Trey Hirschfield joined the Ogden Mustangs at the tail-end of the 2021-22 USPHL season and put up solid numbers.

The Littleton native played three games for the Mustangs, including one in the playoffs, after playing the prior 2020-21 season with the NA3HL’s Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks.

Now, he’s all set to hit the ground running in Utah for the 2022-23 campaign.

“I loved being in Ogden to close out the 2021-22 season and knew it was a great fit for me,” Hirschfield said. “The coaches, the fans, they all made me super excited to come back and I’m lucky enough to be able to. The team is a great group of guys and Ogden has such a great sense of community. I just love everything about it. I’m excited to start the season, can’t wait to be on the ice with the team and Ogden is not that far from home for me, so it’s a great fit. 

“Everyone really pushed each other to play their best. It was an awesome team environment and personally, I felt so at home in Ogden, truly felt like I belonged.”

Ogden head coach Kenny Orlando has high hopes for Hirschfield this season.

“Trey being ready from the start of the season will be a game-changer for us,” Orlando said. “He is such an athletic netminder whose junior experience will help our locker room immensely.”

Hirschfield is anxious to get back to Ogden and get the season rolling.

“Last season taught me that no matter what, you have to work hard,” said Hirschfield. “No matter the situation, be prepared and ready to go. I think the USPHL gives kids so many opportunities. Playing in college is a dream but being able to be a part of communities who just love hockey is really amazing, too.”

Growing up, Hirschfield played for the Foothills Flyers, Colorado Thunderbirds, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders and Valor Christian High School.

“Being coached by George Gwozdecky (at Valor) is something that will always be special,” Hirschfield said. “Coach Gwozdecky knows so much about the sport and playing for him helped me grow as both a player and a person.”

This season, Hirschfield has reachable goals for the Mustangs.

“My short-term goal is to just get back on the ice and connect with the team,” said Hirschfield. “It will be awesome seeing old friends and meeting all the new players. Long-term goal is to help bring a championship to Ogden.”

Photo/Jonny Berry

— Matt Mackinder

(August 24, 2022)