The next athlete to have positively responded to my request as an amateur journalist: Noah Grove.
I really didn’t think I would reach an American player. They are in a dimension far above ours. Without offending other teams, they dominate the world of sled hockey. This status gives them superiority in every way in my eyes. Unlike many of my compatriots, I like winners, killers, and I have no problem with the fact that they have a hierarchy above mine. In all fields. Because I can see today what they have sacrificed to get there.
I like Noah. We don’t know each other at all, and he probably didn’t know I existed, but he is one of those people who seem good. « Who have a good face, » as we say in French. I also discovered his humility in this podcast, which adds a cherry on top of the qualities I appreciate. He also discusses the periods of doubt and reflection after competitions, which are themes I would like to explore one day.
Can you introduce yourself? Your name, age, and whether you have a job in addition to playing para ice hockey?
My name is Noah Grove, I am 26 years old, and I play sled hockey full-time for Team USA.
How long have you been playing? What is your sports history ? in club and national team?
I have been playing sled hockey for 15 years. In club, I have been fortunate enough to have won every major event. From the Junior National Championships with the Bennett Blazers to the Tier 1 National Championship, the NHL Sled Classic, and our « Super Bowl, » the Midwest Sled Hockey League Championship with the Northeast Passage Wildcats. I have been on the U.S. Sled Hockey Team since 2016. We have won gold together at the 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2025 World Championships. I was also honored to be a part of the last two Paralympic gold medal-winning teams, 2018 and 2022.
What position do you play? What do you enjoy about it? And what do you hope to contribute to your team through this role?
I’m a defenseman. I was moved from forward right before the Beijing Paralympics. I enjoy being able to see the whole ice and being able to make the first pass in the transition game. I hope that I can play a fast game and make the right plays that the team needs while having fun doing it.
Do you have a favorite technique or a type of movement or action that you prefer?
I like when I get the chance to do a 360 in my sled with the puck. It’s really difficult to pull off.
Conversely, is there a handling skill or technique that you would like to see improved?
I’ve been really working on pass catching this season, hopefully it can lead to more chances for the team.
Can you tell us about your equipment?
Once you make the US team, you get a custom made sled bucket and frame. I play on skate blades cut at 1 1/4 inch and they are spaced 1 1/2 inch a part. I think most people think you need narrow blades to turn quickly, but I’ve found the ability to control my sled has increased with the wider blades. This allows me to more consistently do quicker turns, and sharper stops. I would never skate on any sharpening less than 1 inch. I think it makes it easier to stop, which makes it easier to control your sled.
How are you approaching these Paralympic Games? What are your personal goals? How do you feel about this unique competition?
I always play my best when I’m having fun and that’s what the team needs from me is to play my best.
Can you tell us about your daily routine during this preparation period? Any ice time, gym sessions, or other activities to help you perform well at the Games? Meditation …?
We had a team residence program prior to arriving in Milan. We were skating together every weekday, roughly 10-12 hours a week and in the gym at least an hour on the days we skated. Personally, I like to journal before games to get into a mindset to perform my best.
Can you tell us about the teams you’ll be facing? Which ones have a style of play or tactics that appeal to you? Any players in particular?
I love playing against Canada, they’re a top notch team. They always push us and we push them.
Do you have a mantra or a phrase you say to yourself that helps you feel good?
My grandfather sends me a text before every game that says « speed and agility! »
What can we wish you for these Games besides a gold medal?
Safe travels! As I write this, we are on our way to Italy!
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