About STARskaters
Jim O'Neill (1959-2021) was passionate about hockey in all forms, as a player, referee, broadcaster, coach, and organizer. Above all, he wanted everyone to enjoy the game as much as he did; understanding that it's not so much about winning and losing but about sharing time with friends and family and experiencing the pure joy of racing around the ice with a puck and a stick or two. Possibly his greatest talent was making every single person feel special and welcome, even if he was wearing stripes and escorting them to the penalty box at the time.
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Created in 2008, Jim O'Neill's vision for STARskaters was to provide an inclusive on-ice experience for people via two programs - Skate Therapy for stand-up skating instruction for individuals with a broad range of physical and developmental disabilities and Sled Hockey, providing opportunities to learn and compete in the Paralympic sport. The Houston Hellhounds Sled Hockey team has competed in many Texas and national tournaments and contributed players to both the Men's and Women's Team USA national programs.​
Jim and his wife, Lilia, worked tirelessly to grow the STARskaters program both with outreach endeavors to recruit more participants and in fundraising efforts like the STARskaters 3v3 Tournament, run every year until Jim's passing in 2021.
We are very pleased to bring back the STARskaters 3v3 tournament for 2026 in Jim’s honor and add two exhibition sled hockey games between the Houston Hellhounds and the Dallas Sled Stars.
Hosted at Bellerive Ice Rink on Saturday, July 18, this will be an all-day event celebrating Jim and his program and the athletes who carry on his legacy of inclusivity, positivity, and the pure joy of hockey.
We look forward to hosting the 1st Annual Jim O’Neill Memorial STARskaters 3v3 Tournament, welcoming back the players who participated year after year and new players who want to join the fun and support their local Hellhounds!
Tournament Partners
Beverage Partner
"Any place can be cool with a Frost Town beer in hand!" And that goes double when it's at the ice rink! We are grateful for the support of Frost Town Brewing and their donation of frosty beverages for players and fans (21+) to enjoy.
Beverage Partner
Stepping in to help Houston Hockey once again is Texas' Oldest Craft Brewery! We appreciate the beverage donation and the continuing partnership with Saint Arnold Brewing Company!
JOIN THE TEAM!
STARskaters and the Houston Hellhounds are always looking for new partnerships! Reach out to us to see how you can help.
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