SENSORY GUIDE & RINK ACCESSIBILITY
Ice rinks are naturally loud, cold, and bright places. We want everyone to feel comfortable and safe at Queerclash, so we've put together this sensory guide for IceHQ so you know exactly what to expect before you even step through the doors.
PARA ICE HOCKEY 2027
We are actively exploring ways to integrate Para Ice Hockey into the 2027 Queerclash tournament. If you are a para athlete or organisation interested in collaborating, please get in touch.
SENSORY SPACES & SUPPORT
Tournaments are massive and the main rink can easily get overwhelming. If you need a break from the noise, the echoes, and the crowd, we will have a space set up away from the ice. It is a low stimulus area where you can just sit, regulate, and recharge. Just head in whenever you need to. We also have people to help support on site all weekend. If you need a hand finding the sensory space or just need someone to help you navigate the crowds, look for our crew in the queerclash lanyards. They are there specifically to make sure you have a good day.
ARENA NOISE & LIGHTING
PRE-PLAN YOUR VISIT ACCORDING TO SOUND AND LIGHT INTENSITY.
ARENA SENSORY & NOISE TIMELINE
We will publish the hour-by-hour noise schedule, low-sensory quiet skate times, and quiet room hours closer to the tournament alongside the match fixtures.
ARENA SOCIAL SCRIPT
Here is what will happen step-by-step when you visit IceHQ in Reservoir for Queerclash 2027 so there are no unexpected moments.
ARRIVING AT ICEHQ IN RESERVOIR
You will enter via the Blake St main entrance doors. The Queerclash Welcome Desk is immediately in the main foyer. Staff wear queerclash pride lanyards.
GETTING YOUR PLAYER KIT
Pick up your player/spectator kit and your color coded communication wristband (Green = Happy to chat, Yellow = Only people I know, Red = Need quiet space).
FINDING CHANGING ROOMS & RINKS
All changing rooms are designated gender-neutral. Showers are in change room 3 and 4. The rink is straight ahead.
TAKING A BREAK WHENEVER YOU NEED
You can leave the spectator spaces or player bench at any time and rest in a quiet space with zero questions asked.
THE WRISTBAND COMMUNICATION CODE
OPTIONAL WRISTBANDS TO SHOW YOUR SOCIAL ENERGY LEVEL WITHOUT HAVING TO EXPLAIN.
Happy to Chat
Open to anyone saying hello, introducing themselves, or starting a chat.
People I Know Only
Happy to talk with people I already know, or tournament staff who need to give instructions.
Need Quiet Space
Low on energy or overwhelmed. Please give me space and don't start conversations unless it's an emergency.
NEED SPECIFIC ACCOMMODATION SUPPORT?
If you have specific sensory, physical access, or communication requirements, contact our accessibility coordinators directly at hello@queerclash.com.