When one door closes, the next one that opens is usually one of greater opportunity.

George Poirier experienced this at the beginning of the 2023-24 season and is now on the verge of playing 100 games in the NAHL with the Colorado Grit.

To make the 2024-25 season even sweeter, Poirier has also been named to the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, an annual event that goes down next week in Plymouth, Mich.

“My opportunity to sign with the Grit came at the (NAHL) showcase last year,” said Poirier, an Arvada native. “I was released from a team in the AJHL right after camp. I was looking for a team to play for and the Grit needed some help on forward. I called David Clarkson and we made the signing happen from there.

“Playing close to home is an amazing experience. It’s not too close, so I still get the billeting and junior experience, but it’s close enough to be able to go home on weekends or days off. My parents are also able to attend almost every game, which is amazing, too.”

Poirier said the game of hockey has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember.

“I started playing hockey when I was four,” he said. “My parents had played and were looking for a sport for me. I just fell in love with the game and will continue playing as long as I can.”

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

“My best memories from hockey in Colorado are from the Quebec Qualifier,” said Poirier. “Playing in the tournament for Arvada and winning was amazing. That year, we ended up getting sent to Finland and Sweden instead of Quebec. It was still an amazing experience the Avalanche provided.”

Looking ahead, Poirier has lofty aspirations set for himself.

“My goal with hockey is to play NCAA Division I,” said Poirier. “I want to continue to develop and play in the playoffs this year with the Grit as well.”

Photo/@kristylourancephotography

— Matt Mackinder

(February 13, 2025)