The Palisades Recreation Center began its roller hockey league season by christening its refurbished portable rink last Friday. The new rink features a repaired, straighter asphalt surface and re-striping. There are also new goals, new goalie gear and a new spectator viewing area. The co-ed program, which serves ages 5-13, plays fall, winter and spring seasons. Program Director Ethan Rill is hoping the new rink will help increase enrollment in the league after several players graduated to ice hockey. “At least 25 kids who played roller hockey in the Palisades are playing ice hockey now,” Rill said. “With the veteran players moving on, now is a great time for beginners to join the league.” New Park Director Erik Haas has been very supportive of the enhancements to the roller hockey program. Hass said he was eager to promote sports beyond the typical choices of baseball, basketball, soccer, and football. Roller hockey is a great sport for athletes who prefer constant movement. “After a long week at school, it is so nice that these kids can come out here and go fast, crash into the boards, and blow off some steam” said local teacher Bruce Harlan, a parent volunteer with the league. Although roller hockey appears to be a rough sport, pads, helmets and face cages prevent almost all injuries. “Kids collide and fall down constantly, but they just get up and keep playing,” Harlan said. “The league is even open to kids who do not yet know how to skate. As long as you have some in-line skates, you can come to the park and Ethan [Rill] will teach you to skate.” Many of the players on the current roster could barely stand on skates in September, but now they are more focused on scoring goals, than they are in staying upright. For more information on roller hockey at the Rec Center, log on to westlahockey.com or visit the Rec Center and speak with Rill or Haas.
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