A Space Coast Blast and USA Women’s Development Sled Hockey Team player was featured in the NHL’s Color of Hockey Blog. This is a must-read story about Karina Villegas: a strong, remarkable woman who is not only a great teammate, friend and mother but an advocate for the growth of sled hockey in Latin America.
Karina Villegas (Photo: Justin Markwalter)
Last year, Karina participated in a sled hockey demo and clinic at the LATAM Cup. Afterwards, she met and talked with a player from Argentina. As a result of watching the game and chatting with Karina, he wanted to start a sled program in his country. He returned to Argentina with a set of Karina’s sticks and a sled from Coach Ron Robichaud. Recently, he sent a video of players trying sled hockey in Argentina. Previously, she travelled to Puerto Rico with Coach Ron and the Sled Bandits. Karina’s dream of bringing sled hockey to Latin America is starting to come true!
Florida Sled Hockey “Grow the Game Tour” in Puerto Rico: Greg Shaw – 2x Paralympic Sled Hockey Gold Medalist, Monica Quimby – USA Women’s Developmental Sled Hockey Team, Carlos Mendez – Aguadilla, Puerto Rico Mayor and Karina Villegas – USA Women’s Developmental Sled Hockey Team
Check out thisTweet from USA Sled Hockey player Josh Pauls:
We are so lucky to have Karina as a member of our Space Coast Sled Hockey family. We can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next!! Check out our schedule to watch Karina and the team play this season.
Space Coast Blast (Photo: Sophie Szymula)