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Dave Gross

No whistles, no shouting for the puck, no heated exchanges with the officials . . . no sound at all.

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Not what you’d generally associate with the game of hockey, but it’s the standard for hundreds of hockey players across Canada.

Deaf hockey is not a new sport. The Canadian Deaf Hockey Ice Federation was founded in 1983; the national team program in 1986.

Here in Ottawa it is most notable for one of its biggest proponents, and several of its proponent’s closest family members. Jim Kyte — the first and only legally deaf NHL player has been an advocate for deaf sport — almost by default — since being drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in the first round in 1982.

“For sure. Back then I had to advocate for myself. I had to educate people, educate coaches on what I needed,” said Kyte whose 598-game career included a cup of instant coffee with the Senators in 1992-93, playing in all of four games. “Has it changed (now)? For sure. I am proud I could be a part of that.”