After Brian Gallagher was named American Collegiate Hockey Association Player of the Year and won the ACHA national title last year, he only had one thing to say: This is a dream come true.
When asked about his recent signing with the Mississippi Sea Wolves of the ECHL, Gallagher hadn't changed his opinion much.
This is a dream come true
Gallagher said. I get to wake up every morning and get paid to play hockey. It's a chance to play on a level just one stop beneath the big boys.
Gallagher, who went 23-2-1 with the Bobcats last season, said he feels he has a good shot at making the roster and earning some playing time.
There are a few young goalies on the team and the starting spot is open Gallagher said. That's a real opportunity for me. I'm just going to keep working for that.
As Gallagher gets set for his professional career, he stopped in Athens this week to practice with the Bobcats. Coach Dan Morris said that Gallagher's career is an achievement for the entire program.
When you look at a guy like Brian
from when he transferred here (from Kent State) to when he left
you see a completely different player
Morris said. That's a tribute to Brian
our program and the work our goalie coach put in.
Center Sean Gallagher, no relation, said Brian's move to the next level was a great thing for everyone involved in the program.
It gives our program the credibility it deserves
Sean Gallagher said. For a guy from our program to go to the ECHL is huge. We know it's not a common thing
but it's still pretty cool.
Gallagher said he was proud of moving up to the next level, but he knew that he was in for a big change.
I need to work on everything in my game
Gallagher said. The level of play is unreal. The best forwards from the ACHA won't get a chance to make it on this level. Everyone here is just a cut above. I'm pumped for that change
but I know I have to just keep getting better.
