Earlier this offseason, the Parker native signed with the Fighting Elk to start his junior hockey career in 2024-25.

“I saw the team was new to Colorado and then Anderson Stark encouraged me to reach out,” Danko said. “I am stoked to play for them. I’ll like being close to home and being a part of a new organization. I’m looking forward to all the ice time, the games, and to travel to play. I also know I am going to have to work a lot harder not only on the ice but off ice, too.”

Growing up, hockey became a passion of Danko’s from a young age.

“When I was really young, my mom really wanted me to play hockey, so I tried it and then fell in love with the game,” said Danko. “I have loved the Avs since I was young. I started off with the Littleton Hawks, then moved to Krivo, then finally to Chaparral. Coach Richie Nelson was a huge impact on my game as he made me a much better hockey player and brought my game together. Coach Tim Walsh with Chap was also a big coach in my career due to him always pushing me to be a better player on and off the ice and believing in me.

“Last season was pretty fun and the level of play got me ready for this upcoming season.”

Moving forward, Danko’s goals are simple and realistic.

“I hope to do well on the Colorado Fighting Elk and have a blast,” Danko said. “A long-term goal of mine is to try to make a run playing in juniors for my last couple years of hockey.”

Photo/Rylie Young/Hayden Lewis

— Matt Mackinder

(June 24, 2024)