SABAH, Amherst Youth Hockey hold Skate-A-Thon

SABAH skater Matthew Garrison, upside down, and volunteer Holly Vereeke took to the ice during the Skate-A-Thon held last month.

Local athletes from two ice skating organizations recently participated in a Skate-A-Thon to boost enthusiasm and funding for their groups.

SABAH ice skaters, who are challenged by disabilities, joined forces with Amherst Youth Hockey athletes in a five-hour event held at Amherst Pepsi Center.

This marked the second year these groups have collaborated in the event, which raises money to cover program expenses.

For SABAH skaters with special challenges, the afternoon offered a chance to experience the thrill of accomplishment and camaraderie in skating alongside local hockey players.

Athletes from both organizations worked diligently to collect pledges from supportive family, friends and community members prior to the Skate-A-Thon, trying to top last year’s totals.

“This is such a wonderful event,” said SABAH Executive Director Sheila O’Brien. “It really brings out the best in everyone. It’s heartwarming to see skaters from both groups on the ice, developing together as athletes. We are pleased and grateful to be part of this undertaking with Amherst Youth Hockey and always appreciate collaboration with this fine organization.”

SABAH, which stands for Skating Athletes Bold at Heart, provides recreational education through therapeutic ice skating for local individuals of all ages challenged by physical, mental and emotional disabilities. Through SABAH’s programs, individuals with special needs develop critical skills that enable them to succeed in everyday life.

The organization offers programs throughout Erie and Niagara counties six days a week at five different rinks. In addition, SABAH provides a School-Time Program free of charge for local students facing both disabilities and lack of money. Families can learn more by contacting SABAH at 362-9600 or visiting www.sabahinc.org.

SABAH is currently conducting a holiday fund-raising appeal to help cover costs of equipment, ice rental fees, skater insurance, curriculum development and skater Ice Show participation.

Buffalo Sabres’ co-captain Chris Drury serves as honorary spokesperson for the fund drive. Donations to the appeal are accepted at the telephone number listed above.