Bray Crowder wasn’t supposed to end up in Canberra. A seasoned defenceman with NCAA and ECHL experience, he came to Australia looking to reconnect with family and continue his hockey journey in Sydney. But, when the Ice Dogs withdrew from the AIHL for 2025, what could’ve been a dead end turned into a new opportunity. Now in Brave colours, Crowder has found not only a new team, but a professional-level environment, a championship contender, and a new hockey home.

Canadian Roots to Aussie Ice

Crowder’s story starts where many great professional hockey tales begin… on a frozen pond.

“I was three years old when I first put on skates and was bribed with chocolate bars to stay on the ice. I wasn’t a huge fan of hockey at first. It took a little while.”

It didn’t take long for that reluctant toddler to turn into a serious competitor. After starring in junior leagues, Crowder played NCAA hockey at Miami University before stepping into the pro ranks with the ECHL’s Cincinnati Cyclones and Adirondack Thunder. But after years in the Pro North American grind, a trip to Australia in 2024 changed everything.

“I was coming here to meet family in Sydney, and I figured what better way to explore a new city than through hockey.”

What was meant to be a visit turned into something deeper. “I felt like Australia was home, so I stayed here full time.”

A Change in Plans and a New Beginning

Crowder planned to rejoin the Sydney Ice Dogs in 2025, but when both Sydney teams were withdrawn from the AIHL, he was left searching for a new path.

“It’s not like Canada where there’s just another rink you can play at. I was not used to that. One rink goes down and there’s just no more hockey.”

But Canberra offered a lifeline. “Canberra was happy to help me make it work. I’d heard nothing but good things about the team, the club, and the city. And with my friends Cam Todd and Dom Čanić coming here, it just felt meant to be.”

Anchored on the Blue Line

Since joining the Brave, Crowder has been key on the blue line. With 19 points in 19 games, he’s producing in key moments, all while anchoring a defensive unit that has helped secure Brave’s position as second on the ladder.

“My season’s been good, but I think the team’s been great and that’s all that really matters. My contribution doesn’t matter unless we win a Goodall Cup.”

His role? Exactly what you’d expect from a seasoned pro.

“Just doing whatever I can to help the team win. Whether that’s being a big stay-at-home defenceman or helping out on the power play, I’m willing to contribute wherever possible.”

Professional Standards, Pro-Level Environment

Crowder isn’t shy about the level of professionalism he’s found in Canberra.

“It makes me feel like I’m back in North America playing in professional arenas. I would put it up there with a lot of places in North America. It’s run like a pro club, and everything about it has just been amazing on and off the ice.”

The Road to Finals

As the Brave prepare for the AIHL Finals, Crowder is locked in on the mission.

“We’ve got one more game against the Rhinos, then off to Melbourne. I think we just need to continue the momentum we’re on and really play as a team, with a win-at-all-costs mentality.”

He knows the value of their hard-earned second-place finish. “Statistically, skipping that quarter final is huge. Anything can happen in hockey. Playing one less game helps a bunch in our favour.”

Though this will be Crowder’s first AIHL finals appearance, pressure isn’t something he’s concerned about.

“I’m expecting a high-paced, high-energy environment where it’s going to be do-or-die. I think I thrive in any environment playing for the Brave.”

The Perfect Ending?

Asked what lifting the Goodall Cup would mean, Crowder doesn’t hesitate.

“It would mean more than anything, to be able to lift that trophy, and to do it with the Brave, who have been nothing short of amazing. It would be the perfect story. The cherry on top.”