Community Rallies to Help Stranded Rogue Valley Junior Hockey Team

Medford, Oregon – The Rogue Valley Royals, a local junior hockey team, found themselves stranded in Nevada after their bus broke down during their return journey from a playoff tournament. The incident occurred in a remote area near Elko, leaving the team without lodging and transportation. However, the community has rallied together to support their safe return home.

The team, en route from Vernal, Utah, faced challenges when their bus malfunctioned around 6 pm on Sunday evening, leaving them stranded on a desolate stretch of highway in Nevada. Rogue A Valley Royals Coach led the players to a nearby rest stop, as night fell and winter weather conditions set in.

Located halfway between Elko and Winnemucca, NV, and far from any major urban center, the team found help from a Nevada State Trooper who facilitated contact with a local Nevada company. Generously, the company provided transportation, ferrying the team 45 minutes back to Elko, where they found accommodations for the night.

Despite efforts by the team’s staff to fix the bus issue, the bus was deemed non-repairable, leaving the team without transportation. However, the Royals’ staff initiated a GoFundMe campaign to aid in their return. The response has been overwhelming, with donations surpassing $10,500 as of the latest count.

While the loss of the bus presents unforeseen financial and logistical hurdles, the team remains resolute in their determination to bring their players safely back to Medford. With today earmarked for their anticipated return, efforts continue to address the immediate needs of the team while planning for future seasons.

Team officials released the following statement: “Any money we raise beyond what is needed to bring the boys home, will go directly into securing a new bus for next season. Thank you, we appreciate the support and concern. It means more than you all know.”

As of Tuesday night, the Rogue Valley Royals were on their way back to Medford.