Within the walls of Variety Village, a remarkable story is unfolding – the electrifying ascent of Volt hockey. This isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifeline, a source of empowerment, and a testament to the human spirit’s unwavering determination. It’s a game that has even earned a place within the hallowed halls of the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Volt hockey reimagines the national game for those with limited mobility. Played on a gym floor in nimble, battery-powered carts, players maneuver with a simple joystick, skillfully wielding a modified hockey blade to chase a wiffle ball. It’s a sport where barriers dissolve, and anyone can experience the thrill of competition.
Bhavjeet “Bav” Sandhu, captain of the Variety Vikings, embodies this spirit. Diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at age ten, Bav hasn’t walked since, and his arm strength is severely limited. Yet, he reigns as Canada’s premier Volt hockey player, a modern-day Wayne Gretzky navigating the court with unmatched skill and strategic brilliance.
At 21, Bav defies the grim prognosis associated with his condition. He relentlessly pursues physiotherapy twice a week with trainer Eric Savva, balances a demanding computer science degree at Ontario Tech University with a passion for artificial intelligence, but it’s Volt hockey that truly ignites his soul. “There was a time when Volt was the only thing holding me together,” he admits, recalling a period of unhappiness transformed by the joy and independence the sport provided.
The speed is exhilarating – the carts can reach 14 km/h, spinning with incredible agility. Bav explains, “In a gym class there’s not much I can do. Here I’m working at something. I’m fully independent. In this, I can do anything.” This isn’t merely recreation; it’s liberation.
Variety Village was the first North American organization to embrace Volt hockey seven years ago, and the sport’s roots trace back to Denmark in the 1990s, championed by Crown Prince funding. Bav has already represented Canada on the world stage, competing in three World Cups in Sweden, even securing a surprise silver medal in his debut.
Coach Alex McLean, a veteran of powerchair hockey, observes a significant evolution in the team’s performance. “We’re still five or six years behind the very top European teams, but we’re improving rapidly.” The team is now focused on structured play, strategic defense, and creating space, a far cry from the goal-hungry approach of their younger years.
Leadership is blossoming within the team, spearheaded by the calm precision of sniper Liam Marriage and Gavriella “Gavi” Engel-Yan, the team’s sole female player, both just 15 years old. Their growing maturity promises a bright future for the Vikings.
The popularity of Volt hockey at Variety Village has surged, leading to the creation of two teams – the Vikings and the Vipers – and a thriving junior prospects program. However, a recent tournament in Calgary marked a turning point, delivering the team’s first North American loss, a humbling but valuable wake-up call.
The sport is expanding beyond Variety Village, with competitive teams emerging in Alberta, Manitoba, and across Ontario. Bav dreams of a formal national league, envisioning live broadcasts and a wider audience for this incredible game. He’s already sharing his passion through his YouTube channel, 360 Volt Hockey.
Bav’s dedication is extraordinary. He independently learned Danish and Swedish to compete in a tournament in Sweden, overcoming immense physical challenges to earn a silver medal. His father, Harjeet Sandhu, reflects on the transformative impact of Volt hockey, witnessing his son’s shy demeanor replaced by unwavering confidence. “He was very shy as a little kid… but his confidence has grown by leaps and bounds. And my dream of being a hockey dad has come true.”
The Hockey Hall of Fame’s recognition of Volt hockey, with a display including a Volt stick and wiffle ball, is a significant milestone. But many believe a place should be reserved for Bav Sandhu’s #3 jersey – a symbol of resilience, determination, and the power of sport to change lives.
