.
The brothers say this shared experience has strengthened their bond and created some cherished memories, and amidst their playful bickering they share a story of travelling to Toronto for a tournament. “I didn’t realize how big the community was until that tournament,” Grayson begins. “There are people from all over the place, and we all got to hang out in a hotel on this trip, meeting everyone and playing VOLT. It’s just so cool to be able to do that kind of competitive and social thing with Corbett.”
VOLT Hockey fosters a sense of community and inclusion through team sports. Players, coaches, and families come together, forming a supportive network that celebrates inclusion and encourages participation.
“Playing on the same team as Grayson has definitely brought us closer,” Corbett began, before being cut off by Grayson. “It’s way worse now,” Grayson joked, “now we have something to actually fight over!” The boys laugh and then Corbett carries on, “it bridges the gap, sometimes when siblings are differently abled they may not be willing, or able, to play the same kinds of things as you. Grayson has always been a huge support to me, and we’ve made some amazing memories being able to have this sport between us.”
As VOLT Hockey Canada continues to grow, so does its impact on families and communities across the country. The sport serves as a powerful reminder that adaptive sports can break down barriers and bring people together. For families like the Welchs, VOLT Hockey has been a game-changer, providing opportunities for shared experiences and lifelong memories.
“VOLT Hockey has given us the chance to be a team, it’s just been the best experience.” Says Corbett, “I’m grateful for every moment.”
Adaptive sports like VOLT Hockey Canada are redefining what it means to play, compete, and connect. Through inclusivity and innovation, they are not only changing the game but also transforming lives, one family at a time.