MARLBOROUGH, Mass. - Billy Bridges scored three goals and assisted on two others as Canada thrashed Italy 11-0 in its opener at the world sledge hockey championship Saturday.

Greg Westlake, with two goals and an assist, Herve Lord, with a pair, Marc Dorion, Todd Nicholson, Ray Grassi and Graeme Murray had the goals for Canada, the defending Paralympic champion which is seeking gold at this event for the first time since 2004.

"We did a lot of good things offensively, made some great plays off the rush," said head coach Jeff Snyder. "Defensively, we got a little sloppy as the game went on.

"I hope it's because the game was so one-sided. That can happen sometimes but we'll need to be better."

Paul Rosen picked up the shutout, making three saves.

Santino Stillitano allowed seven goals in 38:57 of work, while Roberto Kanestrin finished up the 45 minutes and gave up four more.

Canada was 2-for-3 on the power play, something Snyder was pleased with.

"We've worked really hard on our power play and did a nice job on it," he said. "I think we're going to need later on in the week. We also did a good job using our speed to our advantage."

Next up for Canada is a tilt with Germany on Sunday.

"They were fourth at the Paralympics so they'll be a real good test for us," said Snyder. "But if we play our game we should be able to handle them."

Last weekend I was able to watch the Canadian Sledge Hockey team have their prep camp before they went to Malborough Mass for the World Championships. Great luck to all the participants. I will leave a link so you all can follow the results. Rod gave me a You Tube link to an AK with a skating. Really neat! Lastly when I was checking that out I found some videos about those Ossur Power knees. They are still expensive in both of our countries (120k) and unless you possess the resources your self to buy. Walter Reed and Brooke seem to be the only ones giving these out because insurance companies say the word deluxe just as they do with C-legs. Enjoy! 

 http://www.sledge2008.com/index.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zoE8wXKtE_M

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9kkhLW_C4Y&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAnI7cZr6is

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3S1M8XEWDLk&feature=related