The Novas

Team News

   

NSU15MHL October Player of The Month

NSU15MHL October Player of The Month

Lucas Chisholm, a defenseman from Heatherton, Nova Scotia, has emerged as a key leader for our team this season. As one of only three returning players, Lucas was recently named captain, a testament to his dedication and influence both on and off the ice. He plays a crucial role as the quarterback of our power play and is the go-to defenseman in all key situations. Despite a challenging start to the season, Lucas's commitment to his team's growth and his steady presence have been instrumental in guiding our younger players through their development journey.

Chisholm POM

Nov 6, 2024

2024-2025 Nova Training Camp Phase II Roster Announced

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team 2024-2025 Training Camp (Phase II)

In accordance with the regulations of The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, twenty-two (22) hockey players from Phase I of training camp have been selected to advance to Phase II. Those twenty-two (22) players are listed below:

Phase II Roster

The Novas would like to thank all the players who attended our Phase I Tryouts this season. We commend everyone for their participation and efforts and wish everyone not returning success in their future.

Sep 15, 2024

Exhibition Game Roster

The Truro Bearcats are in town tomorrow to face off against The Novas for an exhibition matchup!

20240914 Exhibition Game Roster

Sep 13, 2024

Exhibition Game Roster

The Novas travel to New Glasgow tomorrow to face off against The Bombers in the first exhibition game of the 2024-2025 season with the following roster:

240908 Exhibition Game Roster

Sep 7, 2024

New Assistant Coach

Nova U-15 Major Hockey Team President Shane MacIsaac announced today that Ben MacLellan
is joining the team’s coaching staff for the 2024-2025 hockey season. The 22-year-old native
of Antigonish, played his minor hockey in Antigonish before playing the 2016-2017 season
with the Novas, two seasons with The Cape Breton West Islanders, and then the past five seasons
with The Antigonish Junior ‘B’ Bulldogs, serving as a team captain. Ben recently graduated from
Saint Francis Xavier University with his Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Kinetics.
“We are very excited to add Ben to our program,” Nova head coach Jamie Mattie said in a statement.
“He has been very successful throughout his playing career and brings a ton of energy and
enthusiasm to our staff. Our young hockey players will be in great hands, and we feel that Ben
can help our players to continue to develop both on and off the ice.”
Aug 30, 2024

2024 MHL Draft

Congratulations to former Novas Cohen Pictou, Owen Bell, Luke MacEachern, Campbell Barrett & Jake Poirier for being drafted today in The 2024 MHL Entry Draft:
 
Pictou, Cohen
Cohen Pictou: Round 1, Pick 7, Pictou Crushers
Bell, Owen
Owen Bell: Round 1, Pick 9, Pictou Crushers
MacEachern, Luke
Luke MacEachern: Round 5, Pick 55, Pictou Crushers
Barrett, Campbell
Campbell Barrett: Round 7, Pick 75, Pictou Crushers
Poirier, Jake
Jake Poirier: Round 10, Pick 116, Miramichi Timberwolves
Jun 15, 2024

Novas Announce 25-Player Protected List

In accordance with the regulations of The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, twenty-five hockey players from the region have been identified and placed on The Nova's 25-Player Protected List following our Spring Identification Camp. Those twenty-five players are listed below. Those players not included on The Nova's 25-Player Protected List will be issued a NSU15MHL Player Release form and become eligible to be invited to the tryouts for any team in the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League.

Player Name Position Hometown Last Team 
Boyle, James Defense Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Chisholm, Lucas Defense Heatherton The Novas
LeBlanc, Stefan Defense Cheticamp Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
MacDonald, Alex Defense Lanark Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
MacMullin, Oliver Defense Antigonish  Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
Murray, Andy Defense Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Nadasdi, Sawyer Defense Brook Village Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Phillips, Cohen Defense Port Hawkesbury Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates
Austen, Manton Forward Antigonish Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
Crawford, Colin Forward Antigonish Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
Dwyer, Solomon Forward Antigonish  Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
Francis-MacDonald, Foss Forward Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Haverkort, Lucas Forward Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Jones, Andrew Forward Antigonish The Novas
LeRoux, Lucas Forward River Bourgeois Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates
MacIsaac, Colton Forward Inverness  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
MacQuarrie, James Forward Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Murray, Sam Forward Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Peeples, Rhylan Forward Louisdale  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Poirier, Spencer Forward Cheticamp Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Sampson, Asher Forward River Bourgeois Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Stewart, Meryk Forward Antigonish The Novas
Touesnard, Cade Forward River Bourgeois Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates
Landry, Ryland Goal St. Peter's Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Mombourquette, Dylan Goal L'Ardoise Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 

