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At Home With Hockey

Colorado GRIT Comes Together to Help Youth Players Foster more than just Skills on the Ice

Article by Bethany Wiley

Photography by Kim Desmond and Kristy Lourance Photography

Originally published in Greeley Lifestyle

Based out of Greeley’s Ice Haus, the Colorado GRIT, Colorado’s first-ever North American Hockey League team (NAHL), is growing deep bonds among its members and staff.

Prior to the arrival of the GRIT, Colorado was lacking opportunities for young adult players to boost their visibility and improve their chances of earning a Division 1 school commitment or professional opportunity in the sport. The NAHL is the only USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier II Junior league, with 35 teams in 20 states across North America.

Between the ages of 16-20, NAHL athletes are provided the opportunity to develop, learn, train and grow.

Owner Bob Bowden, father of GRIT player Quinn Bowden, is not only grateful to provide hockey opportunities to youth players in Colorado, but he’s also blessed to mentor his son and encourage the team in becoming leaders of the future.

“We help to develop the players in the sport, while also teaching them to give back to the community by volunteering and acting as role models,” says Bob.

Bob emphasizes that the GRIT members operate out of a code of ethics, focusing on hard work, perseverance, discipline and (of course!) grit.

“The more we’re together, the more the trust and bond between the team grows," Bob says. "We are family.”

When you have an open Friday or Saturday night, gather with friends or family to experience the energy of a GRIT game, a gem in our community.

Visit ColoradoGritHockey.com for an up-to-date game schedule.

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