When Garrett Bogan wrapped up his high school season in 2021 playing for Doherty, he wondered if he would have a chance to play junior hockey and continue to develop his game.

In short, that answer became a resounding “yes” over the summer of 2021.

“I went to the Colorado Springs Tigers ID camp and my old coach, Will English, mentioned my name to the (NA3HL’s) Helena Bighorns and I ended up signing a few weeks later,” Bogan said. “I’ve come back for two more seasons after that. Surprisingly, the only Springs guys I knew before playing up here this season were Gavin Barr and Joe Feamster, but it’s fun exchanging stories with the other Springs guys about mutual people we’ve interacted with.

“I haven’t played with Gavin since I was 12 or 13, but it’s been fun getting to live with him and play hockey together every day. It’s awesome to see how good he’s gotten and being there to watch him tender to the NAHL (with the Anchorage Wolverines) was exciting for me.”

Bogan has learned to embrace hockey and the off-ice atmosphere in the Montana town.

“This organization treats you like a pro and expects you to act the same,” said Bogan. “They will provide just as much as you are willing to put out. The community supports the team so much and you get recognized a lot when you are out and about. Living away from home has been great. The billets are awesome and made it an easy transition from living at home.”

Going back a few years, Bogan said he initially started playing roller hockey.

“My first experience playing hockey was when my oldest brothers played mini hockey,” said Bogan. “They would throw me in the net and shoot foam pucks at me. Later when I was three, I started playing inline hockey at my local skate city in Colorado Springs. I played roller until I was 12.”

He then played for the Green Mountain Falls Catamounts until he was 15 before suiting up for Doherty.

“I learned a lot from Matt Zubiel about the basics of the game and good sportsmanship,” Bogan said. “He also made me more confident in my play and trust myself more. In high school, Will English helped me understand the game of hockey at a higher pace and how to use my teammates more effectively.

“All the friends I was able to make while playing for different team teams will always stay with me.”

With the Bighorns in the final six of the Fraser Cup playoffs, Bogan wants to end his last junior hockey season on a winning note before moving on to the next chapter of his career.

“I’m hoping to bring the Fraser Cup to Helena at the end of the season,” said Bogan. “After the season, I am planning on playing ACHA hockey and working to get a degree in business.”

Photo/G Marshall

— Matt Mackinder

(March 15, 2024)