Kai Gruenther played for the Arapahoe Warriors up until the 2020-21 season, when he joined the Cherry Creek High School team for his last three years of high school.

Next season, the Centennial native will again be on the move after recently signing to play junior hockey for the EHL’s Seahawks Hockey Club.

“I was able to gain an opportunity to join the Seahawks roster through the CCM Showcase (in Colorado),” Gruenther said. “I am excited to leave home and see what opportunities lie ahead in front of me. The game is only going to become quicker, which presents more opportunities for me to become a better player.

“I’m very excited to be playing in the EHL. They have a very strong reputation when it comes to moving players on to the next level. This motivates me to strive for greatness and the potential to play NCAA hockey.”

Gruenther said playing for Cherry Creek was a turning point in his career and “the coaching staff helped push me to reach my potential.”

“There are many great coaches in Colorado, including Neil Ruffini and the Creek coaching staff,” said Gruenther.

Moving ahead, Gruenther’s goals include more than what may happen on the ice.

“My short-term goal for hockey is to have a good season in the EHL and to potentially make the jump to a higher league in the future,” Gruenther said. “I hope to make many friends along the way. A long-term goal for me is to play NCAA hockey. It’s always been a big dream of mine. I aim to be successful in the classroom so that I can be successful on the ice.”

Photo/Steve Abeyta

— Matt Mackinder

(August 16, 2023)