 

Jun 6, 2024

2023-2024 Awards Dinner

The Novas held their annual awards dinner last night. We celebrated the team's hard work, dedication, and outstanding achievements over the past season.
Huge thanks to our coaches, staff, players, parents and amazing supporters during 2023-2024!
 
2023-2024 Awards
Leading Scorer - #15 Hunter MacDonald Most Improved Player - #16 Jonah Ellis
Rookie of The Year - #17 Lucas Chisholm Defensive Player of The Year - #29 Jack Bell & #31 Leo Forance
Playoff MVP - #11 Duncan Anderson Coaches' Award - #19 Lex Watt
Unsung Hero - #7 Colby Fleet Most Valuable Player - #11 Duncan Anderson
 
May 23, 2024

Spring ID Camp Rosters

The following are ID Camp Team Rosters. Please consult the schedule to ensure you attend the correct team practice.

Team White   Team Blue
Name Position Last Team   Name Position Last Team
Anstey, Reid Goal Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders   Kersten, Carter Goal Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates
Mombourquette, Dylan Goal Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs    Courage, Callum Goal Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Crawford, Colin Forward Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs    Ryland, Landry Goal Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Dwyer, Solomon Forward Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs    Austen, Manton Forward Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
Farrow, Cooper Forward Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders   Duykers, Avery Forward Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
Francis-MacDonald, Foss Forward Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs   Haverkort, Lucas Forward Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Jones, Andrew Forward The Novas   MacDonald, Luke Forward Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Landry, Neil Forward Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs    MacIsaac, Colton Forward Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
LeRoux, Lucas Forward Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates   MacPherson, Masen Forward Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates
MacLellan, Mac Forward Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders   Murray, Sam Forward Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Peeples, Rhylan Forward Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders   OBrien, Hayden Forward Antigonish U13AA Bulldogs 
Poirier, Spencer Forward Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders   Sampson, Asher Forward Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Stewart, Meryk Forward The Novas   Touesnard, Cade Forward Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates
Boyle, James Defense Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs   Chisholm, Lucas Defense The Novas
Braun, Linus Defense Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders   Fraser, Cohen Defense Antigonish U13AA Bulldogs 
Brown, Eli Defense Antigonish U13AA Bulldogs    LeBlanc, Stefan Defense Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Delorey, Brian Defense Antigonish U15A Bulldogs   MacDonald, Rein Defense Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Googoo, Rylan Defense Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders   MacMullin, Oliver Defense Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
MacDonald, Alex Defense Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs    Murray, Andy Defense Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
McDaniel, Myles Defense Antigonish U13AA Bulldogs    Nadasdi, Sawyer Defense Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
McKenna, Liam Defense Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs   Phillips, Cohen Defense Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates
Parsons, Hazen Defense Cape Breton West U15A Islanders   Thompson, Duncan Defense Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs 
May 8, 2024

2024 Nova Spring Identification Camp

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp in May 2024. This Identification Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2024-2025 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. From this camp, a list of twenty-five players will be identified and invited to our Fall Training Camp.

Spring Identification Camp Schedule

Location All Sessions Antigonish Arena
     
Date Time  Event
05/09/2024 6:00PM-7:30PM Team Blue Practice
05/09/2024 7:30PM-9:00PM Team White Practice
     
05/13/2024 5:00PM-6:30PM Team White Practice
05/13/2024 6:30PM-8:00PM Team Blue Practice
     
05/14/2024 6:00PM-8:00PM Blue vs. White Inter-Squad Game
     
05/17/2024 6:00PM-8:00PM Blue vs. White Inter-Squad Game

Blue & White Team Rosters will be posted once registration has been closed.

2024 Spring Identification Camp Registration
Spring ID Camp Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 8, 2024).
Registration can be completed by selecting the "Program Registrations" tab on the menu above.

