Against All Odds: St. George's Desert Rats Triumph in Roller Hockey Championship
In the unlikeliest of places, amidst the arid landscapes of St. George, Utah, a team forged not only a path to victory but also a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Known affectionately as the Labeda Desert Rats, this ragtag group of hockey enthusiasts recently achieved what seemed improbable, if not impossible, by clinching victory at the Western Regionals of the North American Roller Hockey Championships in Corona, California.
The Birth of the Desert Rats
In a place where ice is a rarity and roller rinks are unheard of, Brandon Ennen and his hockey comrades took an audacious leap. Inspired by the sticks of Ennen’s father, remnants of a hockey past in South Dakota, a community team was born. “Probably about four years ago, I just decided that we had enough guys that were interested in playing hockey,” Ennen mused. Their homemade rink at J.C. Snow Park, utilizing discarded equipment from a demolished ice arena, became their sanctuary and training ground.
From Makeshift to Magnificent
Teammate Cameron Wolsleger reflects on their essence: “A desert rat is what we all are.” It was this relentless spirit and camaraderie that fueled their journey. The team, funded and named by corporate sponsor Labeda, embraced their unique identity and set out to achieve the impossible.
Overcoming the Odds
Arriving in California, the Desert Rats were met with a new world. From the cracked concrete at J.C. Snow Park to the sleek Sport Court surfaces of the Rinks of Corona, the transition was daunting. After an initial setback against the host team, the Corona Bulldogs, the Rats dug deep, shutting out subsequent opponents with tenacity and grit.
A Season of Unlikely Heroes
The championship game saw them once again facing the Bulldogs. With the support of Ennen’s wife Sheri, the ever-present “team mom,” and their community spirit, the Rats played not just for victory, but for the joy of the game. And when the dust settled, their proud smiles were matched by the gold medals they won.
Pursuing the Passion
Though qualified for nationals, the team decided to bask in their current triumph. “We have our day jobs and don’t have the funds to compete,” Ennen noted. Yet, their story remains a celebration of community and resilience, a testament to doing the improbable with what you have.
According to FOX 13 News Utah, the story of the Desert Rats ignites hope in fans across the nation.
The Legacy of the Labeda Desert Rats
This tale of grit and glory is not just about winning, but about the heart and soul of a team. The Desert Rats, with their makeshift rink and undying spirit, prove that where there’s passion, there are no boundaries. Their journey is a reminder that dreams crafted in the desert can turn into golden victories.
Every puck they shoot, every game they play, keeps the dream alive - for themselves and for all those who dare to dream big, desert or not.
