Interview with Andy Scinski, general manager
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: By accident. In 1997, I signed my oldest son up for an outdoor program in Littleton at Funplex. We had recently moved to Colorado and were involved in a hockey program in Florida. I shared some ideas with the owner and went home to my wife and said, “I found something for you to do … they need volunteers.” We got involved, stayed involved and the rest is history.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: We are a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization dedicated to providing an opportunity for all levels of roller hockey play and learning in a fun, safe and informed environment. Through our programs, athletes build self esteem and self discipline, team work, camaraderie and a respect for fellow players and a love for the game. It has been our experience that new players who are provided a good first experience to the game have become longtime players of the sport. We are one of the only rink roller hockey facilities operating in the state.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: A quality of life with my family and so many other families over the years. To have the ability be a part of and to watch players come into our program at a young age and see them now as adults is pretty awesome. The best part is that these adults are productive and doing great things within the community.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Our biggest challenge has been filling daytime hours. We have this great 54,500-square- foot facility housing two rinks and it is empty during the day until 4 p.m. during the week. We would really like to get the word out to the community that we have space for all kinds of use during this time.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: This year — as of June 9 — is our 10-year anniversary in our current location. Also, we offer a free youth learn-to-play program every Friday from 5- 6 p.m. We find that the initial cost of outfitting a player is a barrier, but with us, it does not have to be, as we have loaner skates and full equipment for participants to use at no cost.
Profile
Business: Rocky Mountain Roller Hockey League Inc.
Address: 3606 S. Independence St., Lakewood
Hours: 4-11 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, 3-10 p.m. Sunday; weekend times may vary pending events
Founded: 2001
Contact: 303-933-1680,
Employees: 6
