Garrett Lindsey grew up playing for the Colorado Springs Tigers and Colorado Rampage and will soon take a familiar path to junior hockey.

Recently, the Colorado Springs native signed an NA3HL tender with the Helena Bighorns, a common destination for Colorado-born hockey players.

“I was lucky enough to be connected with Mike Greene and after a few phone calls, they offered me a tender,” said Lindsey. “The camaraderie among the players, the unity to win, and fellow teammates with positive experiences with Helena attracted me. Very cool that they are the champs, too.”

Earlier this week, Helena won the Fraser Cup national championship, the organization’s first title.

This year with the Rampage 18U AAA team was a “great season,” according to Lindsey.

“We worked together as a team and supported one another through our ups and downs,” Lindsey said. “Personally, I was given the opportunity to play as both a forward and defenseman. This opportunity allowed me to work on a variety of my skills. I am grateful to Coach (Brett) Clark for seeing that ability in me.”

Growing up, hockey came naturally to Lindsey.

“Funny story,” said Lindsey. “Hockey started at Skate City with inline. A free pair of skates and stick and I never looked back. I started playing at age five. I played for the Colorado Springs Tigers and then made my way to Rampage. I have taken away many lessons from my coaches over the years. Pat Bingham and Andrew Sherman impacted my development and confidence with their support and encouragement when I made the Rampage team in 2020.

“Hockey has certainly allowed for many memories. However, going to USA Hockey Nationals last year will always be a great memory and accomplishment with my teammates.”

Looking ahead, Lindsey has simple goals in mind.

“While I haven’t figured out everything for the future, I do know I want to play hockey as long as I can, juniors and college for sure,” Lindsey said.

Photo provided by Garrett Lindsey

— Matt Mackinder

(March 30, 2024)