Six Goalies Advance from U16 to U18

As the U18 season kicks off, a wave of goaltending talent from the U16 league is set to make their mark, with six standout goalies stepping into their new roles. The U16 league was designed to give bubble players a platform to refine their skills, and with these goalies now advancing, it's clear the development model is working. Each of these young netminders brings something unique to their new U18 teams, and their progress will be closely watched.

Chandler Bell enters the U18 season with a decorated resume, having been named the Top Goaltender of the U16 league and earning a spot as a First Team All-Star. Last year with the Martello Buccaneers, Bell put the league on notice with a 9-7 record, an outstanding 1.95 GAA, and a league-record .949 SV%. Despite standing 5'9, Bell’s elite footwork, sharp positioning, and unwavering composure make up for his smaller frame, allowing him to consistently shut down opponents. Now stepping into the crease for the Halifax Macs, expectations are high for Bell to bring his elite play to the U18 level and challenge for top goaltender status in the league.

Dylan Benautio joins Steele Subaru this season and will certainly be a focal point, with scouts keeping a close eye on him ahead of the 2025 QMJHL draft. Benautio’s imposing 6'3 frame and sharp development last year with the Basin Armada saw him put up an 11-2 record, 2.26 GAA, and .925 SV%, helping lead his team to the Maritime Championship. This upcoming season could very well be his springboard to even greater success.

Payson Stewart will be joining Benautio, who also played for the Armada and was crucial in their championship run. Stewart’s consistency shines through in his numbers: a 24-7 record over two seasons and a .927 SV%. His steady presence in net and winning experience will be a major asset for Steele Subaru as they look to build on last year's success.

Nate Beaton will be backstopping the newly formed March & Mill Co. Hunters after a solid season with Kings HC. His 8-4 record and 3.66 GAA may not jump off the page, but a closer look shows Beaton’s significant improvement throughout the year, as he closed the season with a .923 SV% in his last nine games. His upward trajectory suggests he could be a key piece for the Hunters this season.

Andrew Shimon will be manning the crease for the Mitsubishi Rush after handling one of the heaviest workloads in the U16 league. Last season with the Cape Breton Jets, Shimon faced 735 shots—over 130 more than his nearest competitor. Despite the barrage, Shimon held his own, posting a 7-7 record and a respectable .893 SV%. With his experience under fire, Shimon will bring resilience and battle-tested poise to his new team.

Jake Thorne is set to take the next step in his career with Pictou County Week’s after a developmental season with the Fundy Thunder. Though his 5-10 record and .892 SV% may seem pedestrian, Thorne made steady progress throughout the year. Now with the structure and support of Pictou, he’s expected to make significant strides and compete for more playing time.

Together, these six goalies represent the strength and depth of talent being cultivated in the U16 league. As they graduate to U18, all eyes will be on their continued development and performance, with many poised to make big impacts for their respective teams.