About Us

Established in 2001, the New Jersey Dare Devils (NJDD) was started by a mother seeking to find a physical outlet for her disabled son. Today, the NJDD provides individuals with developmental disabilities an opportunity to participate in ice hockey in an adapted learning environment known as special hockey. The NJDD comprises nearly 70 developmentally disabled players ages five to adult with a wide range of abilities — from beginner to advanced. Our coaching staff is made up of USA Hockey certified senior coaches. Additionally, high school-aged players volunteer as junior coaches and assist the coaching staff on-ice. Their participation enables a low player–to-coach ratio and fosters an environment where hockey players from all walks of life come together to form meaningful relationships.

Special hockey has grown rapidly. The American Special Hockey Association (ASHA) has helped disabled children and adults develop characteristics such as dependability, self-reliance, confidence, and pride through their participation in hockey. There are over 70 special hockey teams across the U.S. and Canada.

Based out of Codey Arena in West Orange, NJ, NJDD is a 501(c)3 organization that relies on dedicated volunteers and annual fundraising efforts to operate. (Donations are always welcome)

Our team is split into two groups:

1. Advanced and intermediate players that are confident skating and have self-sufficient hockey skills.

2. Learn-to-skate players that are new to ice skating and hockey.

When possible, we try to provide our learn-to-skate players with more personalized attention during practice. Our advanced and intermediate players participate in organized hockey drills, skating training, and scrimmages. All players are welcome to take part in games and are matched up on lines based on their skill set as much as possible. When learn-to-skate players compete in games, we have coaches available to assist them on the ice.