Former Bellingham Blazer Commits to Play Hockey at Utah Valley University
Learning to Love the Game of Hockey in Alaksa
Growing up in the picturesque town of Juneau, Alaska, accessible only by boat or plane, Brayden Baxter discovered his passion for hockey early on. Despite the challenges posed by his remote hometown, including a local rink that closes during the summer, Brayden's journey in the sport has been nothing short of impressive.
Brayden's love for hockey began when he was just six years old. By the time he turned eleven, his team needed a goalie, and Brayden eagerly volunteered for the position. He quickly fell in love with the intensity of being the last line of defense and loved the challenge of standing between the opposing player and the net.
Rising Through the Ranks of Alaskan Youth and High School Hockey
From his early years, Brayden played for the Juneau Capitals in the Juneau Douglas Ice Association house league, competing in various categories from U6 to U18. Initially, he played as a defenseman from U6 to U14, but from U12 to U18, he also took on the goalie role. This dual experience gave Brayden a solid hockey IQ and understanding of the game.
Joining the Bellingham Blazers to Play Jr. A
Before his senior year of high school, Brayden sought a new challenge and signed with the Bellingham Blazers, a Junior A-level team in Bellingham, Washington. This decision meant leaving behind the teammates he had grown up with, but Brayden was ready for the next step in his hockey career. His two years with the Blazers were life-changing as he was pushed to new levels and experiences.
Baxter as a Bellingham Blazer (Photo: Blazers)
A Shot at Playing College Hockey in Utah
After moving to Bellingham, Brayden found a second family in his billet parents, Larry and Grace MacDonald. Larry, the former General Manager of the Blazers during Brayden's first year, introduced him to key people in the hockey community, paving the way for his next opportunity. Through those connections and relationships, Brayden met the coach and general manager of Utah Valley University (UVU), where he will soon play college hockey.
Baxter as a Bellingham Blazer (Photo: Blazers)
"Baxter brings a solid work ethic and determination to be the best goalie in the ACHA. He is focused and dedicated to his craft, and I believe he can help Utah Valley University win games this season and get us to regionals," said UVU Head Coach Darin Peck.
As Brayden prepares to join UVU, he reflects on his journey. He is a competitive and positive team player, always ready to support his teammates. The friendships he has forged through hockey, nationally and internationally, have enriched his life.
"I am a competitive and positive team player who is supportive on the ice during a game, at practice, or when a team member needs a friend. I hope to help motivate my team to do their best and enjoy the process," said Baxter.
"I have met many friends from across the country and internationally while playing hockey. We come from many different backgrounds, know different tricks and tips yet come together with a common goal, to play the game we all love playing," Baxter continued.
Baxter and UVU will hit the ice for another American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) season this fall.
"I think this season will be the best one UVU has had. We have a solid group of guys with a team culture that values hard work, dedication, and helping each other become the best team we can be," Peck stated.
"This team is extremely young, so this is just the start of many great seasons moving forward. Our goal is to make a trip to our first regionals tournament by being in the top 14 in our division,” he continued.
For more on the Wolverines, check out their website.
Utah as a Hockey Market
Hockey is starting to gain momentum in Utah with the announcement of the NHL team in Salt Lake. The State has also seen the growth of college and junior hockey over the last several years.
