In this episode, I'm joined by former London Phoenix Flyers, Richmond Flyers, Southampton Vikings, Cleveland Bombers and Slough Jets netminder Charlie Colon, whose 20-year career made him one of the most recognisable goalies of British hockey's lower divisions and a highly successful coach and administrator.
Raised in New York City's Hell's Kitchen, Charlie grew up playing roller hockey before moving to the UK at just 15 years old. Unaware that ice hockey even existed in Britain, he earned a trial at Richmond Ice Rink and was quickly signed by the London Phoenix Flyers, lining up alongside future legends including Gary Stefan and Monty Wise.
After a brief return to the USA for college, Charlie came back to the UK and progressed to the Premier Division with the Southampton Vikings, where his "British-trained" status proved invaluable. Despite relegation, Charlie earned All-Star B Team honours in a season highlighted by a famous win over the Nottingham Panthers.
Further Premier Division experience followed with the Cleveland Bombers, before a defining move to the newly formed Slough Jets in 1986. What began as a leap of faith turned into a 13-year association, including Division 1 championships, promotion to the Premier Division, and eventually a BNL League Championship as rookie head coach.
Following retirement, Charlie enjoyed further coaching success with the Basingstoke Bison, winning back-to-back Benson & Hedges Plate titles, before transitioning into rink management and hockey operations with Planet Ice.
Now based in the USA, Charlie continues his hockey journey as Director of Group Sales with the Norfolk Admirals, where, as he puts it, he's responsible for "putting bums on seats."
