USA Hockey Adult Hockey

EAGLE RIVER, Wisc. - Inspiration struck three-time Labatt Blue/USA Hockey Pond Hockey Championship participant Joe Marella last year when he was looking for a way to transport his infant daughter around Dollar Lake during the tournament.

The end result was a sled made from hockey sticks, skates and a visor that turned into a great ride for the baby and an instant hit with the pond hockey crowd. A picture was posted on www.usahockey.com in 2008 and a mini-star was in the making.

By the week before the 2009 tournament kicked off in Eagle River, Wisc., Marella’s sled was even featured on ESPN.com in John Buccigross’ hockey blog.

“A lot of people mention it,” Marella said of the sled, “but even more are taking pictures with their phones as we walk by. My wife is a social butterfly so she digs it.” 

Marella said some offers have come in pushing him to sell the design but so far he’s not interested. He said he just enjoys the convenience of the sled and playing in the tournament