You could almost say Gavin Brindley was born to be a pro hockey player.
On Thursday afternoon in Nashville, that dream came a step closer to reality.
The Estero native who played his freshman season at Michigan was selected 34th overall, 2nd in the second round by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2023 NHL Draft. The forward scored 12 goals and 26 assists for the Wolverines, who reached the Frozen Four.
If the name Brindley sounds familiar, it should to Southwest Florida hockey fans.
Early Days:Estero hockey players Gavin Brindley, Seamus Casey representing USA at Youth Olympics
Ryan Brindley, Gavin's father, played in 160 games for the Florida Everblades from 2003-2007 during his nine-year pro career and has been a mainstay coaching local and state youth hockey since his retirement.