Highland Park community supports Cooper Roberts at benefit hockey game
HIGHLAND PARK, Ill (CBS) — More than two years ago, Cooper Roberts was paralyzed following the Highland Park Fourth of July shooting.
On Sunday, his community came together to help support his hockey team.
Cooper is a member of the Chicago Hornets sled hockey team, where players use a sled and two sticks to get around on the ice. The sport follows the same rules as regular hockey, but it's modified for players with physical disabilities.
The Hornets played Highland Park High School's hockey team in a benefit game. All proceeds from the event will go to the Hornets sled hockey team.
The love of the game has brought joy to 10-year-old Roberts. He said the biggest challenge on the ice is to keep from being hit.
"Getting hit sucks," Roberts said.
"It's so gratifying to watch this player get out there and enjoy themselves and be athletes and be like everyone else and play a great game," said J.J. O'Connor, who founded the team.
Roberts had a great game, scoring three goals.
"They're all coming here to support me, even my teacher," he said. "They are all here to support me and I'm happy they can do that."
For more information about the team, including how to donate, visit HornetSledHockey.org.