Cal Poly’s roller hockey club team is ranked second in Division I this season and will likely go on to regional and national championships, senior Mike Albo, a team member, said.
The team competes in tournaments every weekend against various CSUs and community colleges, traveling throughout the state to places like Davis, San Jose and Los Angeles.
“It’s a break from school, keeps my mind from going crazy,” Albo said.
There are currently 36 members and practice takes place at the Central Coast Sports Arena in Santa Maria every week because Cal Poly lacks the necessary facilities.
“It would be nice (to have facilities) but that kind of got shot down when one of the referendums didn’t pass,” said Patrick Moyer, vice president of the team.
The referendum to have a more expansive Rec Center where the roller hockey team would be able to practice was voted against a few years ago.
“It’s a hassle, but we carpool,” Albo said.
UC Santa Barbara is the only school on the West Coast with its own hockey rink on-campus, where Cal Poly also competes in tournaments.
The club team is only allotted about 15 to 20 percent of its budget from the Sport Club Council, and the rest is accomplished by fundraising and member dues.
Tournament attendance is comprised mostly of Cal Poly alumni living in the areas they compete, where they play four teams.
“I just love the game,” said Moyer, who has been playing since age 9.
Moyer said that most members play for fun and have experience with ice hockey as well.
To learn more about the team and upcoming tournaments, visit www.wchrl.com.