If any additional information is required please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

PLEASE BE AWARE
Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by the Nova U15 Major Hockey Team and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2024 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring Identification Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia. Additionally, Players must try out for the team within the Region in which the player resides. Failure to participate in the Spring Identification Camp of the team within the player's residential region results in the player being ineligible to participate in U15 Major Hockey in the Province of Nova Scotia.

Apr 20, 2024

2024 Nova Hockey Checking Clinic

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp this month. This Identification Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2024-2025 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. For full details on all identification camp camp sessions, view the full team Nova Team Calendar.

All 1st Year U15 Players in the 2024-2025 season are required to attend a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic prior to participating in any U15 Major Identification Camp. If you are a 1st Year U15 player or have not participated in a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending The Nova U15 Major Hockey Identification Camp, you are required to attend a checking clinic. Goaltenders are not required to attend a checking clinic.

Checking Clinic ($90)

Date:

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Location:

Antigonish Arena

Time:

6:00PM - 6:45PM - Video and Classroom Session

 

7:00PM - 8:00PM - Off Ice Clinic (Players wear full gear & sneakers are required footwear)

   

Date:

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Location:

Antigonish Arena

Time:

6:00PM - 8:00PM - On Ice Clinic

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2024 Checking Clinic Registration
Checking Clinic Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 6, 2024).
Registration can be completed by selecting the "Program Registrations" tab on the menu above.

PLEASE BE AWARE
1) Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by The Novas and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2024 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring ID Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.
2) Only players who reside within a team’s defined Region may attend that team`s camp.
3) 
Players who do not participate in their regional team`s spring camp or fall tryouts for personal reasons are not eligible to participate in another teams tryouts. Players who fail to participate in either their regional team`s spring and or fall camps and are not duly released by that team render themselves  neligible to participate on any other league team. In addition, players who are offered a roster position with their regional team and who refuse to accept are  also ruled ineligible to participate on any other league team.

If any additional information is required, please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

Apr 16, 2024

Antigonish Community Fridge

To cap off a successful weekend, The Novas made a donation to the Antigonish Community Fridge!

2024 Community Fridge

Apr 8, 2024

Novas Capture Bronze

The Novas capture the Bronze Medal this past weekend at the NSU15MHL Provincial Championships.

2023-2024 Bronze

Apr 8, 2024

Record Breaking Season!

Nova’s Captain, Duncan Anderson, recently concluded a remarkable regular season, setting new franchise records. Throughout the history of the Novas, over sixty defensemen have dawned the N on their chest, but Duncan has now etched his name in the annals of the team’s achievements. His accomplishments include Regular Season Points by a Defenseman with an impressive 41, as well as recording 29 Regular Season Assists. Duncan’s Regular Season Points Per Game average of 1.28 sets a new standard for excellence in his position. Congratulations to Duncan on his record-breaking achievements!

 
Mar 18, 2024

Love Me Fish & Lobster U15 Major Hockey Provincial Championships

 

February 22, 2024

Love Me Fish & Lobster signs on as title sponsor for the prestigious Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League Championships

Love Me Fish & Lobster U15 Major Hockey Provincial Championships to be hosted by the Novas in Antigonish, April 4 - 7

Antigonish – Today, the Organizing Committee responsible for the Nova Scotia U15 Hockey Major Hockey League Provincial Championships is pleased to announce Love Me Fish & Lobster as the title sponsor for the upcoming championships hosted by the Novas in Antigonish, April 4-7.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to present the Love Me Fish & Lobster U15 Major Hockey Provincial Championships to the community,” says Kyler Bell, Co-Chair of the Organizing Committee. “It was a quick conversation; Kevin heard about the opportunity to participate and quickly signed on.”

“I’m very happy to be able to support this tournament within our region,” says Kevin MacDonald, President, and CEO of Love Me Fish & Lobster. “These are the very best players in Nova Scotia. We feel privileged to not only bring this level of quality and competition to Antigonish, but by attracting over 150+ families to our community, bring broader economic benefits as well. It’s important to support our young athletes and support business within the province.”

“These are highly skilled, elite hockey players from our communities. As of today, only five points separate the top six teams, so you know it is going to be incredibly exciting hockey,” says Bell. “We hope to see people from all over the province coming out to see some excellent competition and support these players.”

