Ottawa Charge rookie goaltender makes PWHL history

Ottawa’s netminder against Minnesota on Jan. 21 made history in a 1-0 shutout.

Gwyneth Philips earned not only her first career Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) win, but also did not let any pucks by her on goalie appreciation night. She led the Charge to victory over the Frost in Minnesota, breaking the three-game losing streak. Ottawa’s lone goal was scored by Charge captain Brianne Jenner.

But more than that, Philips will go down in history as the first rookie goaltender in the PWHL to earn a shutout in her first professional season.

“You know, it’s only my third game. I’m still trying to feel things out, but little taps from my teammates telling me I’m playing the puck well. It’s just that little reassurance that goes a long way to build my confidence,” Philips said in a press release.  

She was Ottawa’s third-round pick and made her debut on Dec. 19, also against Minnesota, earning a victorious start. Head coach Carla MacLeod said that Philips is stepping into the league with confidence, something not all young players are able to do.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, but I think goalkeeping is one of the tougher positions too,” she said. “I think it’s incredible to see the level of confidence Gwyneth entered with. It’s great to witness the mutual respect from the players through our goalies in our group.” 

This win not only lifts Ottawa but forces them to third in the league with four regulation road wins, and six points behind the top Montreal Victoire.

Ottawa is set to play New York at 7:00 p.m. on Jan. 27.