SAUGERTIES, N.Y. – It's peak season for hockey players. That's why the Hudson Valley ICEbergs are gearing up for more tournaments and fun.

Affiliated with the American Special Hockey Association, the ICEbergs are dedicated to providing young athletes a chance to play hockey. Children ages 5 and up are encouraged to join a team of hockey players, regardless of their skill level, physical, intellectual and/or developmental abilities. 

What You Need To Know

  • Carmelina DeWitt, a Saugerties mother, launched the Hudson Valley ICEbergs in 2022

  • She said the Hudson Valley ICEbergs are a family and a safe space for diversity and inclusion

  • The ICEbergs are a Saugerties-based nonprofit accepting new players and donations on an ongoing basis

"I’m striving for a community of inclusivity and family," founder Carmelina DeWitt said. "Family is hockey."

Whether you're new to hockey or have some experience, DeWitt hosts practice every Sunday in the Kiwanis Ice Arena.

She said it was her 13-year-old daughter, Daniella, who inspired her to launch the ICEbergs in 2022. Despite being diagnosed with autism, Daniella is passionate about playing hockey, competing and getting others involved.

“You get to play with your teammates," Daniella said. "You get to experience skating on the ice and having fun with your friends.”

Daniella said she looks forward to lacing up her skates and attending hockey practice every week. 

“Most days are hard for me because I have to go to school and stuff, but once I’m on the ice, it’s better for me, for my health," Daniella said. 

Since joining the ICEbergs, Daniella has helped recruit other players and convince parents like Amanda Wollyung about that the healthy ICEbergs' atmosphere.

"My daughter knew Daniella from school," Wollyung said. "Harmony has not skated a day in her life, so I was a little nervous about it ... the all-inclusive hockey team embraced Harmony, no matter what her skill level was. It's built her confidence, and it's really brought us closer as well."