The Love Me Fish & Lobster U15 Major Hockey Provincial Championships will bring the top swven teams from across Nova Scotia to Antigonish to compete for the prestigious U15 Major Hockey League title, April 4 – 7th. Billed as ‘The annual showcase for Nova Scotia’s future hockey stars’, the quality and speed of play attracts talent scouts representing semi-professional, and even professional teams. And deservedly so: many of these highly skilled players will advance to play in the highest divisions of competitive hockey within the Canadian Hockey League (including the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL)), NCAA, U Sports, even Canada’s National Teams and the NHL.

To follow the tournament, please visit the Novas Facebook page: facebook.com/NovaMajorHockey

Link: https://www.facebook.com/NovaMajorHockey

About Love Me Fish & Lobster

Nestled along the shores of the Northumberland Strait in Bayfield Nova Scotia, Love Me Fish & Lobster is a 100% locally owned and operated seafood company committed to providing the best service to fishermen and ensuring the highest quality seafood to customers.  

About the Novas

The Nova Major Team (Novas) is now into its 14th year of operation. The organization was created with the mission to provide 13–15-year-old players in Northeastern Nova Scotia the ability to develop and play the game of hockey at an elite level without having to leave their home regions—Antigonish, Guysborough, Inverness, Richmond, and parts of Victoria Counties.
The Novas last won the U15 provincial championships in 2015 and went on to win the Irving Oil Atlantic Challenge Cup that same year. Incredibly, 17 former Novas went on to lead the Cape Breton West Islanders to winning the 2017 Telus Cup, the Canadian Major Midget Championship title. 

For more information about the tournament, please contact:

Gail Stewart
Co-Chair, Love Me Fish & Lobster U15 Hockey Provincial Championships
sgailstewart@hotmail.com

Kyler Bell
Co-Chair, Love Me Fish & Lobster U15 Hockey Provincial Championships
kylerbell@gmail.com

 

Feb 21, 2024

Nova Ties Long Held Record

This past weekend in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, forward Lex Watt tied a Nova record by scoring 5 goals in one game against the Western Hurricanes. This accomplishment has only been obtained three times in the past by a Nova, once by former Captain Matthew Ellis in 2017 and twice by former Captain Tyler Peddle in 2019. Congratulations Lex!

19 Watt (4)

Feb 21, 2024

U18 Women's World Championship

The entire Nation will be watching today when former Nova Rhyah Stewart and her teammates begin their quest for the 2024 U18 Women's World Championship!

Jan 6, 2024

2023 NSU15MHL Show Case Game

The Novas are thrilled to announce that Colby Fleet, Duncan Anderson, Hunter MacDonald, and Leo Forance have been selected to play in the prestigious 2023 Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League Showcase Game in Cole Harbour on December 28th! This annual event highlights the top second-year Under 15 players in the NSU15MHL, giving them a chance to shine in front of Under 18, Preparatory School, and Junior Scouts.

Date: December 28th

Game Time: 3:00 PM

Location: Cole Harbour Place

Dec 19, 2023

Eastern Highlanders Challenge

In a nail-biting showdown last night, the Novas faced off against the Special Olympics Nova Scotia Eastern Highlanders in a heated floor hockey game. The match proved to be a hard-fought battle, with both teams showcasing their skills and determination. Despite the Novas' valiant efforts, the Eastern Highlanders emerged victorious with a final score of 20-18. The event not only highlighted the competitive spirit within the teams but also celebrated inclusivity and the joy of sports. Negotiations have already started for a rematch!

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Nov 30, 2023

NSU15MHL October Player of The Month

The NS U15 Major October’s Player of The Month is Goaltender Leo Forance from the Nova`s. Leo is statistically leading the League in all goaltending categories; in 3 games, he has 2 shutouts and has only allowed 1 goal with a 0.983 save percentage. Leo, who hails from Inverness, is a second year U15 player, who was an affiliate with The Novas last season. He came to camp this year with a strong work ethic and a determination to make the team. His commitment to improving and developing is certainly reflected in his play so far this year.

