The Rod Crane Fund

My name is Rod Crane, I grew up in Beaver Valley and like most Canadian kids; winter sports were my passion. On March 10, 2010 I sustained a spinal cord injury from a trampoline accident. Three years post injury, I realized I still wanted to participate in winter sports and for the last five years, I’ve been fortunate enough to play hockey again in the form of sledge hockey, as well as ski again with the use of a mono ski. Getting back into sport after a traumatic injury helped me to realize I wasn’t alone, I’ve met a large community of athletes who share a very similar lifestyle to myself. Through hard work and determination, I have the honour to be named the assistant captain of Sledge Team Ontario, as well as a member of the National Sledge Hockey Development program. I’ve also been fortunate enough to become a member of the Ontario Para Alpine Racing Team as well as a prospect of the Canadian Para Alpine racing team.

As you can imagine, adaptive sports are very expensive endeavours. Because the owner of the Facility that I was injured at had no insurance, I received no settlement to help with the costs directly related to my injury, or my future, even though I am left with a lifetime disability.

Being involved in these sports has shown me that I want to be able to continue with them and compete at the highest level possible. Even though I am able to access funds through the Quest for Gold, which is a government grant program that helps subsidize athletes competing in one sport. I would like to compete in two. There are still many out of pocket costs; air fair, hotels, off ice training, equipment, etc. as you can imagine it adds up quickly.

Adaptive sports are expensive but the experience is priceless. I am fortunate enough to have a local sponsorship who has purchased me a new sled for hockey and I am seeking more donations. The funds that I am able to raise from local business, family and friends will allow me to reach my dreams.