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USA Hockey's NTDP To Host First Sensory Friendly Game Oct. 28

By USAHockeyNTDP.com, 10/18/18, 1:30PM EDT

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Team USA partners with Autism Alliance of Michigan to support fans with sensory needs


Photo by Rena Laverty

PLYMOUTH, Mich. - USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program and USA Hockey Arena will partner with the Autism Alliance of Michigan to host its inaugural Sensory Friendly Day Sunday, Oct. 28 at 2 p.m. when the U.S. National Under-18 Team takes on the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League.

“We are thrilled to offer a game presentation with decreased auditory and visual stimulation at USA Hockey Arena,” said Scott Monaghan, senior director of operations for the NTDP. “USA Hockey believes that everyone should be able to enjoy our sport and inviting those who were not able to previously attend a game due to an overstimulating environment is very important to us.”

"USA Hockey has extended a warm welcome to the autism community and those who struggle to navigate their sensory environment and new experiences," said Tammy Morris, chief program officer for the Autism Alliance of Michigan. "Families that are overwhelmed with medical care and the hard work that autism presents will simply enjoy an afternoon of great hockey and AAoM is pleased to partner and celebrate the event."

Fans can expect decreased auditory and visual stimulation, along with a modified concessions menu with gluten-free and health-conscious options. In addition, there will be quiet rooms available and a Halloween fun zone with costume contests and special giveaways.

Although this family-fun hockey game was created especially for fans with sensory needs, all Team USA fans are welcomed and included.

More information on the event and the specially priced $6 sensory friendly zone tickets are available by visiting the USA Hockey Arena Box office, by calling 734-453-8400 or by visiting USAHockeyNTDP.com/SensoryFriendlyDay. Tickets to all Team USA games are available by visiting USAHockeyNTDP.com/Tix.

ABOUT THE NTDP: USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program is in its 22nd season of competition and is based at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan. The goal of the full-time development program is to prepare student-athletes under the age of 18 for participation on U.S. National Teams and success in their future hockey careers. Its efforts focus not only on high-caliber participation on the ice but creating well-rounded individuals off the ice.

ABOUT THE AUTISM ALLIANCE OF MICHIGAN: Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is leading efforts to raise expectations and expand opportunities for people touched by autism across the lifespan. AAoM's 4 pillars of work focus on Navigation, Education, Employment and Independent Living. Visit www.AAoMI.org for more information. 

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