Caden Grestini grew up playing youth hockey in Colorado and then for the past four years, has played at Boston Hockey Academy in Massachusetts.

The Thornton native will be staying in Beantown for the 2025-26 season after recently signing an NCDC tender with the Boston Jr. Bruins.

“The opportunity from the Jr. Bruins happened from them scouting me at a hockey tournament,” said Grestini. “I just stood out to them and they liked the way I played and I was on the radar from there. I think what appeals me about the Jr. Bruins is they’re a young team and it feels like I’ll get a lot of opportunities and chances to develop for my first year of juniors.”

“This past season was so crucial because I feel like I really grew as a hockey player.”

Growing up, Grestini said hockey was a family affair.

“I started playing hockey because of my dad,” Grestini said. “He played while he was growing up and really had a good career, so that motivated me to play hockey.”

Once the younger Grestini laced up the skates, he played for the Denver Jr. Pioneers, Hyland Hills Jaguars, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders and Colorado Evolution.

Moving forward, Grestini’s plans are twofold.

“My short-term and long-term goals are to play NCAA Division I hockey and to excel in school,” said Grestini.

Photo/Matt Bosco/Bosco Productions

— Matt Mackinder

(July 1, 2025)