Josh Pashley sees things through a realistic lens.

And the Thousand Oaks, Calif., native now living in Castle Rock is thrilled with what he sees with the USPHL’s Colorado Fighting Elk, a team he recently signed with for the 2024-25 season.

“The opportunity arose when I was finished at a main camp in Utah and I decided it might just be best to look closer to home, so I reached out to the Fighting Elk,” Pashley said. “What appeals to me about the team is the inaugural season and all the high-level coaching this team has. What appeals to me about the USPHL is the area and levels that you have to grow and learn about the game and the chance to play collegiate hockey.

“I look forward to growing as a hockey player and a person off the ice and learning what it is like to play at a high, competitive level. I expect to adjust quick and learn what it is like to play at the high level the USPHL has to offer.”

Growing up, Pashley’s love for the game began in his home state.

“I got started at age seven with ‘Try Hockey for Free’ and I loved the game ever since stepping on the ice,” said Pashley. “The Avs were a favorite team of mine and they always played a role in the love I had for the game. I have always been a Kings fan, though. They helped grow the love for the game when I was young and they had won their two Stanley Cups.”

Once Pashley started developing his game, there was no looking back. He played for the Colorado Rampage, MHA, Littleton Hawks and Castle View High School.

“I have had plenty of coaching throughout the years and I would say they all stood out in their own way and have all had a positive influence,” Pashley said. “They all teach the game a different way and taught me how to play in different areas. This last season (with Castle View) was a good season. I got to learn and grow as a player and it helped me to prepare by teaching me how to learn a whole new game and showed me what I need to do to be impactful.”

Moving forward, Pashley is keeping his goals at a reasonable level.

“My short-term goals are to learn and take my hockey and development to the next level every year and train to be better all the time,” said Pashley. “My long-term goals would be to make sure I am set for my life. Maybe if the road takes me to college, get a degree and learn a new skill.”

Photo/Sam Beveridge 

— Matt Mackinder

(August 18, 2024)