We sat down with Billy Bridges, National Para Hockey Team member, Paralympic Gold Medalist, and four-time Sledge Hockey World Champion to talk about International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Scotiabank is proud to partner with Hockey Canada to make hockey more diverse, more inclusive, and more accessible for all. 

 

What does this day (International Day of Persons with Disabilities) mean to you? 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities, to me, is such an amazing day to see my personal heroes honoured for their incredible achievements. From Terry Fox and Rick Hansen to teammates of mine that all have such incredible stories, Canadians with disabilities have so much to offer the world. It begins with hope, and the possibilities are absolutely endless.

 

What are the changes you'd like to see in the game of hockey to make it more inclusive?

Hockey really is a game for all. No matter your disability, race, gender, sexuality or financial situation, hockey is a game for every Canadian to enjoy and thrive in. I believe it is up to every hockey player in Canada to go out of our way to make this game more inclusive for everyone. From donating our old gear, mentoring and encouraging new players or being great ambassadors of the game, we all play a part in represent the best game in the world.

 

What are some of the proudest moments in your hockey career?

The moments I’m most proud of in my hockey career have changed over time. Winning the ultimate prize of Paralympic Gold was obviously such an incredible experience that that certainly grows in importance with every Paralympics that pass that we don’t achieve our golden goal again. But I am also very proud to still be able to contribute to our success after 23 years on this team. Playing hockey at the highest level in Canada, no matter if it’s Men’s, Women’s or Para, is such an incredible honour, but also one of the most difficult and gruelling endeavours an athlete can experience. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

 

What advice would you give to a young hockey player with a disability?

Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Starting a new sport, especially with a newly acquired disability, can be such a daunting and intimidating task. But it can be the most rewarding experience in your life. Your potential is not limited because you have a disability. Disabled athletes can get University Scholarships, play in professional leagues and get to the highest stage at the Paralympic Games where millions of people watch and cheer you on. Sport has the possibility to be a complete life changing experience that can take you all around the world competing, meeting new people and most importantly achieving life goals that once looked impossible.