WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SPECIAL HOCKEY ASSOCIATION

Building confidence.
One skate at a time.

Adaptive ice hockey for athletes ages five and up with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities. A place to learn, belong, build skills, and celebrate every milestone.

Join the Emperors Support our team

★ Every player is a Star Player.

PITTSBURGH EMPERORS · ON THE ICE

All abilities welcomeNo experience needed—just a willingness to learn and have fun.

More than a gameFriendship, teamwork, confidence, and pride.

A supportive communityPlayers, families, coaches, and volunteers together.

OUR MISSION

Empowering through hockey.

The Pittsburgh Emperors are committed to enriching the lives of individuals with developmental, intellectual, and physical disabilities through adaptive hockey.

Through accessible programming, structured practices, and mentorship, we promote inclusion, teamwork, confidence, physical activity, and personal achievement in a safe and supportive environment.

Discover how to get involved →

Pittsburgh Emperors athlete practicing on the ice

COMMUNITY ON AND OFF THE ICE

It's bigger than hockey.

We celebrate achievements, build lasting friendships, and create meaningful experiences for players and families.

Pittsburgh Emperors players and families together — One team. One community.

Pittsburgh Emperors family and athlete — Families are part of the team.

An Emperors athlete learning on the ice — Every milestone matters.

GET INVOLVED

There is a place for you here.

Whether you want to play, volunteer, coach, or support the program, you can help make hockey accessible.

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Athletes

Ready to hit the ice? Our program welcomes athletes ages five and up. No previous hockey experience is needed.

Athlete sign up

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Volunteer coaches

Help athletes learn new skills, grow in confidence, and enjoy being part of a team.

Volunteer to coach

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Parents & volunteers

Be part of the community that makes practices, events, and unforgettable experiences possible.

Get involved

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

Help us keep hockey accessible.

Your support helps provide equipment, ice time, and unforgettable experiences for our Star Players.

Donate today View fundraisers

A NONPROFIT COMMUNITY PROGRAM

Rooted in inclusion.

The Pittsburgh Emperors operate under Western PA Special Hockey Association, a registered 501(c)(3) public charity serving the Pittsburgh community. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

WPSHA promotes special ice hockey throughout Western Pennsylvania regardless of sex, race, creed, religion, or financial situation, guided by core values adopted from USA Hockey and the American Special Hockey Association.

USA HockeyASHASpecial Hockey International

OUR COMMUNITY PARTNERS