George Poirier spent the past two seasons with the NAHL’s Colorado Grit, developing his game to be ready for the college game.

Recently, the Arvada native committed to NCAA Division I Brown, where he will join Grit teammate Sheldon Rioux.

“I had been in contact with Brown University since the NAHL Top Prospects event and shortly after the season, they decided to make an offer to start the 2026-27 season as a freshman,” Poirier said. “Sheldon is an amazing person and player. Super excited to spend some more time playing with him.

“What attracted me to Brown was for sure the academic side of the school. I’ve always enjoyed pushing myself academically, so to get an opportunity to study and play at an Ivy League school was always a dream of mine.”

Playing for the Grit the past two years prepared Poirier for NCAA hockey and shaped him into an effective and more mature player.

“The South Division in the NAHL is an incredible physical and difficult place to play,” said Poirier. “Being in these situations night in and night out, constantly battling and pushing myself, has allowed me to take steps in my development I otherwise wouldn’t have.”

Looking ahead, Poirier said he’s excited for the offseason and to start planning for the 2025-26 season.

“For the summer, it’s back to the regular lifting and skating,” Poirier said. “Waiting to see what the future holds and am incredibly excited for the opportunity. Not 100% sure yet where I’ll play next season. Going to be patient and find the right spot to continue my development next year.”

In Colorado prior to the Grit, Poirier suited up for the Arvada Hockey Association and the Colorado Thunderbirds.

Photo/Kristi Lourance

— Matt Mackinder

(May 25, 2025)