A Paralympian's Return to Lead Australia's Charge in Para Ice Hockey

Twenty-five years after her last representation of Australia, where she won silver in the women's F55 shot put at the Sydney Paralympics, Lynda Holt is back in the green and gold. The 53-year-old is set to compete at the inaugural Para Ice Hockey Women's World Championships in Slovakia. Holt, who retired from shot put in 2002, expressed the significance of returning to the team environment and competing for Australia once again.

Holt has played a crucial role in building the team, having represented the Pacific team in last year's World Challenge. The momentum to form a national team gained traction after the challenge. Several team members, like Holt, have previous experience in Paralympic or disability sports events, including swimming legend Priya Cooper and Invictus Games alumna Sonya Newman. Holt shared her enthusiasm for the sport, actively recruiting players.

Prior to the World Challenges, para ice hockey was a mixed-gender sport. Since 2022, women's participation has increased significantly, though there is still room for growth. Only three women have competed in ice hockey at the Paralympics. Australia's Chef de Mission and team manager, Michaela Fellowes, aims to get the women's game into the Winter Paralympics.

To become a leader in the sport, Australia must address the challenges of accessing winter sports, particularly for disabled individuals. These challenges include rink accessibility and the high cost of ice time and equipment. Despite these obstacles, the team is excited for the competition.

Holt acknowledged that they are up against some of the world's best para ice hockey players. However, the championships mark an important beginning for Australia's women's para ice hockey journey. Both Holt and Fellowes believe that focusing on growth will lead to Australia competing at the Paralympics in the future.