Meet Allie

Allie's journey with sled hockey hasn't been without its challenges. A year into her time with the team, she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis (AS), conditions that regularly impact her daily life, but are "invisible" to the rest of the world. Starting as an athlete who didn't need accommodations and then adjusting to the reality of living with chronic illness created many new obstacles for Allie - physically, mentally, and socially. 

"It was hard. I had to learn not only how to adjust to my illness, but also how to play in a sled. It was not comfortable at first, but [my teammates] have helped me through everything," said Allie. 

Despite having a chronic condition, Allie never lets it hold her back. She continues to push herself on the ice, proving that she can handle the intensity of the sport and live up to the expectations of her all-male teammates. 

As the team's only female player, Allie constantly challenges herself to improve and keep up with her primarily male teammates. " I thought people would think I was crazy for playing on an all-guys hockey team, but I was not scared at all," said Allie.

Her determination and resilience is recognized by the people around her, including those who cheer her on during games. She recalls one instance where a player's friend approached her and was so excited that she had scored a goal. 

"He was losing his mind, and everyone was cheering me on. It was so cool that I had people rooting for me that I didn't even know," Allie recalled. 

Travling with the team to places all over the region has only deepened Allie's love for the sport and the Turnstone community. The team travels often during the season for tournaments. Last season, Allie traveled to Philadelphia in April 2024 for the Sled Hockey National Championship Tournament where the team placed third against the top teams in the nation. 

For Allie, Turnstone isn't just a place to practice - it's a community where she feels understood, supported, and empowered. Though she spends most of her time off-site at the Parkview Ice  House and the Thunder Ice Arena at Trine University, Turnstone has become a second home, where she can grown and thrive, both on and off the ice. 

"The people here at Turnstone are so amazing, and I look up to them so much. I love hearing everyone's stories because we all have unique stories, but there's a lot we have in common, too."

Allie's story is a testament to the power of community and the impact that Turnstone has on the lives of people with disabilities. Her journey reminds us that disabilities can look different for everyone, and yet, with the right support, anything is possible. 

Your donation to Turnstone allows athletes like Allie to step into their Achievement Era with the opportunities, resources, and encouragement they need to reach their full potential. 

You can read more about Allie in this article written by 21Alive reporter, Andy Newman.