Hockey thrives in the Desert: Yuma’s Youth Roller League

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - In one of the hottest cities in America, you wouldn't expect to find hockey sticks clashing and skates gliding but at Kennedy In-Line Skate Park, that’s exactly what happens four nights a week.

The Yuma roller hockey league is proving that passion for the sport can thrive anywhere, even under the Arizona sun.

Featuring teams from ages six to 18, the league competes across Arizona and California, offering local players a chance to grow both on and off the rink.

"This is a stepping stone to your future. It's more than just hockey it's the future here," said volunteer coach Casey Roloff, who grew up playing the sport in Canada and Washington state. "I wish there was ice hockey here in Yuma, but this is definitely the next best thing."

For many of Yuma's young athletes, hockey is about more than competition. It's about connection.

Aurora Weede, a Cibola High School student, said the sport helped her find her identity.

"I was met with so many new friendships," Weede said. "I found confidence in myself and realized that this is who I am."

Fellow player Collin Graham said watching the NHL inspired him to pick up a stick and dream big.

"I like hockey because of my coaches and teammates," Graham said. "I want other kids to play, to be inspired, and maybe make it to college or even the NHL one day."

For Travis Krisay, another volunteer coach, the growth of the league is personal.

"I was playing in this league when it first started," Krisay said. "Now, my brother and I are coaching our kids. It's been great to see the sport we love grow for these kids."

That growth is also opening doors for more girls to hit the rink. Hailey Henderson said she's proud to represent Yuma as one of the league’s female players.

"I think it's really cool, especially because not a lot of girls get to play hockey," Henderson said. "It makes me proud to show what girls can do."

As the season wraps up later this month, Yuma's young players and dedicated coaches are proving that even in the desert, hockey has a home and a future.