Landon Uthke is Coming to Terms with the Reality of Joining the U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey Team

When the U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey Team revealed its preliminary roster on January 2, Landon Uthke was not included.

However, there were still three positions open on the final roster. Uthke was aware that he might have a chance to travel to Italy, though he did not anticipate it. Then, on January 14, Dan Brennan, the general manager of the U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey Team, contacted Uthke to inform him that he had secured a spot for the Milan-Cortina Games.

“I was honestly kind of shocked,” Uthke stated. “I felt like I didn’t perform my best at the beginning, but they recognized something in me that I didn’t see in myself, and it’s just a wonderful feeling.”

A defenseman at 18 years old from Albert Lea, Minnesota, Uthke had previously been part of the U.S. Men’s Development Sled Hockey Team before receiving his first chance with the national team at the International Para Hockey Cup in Ostrava, Czechia, in October. In December, he had another opportunity at the Para Hockey Cup in Dawson Creek, British Columbia.

Uthke, who identifies as a stay-at-home defenseman, was one of three players added to the roster in mid-January, alongside forwards Brett Bolton and Kevin McKee.

“It’s different,” Uthke remarked. “I haven’t been the new guy on the team for a while, but it’s a good feeling. There are many veterans, which makes me feel at home and comfortable.”

Uthke contributed two assists in the team’s 13-0 win over Germany. The U.S. also triumphed over China, 7-1, to move on to the semifinal match against Czechia on Friday (9:35 a.m. ET on USA Network).

Part of his comfort stems from spending two years on the developmental team. Additionally, the presence of Liam Cunningham contributes to his ease.

Uthke and Cunningham, a 17-year-old from River Falls, Wisconsin, met years ago while playing for the Minnesota Wild sled hockey team and developed a close friendship. They are now both making their Paralympic debut together in Italy.

<p“Growing up with him, the dream was always to play at this level together, and knowing that dream is coming true so early in our careers is amazing,” Uthke expressed.

At the age of three, Uthke underwent an amputation of his left leg following a lawnmower accident. Once he was able to resume normal childhood activities, his family discovered a social media post seeking individuals to try sled hockey. After watching his sister play traditional hockey, Uthke was eager to get on the ice himself.

“I fell in love, like right away,” Uthke shared.

This was a significant step for a young boy adapting to life without one of his legs.

“I enjoyed competing and just having fun,” Uthke noted. “I loved watching hockey, and when I got to play in my own way, it was just a fantastic experience.”

Now, sled hockey represents a pathway to new opportunities he never envisioned.

“It means the world,” Uthke stated. “I didn’t think I’d ever be here. I really don’t know where I would be if I hadn’t found sled hockey.”

Uncertain of what lay ahead, Uthke donned the USA jersey for the first time in Czechia. He made sure to savor the moment—“I got goosebumps”—and took a photo to send back home to his mother in Minnesota.

“It was super surreal,” said Uthke, who wears No. 11. “It felt like a mini I-made-it moment, the first time putting on the USA jersey. Representing my country is a tremendous honor.”

Uthke is now experiencing that honor again at the Paralympics. His parents and some family members are present in Italy.

Beyond his games, Uthke is eager to explore a new location and enjoy his first Paralympic experience.

While still acclimating to his new role, Uthke mentioned that he has been absorbing the guidance provided by the seasoned players on the roster.

“Slowing the game down and being present in the moment,” Uthke said regarding the advice from teammates. “And having a short memory. If you have a bad shift, forget about it. Move on. Aim to perform better in the next shift.”

Uthke can continue to rely on the insights of 13 players on the U.S. roster with Paralympic experience.

“It’s still kind of just insane, but it’s definitely sinking in,” Uthke remarked. “I’m one of the best players in my country. I can compete with these guys. It’s just crazy.”

Story from Red Line Editorial, Inc.

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