Nov 2, 2023

2023 Training Camp - Core Roster

In accordance with Section 8.2 Team Tryouts: Fall Camp of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League Operations Handbook - A core roster of 13 skaters and 1 goaltender is to be submitted to the League Registrar by September 24th. For players not signed or not on the team protected list by September 24th, should the player request a release, it must be provided immediately or the player must be signed. The following list is the 2023-2024 Nova Core Roster:

Name Position Last Team Home Town
Anderson, Duncan Defense The Novas Antigonish
Bell, Jack Goalie The Novas Antigonish
Boyd, Brett Defense Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Antigonish
Chisholm, Lucas Defense Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Heatherton
Chisholm, Will Forward Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Antigonish
Davidson, Ryan Forward Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Scotsville
Ellis, Jonah Defense Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Stewartdale
Fleet, Colby Forward The Novas Lochaber
MacDonald, Hunter Forward The Novas Port Hood
MacDonald, Kieran Forward The Novas Judique
MacInnis, Jack Forward Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Baddeck
MacInnis, Jake Forward Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs St. Andrews
Watt, Lex Forward The Novas Whitehead
Sep 25, 2023

Novas In The QMJHL

Congratulations to former Novas Jack Milner (Halifax), Leyton Stewart (Quebec), Riley Sampson (Moncton),
& Kevin Walker (Charlottetown) for earning roster positions with their respective teams in the QMJHL
for the 2023-2024 Hockey Season.

Sep 22, 2023

2023 Training Camp Stage II Roster Announced

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team 2023-2024 Training Camp (Stage II)

In accordance with the regulations of The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, twenty-two (22) hockey players from Stage I of training camp have been selected to advance to Stage II. Those twenty-two (22) players are listed below:

Last Name First Name Position Shot Last Year's Team Hometown
Anderson Duncan Defense Right The Novas Antigonish
Bell Jack Goalie Left The Novas Antigonish
Boyd Brett Defense Left Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Antigonish
Burchill Hugh Goalie Left Antigonish U15A Bulldogs Cloverville
Chisholm Lucas Defense Left Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Heatherton
Chisholm Will Forward Left Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Antigonish
Davidson Ryan Forward Left Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Inverness
Ellis Jonah Defense Right Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Stewartdale
Fleet Colby Forward Right The Novas South Lochaber
Forance Leo Goalie Left Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Inverness 
Hebb Jacob Forward Right Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Cheticamp
Jones Andrew Forward Left Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Antigonish
Landry Daniel Defense Right Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Antigonish
MacDonald Hunter Forward Left The Novas Port Hood
MacDonald Kieran Forward Left The Novas Judique
MacInnis Jack Forward Left Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Baddeck
MacInnis Jake Forward Right Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs St.Andrews
MacInnis John Hugh Defense Left Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders West Mabou
MacQuarrie James Forward Left Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Antigonish
Nadasdi Sawyer Defense Right Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders Brook Village
Stewart Meryk Forward Right Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Antigonish
Watt Lex Forward Right The Novas Whitehead
Sep 17, 2023

Nova Fall Training Camp

The Novas Fall Training Camp for the 2023-2024 Hockey Season will open on Tuesday, September 12th. Training Camp is open to only those players on the team's 25-player protected list posted from Spring ID Camp and those players that have received an invitation to attend camp. All invitations have been currently issued.

Stage I of Fall Training Camp will take place between September 12th - September 17th. At the conclusion of Stage I the roster will be reduced to 22 players.

Session #1 - September 12th 7:00PM-8:30PM Charles V. Keating Millennium Centre
Session #2 - September 13th 7:30PM-9:00PM Charles V. Keating Millennium Centre
Session #3 - September 14th 6:30PM-8:00PM Antigonish Arena

If a player from another regional zone has been released from a team at the conclusion of Stage I and wishes to tryout for The Novas during Stage II of Fall Training Camp, they must complete the Tryout Request Form located in the menu bar above. Request for tryouts that are received will be reviewed by The Nova Coaching Staff and an invitation may or may not be issued based on their decision. Only players that are issued an invitation will be contacted.

Stage II of Fall Training Camp will take place between Setember 18th - October 1st. At the conclusion of Stage II the final team roster will be confirmed.

