Frontier Division Star of the Week: Branson Appelman, Goaltender, Helena Bighorns
The Helena Bighorns held things down on the road, completing a weekend sweep over the Badlands Sabres, and netminder Branson Appelman was at the center of it all. The second-year Bighorns goalie started both games, showing why he’s a cornerstone for the team.
Game one ended in a 4-1 victory and although the Sabres struck first, Appelman settled in quickly and never looked back. He faced just eight shots in the opening period but saw 14 in the second and 13 in the third, finishing with 35 saves on the night.
Saturday was a true nail-biter as the Bighorns eked out a 2-1 win. Appelman controlled the crease all night, denying 28 of 29 shots and preserving the win for Helena.
Over the two games, the Maple Grove, Minnesota native faced 64 shots, making 62 saves for a stellar .968 save percentage. With his season record now at 11-3, Appelman continues to prove himself a reliable presence in goal as Helena looks to return to St. Louis and make a run at the Fraser Cup.
As Helena looks ahead to the playoffs, Head Coach Damon Hanson highlighted the impact of Branson Appelman between the pipes: “Since Branson came in, he’s brought stability to the net every night. He battles hard and makes key saves when we need them, and we’re thrilled to have him as we push into the playoffs.”
NA3HL Announces Bethel University Stars of the Week | North American Tier III Hockey League | NA3HL