Øystein Mellerud

Øystein Mellerud started out as a speed skater in his youth before becoming one of the best ice hockey goaltenders in Norway. Mellerud first played for Lyn-Kameratene when he was 13-years-old. By 1964 he had moved to the United States where he played five seasons with the Green Bay Bobcats, playing alongside the great John Mayasich. In 1969 Mellerud returned to Norway, winning three consecutive league championships with Hasle/Løren IL from 1972 to 1974.

Throughout the 1960s Mellerud represented Norway at multiple editions of the World Championships and the 1964 Innsbruck Olympics. During his career he became a fan-favourite and was the last Norwegian goaltender not to wear a facemask whilst playing. The game took a toll on his body, with him having to undergo seven knee operations, receive more than 400 stitches, and breaking more than 40 bones in his arms and legs. Despite all these injuries Mellerud was also a top speedway driver in the country, although one crash resulted in him being in a coma for 12 days.