Three Nova Scotian Goalies Crack MHL Rosters

Three Nova Scotian Goalies Crack MHL Rosters: A New Era of Talent

The Maritime Junior Hockey League (MHL) is set to feature a new wave of goaltending talent from Nova Scotia this season, with three standout netminders securing spots on Jr. A rosters. Will Cole, Rhyah Stewart, and Nathan Mills have all made the leap from the Nova Scotia U18 league, each bringing a unique skill set that’s sure to turn heads.

Will Cole – Valley Wildcats

Will Cole has been a highly touted goaltending prospect for several years, and he’s continuing to live up to the hype. After a strong showing at the Moncton Wildcats training camp, Cole carried that momentum into the MHL, and managed to crack the Valley Wildcats as a 16 year old goalie, a very rare feat. His performance last season with the Cole Harbour Wolfpack in the Nova Scotia U18 league was equally impressive, posting a 9-12 record with a 2.92 goals-against average (GAA) and a stellar .920 save percentage (SV%). His consistent play earned him a spot on the All-Rookie team.

Drafted by the Moncton Wildcats in the sixth round as the first Nova Scotian goalie taken in the 2024 QMJHL Draft, Cole’s technical ability and calm presence in net have made him a standout. He combines his quick reflexes with sharp positioning, making him difficult to beat on both first and second chances. As he takes his next steps in the MHL, Cole is expected to be a key part of the Valley Wildcats' success this season.

Rhyah Stewart – West Kent Steamers

Rhyah Stewart continues to break barriers as she joins the West Kent Steamers in the MHL, further solidifying her status as one of the top female goaltending talents in the game. Stewart made history at the U18 Women’s World Junior Championship, helping Team Canada secure a bronze medal with a remarkable 0.67 GAA and a .950 SV%. Last season with the Cape Breton West Islanders in the Nova Scotia U18 league, she posted a 7-9 record with a 2.88 GAA and a .913 SV%, earning a spot on the 2nd Team All-Star list.

What sets Stewart apart is her exceptional ability to read the game and anticipate plays. Her high hockey IQ, combined with her quick lateral movements and controlled rebounds, make her a formidable presence in the crease. There will be a lot eyes watching her transition to the Jr. A level, but Stewart has consistently shown she’s more than ready for any challenge that comes her way. Her ability to remain composed under pressure and deliver clutch performances will be a key asset for the West Kent Steamers this season.

Nathan Mills – Campbellton Tigers

Nathan Mills joins the Campbellton Tigers after a stellar final season in the Nova Scotia U18 league, where he truly emerged as an elite goaltender. Mills posted an impressive 18-1 regular-season record with a 2.28 GAA and a .918 SV%, and named to the 1st Team All-Star at the Ice Jam Tournament. He saved his best hockey for the playoffs, where he led the Halifax McDonalds to a Provincial Championship, going 5-2 with a phenomenal 1.41 GAA and a .943 SV%. His dominant postseason performance earned him MVP honors.

Mills is known for his ability to elevate his game in critical moments, consistently delivering big saves when his team needs them most. His combination of speed, athleticism, and excellent puck tracking makes him one of the top goaltending prospects coming into the MHL. With his consistent improvement over the past few seasons, Mills is expected to challenge for meaningful minutes with the Campbellton Tigers.