Session #4 - September 19th 7:00PM-8:30PM Charles V. Keating Millennium Centre
Session #5 - September 21th 6:30PM-8:00PM Antigonish Arena
NSU15MHL Early Bird Tournament - September 30th-October 1st East Hants Sportsplex

 

Sep 9, 2023

2023 MHL Entry Draft

Congratulations to former Novas Jack Hayne and Owen Chisholm for being drafted last night into the MHL:
Jack Hayne: Round 1, Pick 5, Amherst Ramblers
Owen Chisholm: Round 9, Pick 101, Pictou County Weeks Crushers
Jun 16, 2023

Save The Whales

Current Novas, Hunter MacDonald and Kieran MacDonald, along with their friends Owen, Lucas, and Aiden were the first to discover a pod of beached whales on the shore in Port Hood and were the first to take action in helping out the stranded mammels. The entire Nova organization applaud the boys in recognizing thier environmental responsibility and in aiding the helpless pilot whales. You can read the entire store here:

CBC News Story

 

Jun 12, 2023

2023 QMJHL Entry Draft

Congratulations to the former Novas who heard their names called at this year's QMJHL Entry Draft!

Brady Peddle - Round 3, 50th Overall by The Gatineau Olympic
Jack Hayne - Round 8, 142nd Overall by The Moncton Wildcats

Jun 12, 2023

Novas Annouce 25-Player Protected List

In accordance with the regulations of The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, twenty-five hockey players from the region have been identified and placed on The Nova's 25-Player Protected List following our Spring Identification Camp. Those twenty-five players are listed below. Those players not included on The Nova's 25-Player Protected List will be issued a NSU15MHL Player Release form and become eligible to be invited to the tryouts for any team in the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League.

Last Name First Name Position Home Town Last Team
Anderson Duncan Defense Antigonish  The Novas
Bell Jack Goalie West River The Novas
Boyd Brett Defense Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Boyle James Defense St. Andrews Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs
Burchill Hugh Goalie Cloverville Antigonish U15A Bulldogs
Campbell Owen Defense Judique  Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Chisholm Lucas Defense Heatherton Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs
Chisholm Will Forward Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
Davidson Ryan Forward Inverness  Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Ellis Jonah Defense Stewartdale Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Fleet Colby Forward South Lochaber  The Novas
Forance Leo Goalie Inverness Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Francis-MacDonald Foss Forward Antigonish Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs
Jones Andrew Forward Antigonish Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs
Landry Daniel Defense Antigonish Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
LeBlanc Stefan Defense Cheticamp Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Macdonald Hunter Forward Port Hood The Novas
MacDonald Kieran Forward Judique The Novas
MacInnis Jack Allan Forward Baddeck  Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
MacInnis Jake Forward St.Andrews  Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs
MacInnis John Hugh Defense West Mabou Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders
Nadasdi Sawyer Defense Brook Village Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders
Reddick Theo Forward Antigonish  The Novas
Stewart Meryk Forward Antigonish Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs
Watt Lex Forward Whitehead The Novas
May 24, 2023

2023 Spring Identification Camp

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp this month. This Identification Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2023-2024 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. For full details on all identification camp camp sessions, view the full team Nova Team Calendar.

PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING NSU15MHL REGULATIONS
1) Only players who reside within a team’s defined Region may attend that team`s camp.
3) 
Players who do not participate in their regional team`s spring camp or fall tryouts for personal reasons are not eligible to participate in another teams tryouts. Players who fail to participate in either their regional team`s spring and or fall camps and are not duly released by that team render themselves ineligible to participate on any other league team. In addition, players who are offered a roster position with their regional team and who refuse to accept are  also ruled ineligible to participate on any other league team.
3) Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by The Novas and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2023 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring ID Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.

Schedule (Subject to changes)

Location: All Sessions Antigonish Arena
Date Time  Event
4/21/2023 6:00PM-7:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #1 Goalies)
4/21/2023 7:00PM-8:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #1 Defense)
4/21/2023 8:00PM-9:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #1 Forwards)
    * Goaltenders should be prepared to attend multiple sessions
4/22/2023 2:00PM-3:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #2 Goalies)
4/22/2023 3:00PM-4:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #2 Defense)
4/22/2023 4:00PM-5:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #2 Forwards)
    * Goaltenders should be prepared to attend multiple sessions
4/23/2023 12:00PM-1:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #3 Goalies)
4/23/2023 1:00PM-2:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #3 Defense)
4/23/2023 2:00PM-3:00PM Spring ID Camp (Session #3 Forwards)
     
4/25/2023 6:00PM-8:00PM Spring ID Camp (Inter-Squad Game)
     
4/26/2023 6:00PM-8:00PM Spring ID Camp (Inter-Squad Game)

 

2023 Spring ID Camp Registration
The Spring ID Camp Registration form must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (April 20, 2023). Registration can be completed by selecting the "Program Registrations" tab on the menu above.

