For Evans native Barton, 2025-26 season in KIJHL one of development, opportunity

Quintin Barton spent the last three seasons playing for Resurrection Christian High School and knew when he graduated in 2025 that he wasn’t finished playing hockey.

Last summer, the Evans native signed with the KIJHL’s Spokane Braves and has been loving every minute of the current 2025-26 season in the state of Washington.

“The opportunity to play in Spokane came around when my advisor reached out and sent over some film,” said Barton. “The Braves invited me to main camp and signed me shortly after. What appealed about the team and the league is that the team has a super long history and is the only American team in the league, which I thought was super cool. The league is a great developmental league with a lot of fans and great community. Gives good opportunity to move up the ladder.

“The team is in a good spot right now. We didn’t start the season how we wanted to, but growing together, working hard, and picking up a couple new guys has really brought it together. We are currently sitting in a playoff spot. I’m doing good this season and was awarded the rookie of the week in the beginning of January. The atmosphere is great, the teams have great fan bases, and I enjoy playing in front of the crowds.”

Back home, Barton played for the Greeley Bears and the NCYH Jr. Eagles through youth hockey and then three years with Resurrection Christian.

“Coaches that stood out to me were my coaches last year, Mcallaster Miller and Tyler Weber,” Barton said. “They always pushed me to better myself and never once doubted my abilities.”

Looking ahead, Barton has his eyes on immediate and long-term goals, both on and off the ice.

“My short-term goals for right now would be to make the Teck Cup playoffs,” said Barton. “I also want to move up and play in a Tier I league next year. My long-term goals are going to college to play hockey and study towards a doctorate degree in veterinary medicine.”

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