Utahs Hockey History: Rollerbees [Video]

SALT LAKE CITY – The third installment of the “History of Utah Hockey” series is about the sport’s “side hustle,” roller hockey.

Utah Rollerbees

The Utah Rollerbees were one of 12 teams to play in the initial season of Roller Hockey International in 1993. Like most teams in the RHI, the Rollerbees’ roster featured minor league hockey players, mostly Salt Lake Golden Eagles, like Rich Chernomaz, Rick Lessard, Brett and Todd Harkins, and Paul Skidmore.

The teams would hold open tryouts to fill the rest of the roster with people who had previously played roller hockey at the recreation level.

Former Rollerbees on playing in RHI

“Growing up in Phoenix, there wasn’t a ton of ice back then. As soon as rollerblades were available, everyone bought a pair and we skated virtually daily. Tennis courts, basketball courts, any place we could find a big open slab,” former Rollerbee James Burdett told KSL Sports.

Coached by former …