Declan Farmer, a 28‑year‑old sled hockey player from Tampa, Florida, has been named USA Hockey’s Disabled Athlete of the Year after a record‑breaking season that saw him top the scoring charts at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games. He helped the United States secure its fifth consecutive Paralympic gold, adding victories at the IPH Cup and the Para Hockey Cup, and finished the tournament with 15 goals and 26 points, setting new records for a single Games.
Farmer’s dominance is not new; he debuted with the national team at 14, has competed in four Paralympics, and now stands as the all‑time leader in goals, assists and points at the Paralympic level, with 36 goals and 30 assists accumulated over his career.
Beyond the scoresheet, he is celebrated for mentoring younger teammates, fostering an inclusive environment, and recently being elected to a four‑year term on the International Paralympic Committee Athletes’ Council, where he will represent athletes on the IPC Governing Board.
Honors and Future Plans
He will be honored at the USA Hockey President’s Awards Dinner on June 5 in Denver, an event that will also highlight his broader impact on the growth of sled hockey and his commitment to continuously improve, both on the ice and through his coaching staff. The recognition comes at a pivotal moment as Farmer balances his competitive drive with a light‑hearted approach, aiming to push his game to new heights while guiding the next generation of players.