Flodell with the Portage Terriers. (Submitted photo/Nathan Flodell)

By Nolan Kowal

Going for gold

P.A.’s Flodell ready to represent Canada at hearing impaired tournament

Apr 10, 2024 | 10:44 AM

Prince Albert will have some representation at the upcoming Jeff Sauer International Deaf Hockey Series in Buffalo, New York.

P.A. born Nathan Flodell is a member of Team Canada at the tournament, which begins on Thursday.

The Canadian men’s team will compete against the Czech Republic, Finland, and the host U.S.

This will be the second time Flodell has played for Team Canada after representing his country back in 2022.

“I am very excited to be back with the Canadian Men’s Deaf Hockey team and to be able to represent Canada in Buffalo,” Flodell said in an email. “My expectation for the tournament is to help Canada win all of our games and bring Gold home for the first time in 20 years.”

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Flodell said he started playing hockey at four years old and previously spent time at the Junior A level with the Portage Terriers and Flin Flon Bombers.

Flodell’s parents Mike and Carla can’t make it to Buffalo to watch in person but will be following the tournament closely online.

They said nothing has come easy for their son in his hockey career.

“We are extremely proud of Nathan and how he has overcome adversities and such in his life and his hockey career,” his parents said in an email. “Despite having skills similar to others, it seemed that he had to excel more to be given opportunities.”

“We feel that these tournaments are a very good step towards providing inclusion in hockey to people with hearing disabilities. It allows them to play and compete with other athletes who have the same disability and promotes good friendships for life.”

Flodell and Team Canada open their tournament Thursday against Finland. The event runs until Sunday and also includes a women’s division with Canada and the U.S.

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nolan.kowal@pattisonmedia.com