Colorado Eagles player injured in motorcycle crash

Colorado Eagles defender Les Borsheim was severely injured in a motorcycle crash Sunday afternoon that could jeopardize his future in hockey.

Colorado State Patrol officers believe Borsheim was drinking at the time of the crash, at Weld County roads 60 1/2 and 55, approximately three miles east of Greeley.

Borsheim, 29, of Windsor was driving a red 1987 Harley Davidson west on Weld 60 1/2 when he failed to make a right-hand curve and went off the left side of the road, according to a release from the state patrol. He was ejected from the motorcycle and was not wearing a helmet. He was taken by helicopter to North Colorado Medical Center.

"It's a tough day," said Chris Stewart, head coach of the Eagles. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Les right now."

Borsheim was expected to survive the crash, but beyond that no one really knows, Stewart said. Borsheim sustained some head and possible neck injuries in the crash.

"I know he's just coming out of surgery and was seeing a neurosurgeon," Stewart said, "and when you have a neurologist working on you, you know there are some issues. I really don't have a clear-cut answer."

Borsheim faces charges of driving under the influence, careless driving and violating restrictions on a driver's license.

At 6-foot-2-inches and 220 pounds, Borsheim was a professional hockey player for six years who had been with the Eagles since 2005. He established himself as a fan favorite for his vicious hitting. He is originally from Saskatchewan, Canada.

Borsheim was just seen as a one-dimensional player, a tough guy, when he first joined the Eagles, Stewart said, but he had 22 points in 2007, a career high, and he was improving every year. The Eagles wrapped up their 2008 schedule last month.

"He came into our team and really grew," Stewart said. "He got better and better every year."

A somber Stewart said he was disappointed by the crash but continued to praise him as a player.

"I would have more Les Borsheims on our team," he said. "He added a lot of energy."