Charlotte Checkers (1956–1977)

The Charlotte Checkers were a professional ice hockey team based in Charlotte, North Carolina, that existed from 1956 to 1977. They played primarily in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) and later the Southern Hockey League (SHL).

Founded in 1956, the Checkers were one of the original franchises of the revived EHL. The team quickly became a popular attraction in Charlotte, contributing to the growth of hockey in the Southern United States. They played their home games at the Charlotte Coliseum.

Throughout their tenure in the EHL, the Checkers achieved considerable success, winning several league championships. They were known for their exciting style of play and a roster that often included a mix of veteran players and up-and-coming prospects. Notable players who donned the Checkers' jersey include several future NHL players.

In 1973, the EHL folded, and the Checkers joined the newly formed Southern Hockey League (SHL). They continued to be a competitive force in the SHL, maintaining their local fanbase. However, the SHL faced financial challenges, and the original Charlotte Checkers ceased operations in 1977 when the league folded.

The team's legacy lives on in Charlotte's hockey history, paving the way for future iterations of the Checkers franchise and contributing to the overall growth and popularity of hockey in the city.