If any additional information is required please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

 

Apr 1, 2023

2023 Nova Checking Clinic

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp this month. This Identification Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2023-2024 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. For full details on all identification camp camp sessions, view the full team Nova Team Calendar.

All 1st Year U15 Players in the 2023-2024 season are required to attend a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic prior to participating in any U15 Major Identification Camp. If you are a 1st Year U15 player or have not participated in a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending The Nova U15 Major Hockey Identification Camp, you are required to attend a checking clinic. Goaltenders are not required to attend a checking clinic.

Checking Clinic ($85)

Date:

Wednesday, April 19, 2023

Location:

Antigonish Arena

Time:

6:00PM - 6:45PM - Video and Classroom Session

 

7:00PM - 8:00PM - Off Ice Clinic (Players wear full gear & sneakers are required footwear)

   

Date:

Thursday, April 20, 2023

Location:

Antigonish Arena

Time:

6:00PM - 8:00PM - On Ice Clinic

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2023 Checking Clinic Registration
Checking Clinic Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (April 19, 2023). Registration can be completed by selecting the "Program Registrations" tab on the menu above.

PLEASE BE AWARE
1) Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by The Novas and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2023 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring ID Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.
2) Only players who reside within a team’s defined Region may attend that team`s camp.
3) 
Players who do not participate in their regional team`s spring camp or fall tryouts for personal reasons are not eligible to participate in another teams tryouts. Players who fail to participate in either their regional team`s spring and or fall camps and are not duly released by that team render themselves  neligible to participate on any other league team. In addition, players who are offered a roster position with their regional team and who refuse to accept are  also ruled ineligible to participate on any other league team.

If any additional information is required, please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

Apr 1, 2023

2022-2023 1st Team All Star

Congratulations to Cooper MacNeil for being named to The 1st All-Star Team at
The 2023 Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey Championship Tournament!
 
Mar 22, 2023

2022-2023 NSU15MHL Top Rookie Defenseman

 
Congratulations to first year Nova Duncan Anderson for being awarded
The 2022-2
023 NSU15MHL Top Rookie Defenseman Award!
Mar 22, 2023

The Novas & Special Olympics Nova Scotia

Nova Captains Angus Hughie MacLean & Thomas MacEachern took time for a visit with Special Olympian Hannah Deon and her parents, Gloria & Joe while they were selling Nova 50/50 tickets this past Sunday during the game against The Bandits. This season The Novas, with the help of Special Olympic athletes and their families, are donating all proceeds from their 50/50 draws throughout the season to Special Olympics Nova Scotia. This is a great program to support, so make sure to attend a Nova game this season and get your 50/50 tickets!

Nov 8, 2022

Training Camp Stage III Roster Announced

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team 2022-2023 Training Camp

In accordance with the regulations of The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, twenty-one hockey players from the region have been selected to advance to Stage III of this year's training camp. Those twenty-one players are listed below:

Nova Hockey        
Last Name First Name Last Team (2021-2022)  Position Shot Home Town
Anderson Duncan James Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Defense Right Antigonish
Bell Jack Robert Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Goalie Left West River
Bowie Aiden Aubrey The Novas Forward Right Antigonish
Boyd Andrew James (A.J.) White Horse U15 AA Mustangs Forward Left Antigonish
Broussard Alexander Francis Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Forward Left Pomquet
Broussard Tucker Alex Did Not Play Goalie Left Antigonish
Davidson Ryan Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Scotsville
Fleet Colby Tanner Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Right South Lochaber
Heukshorst Lance Lewis Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Forward Left Port Hood
MacDonald Hunter Quinn  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Port Hood
MacDonald Kieran James Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Judique
MacEachern Carson The Novas Forward Left Port Hood
MacEachern Thomas The Novas Defense Left Antigonish
MacLean Angus Hughie  Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Left Christmas Island
MacLellan Merrick Norman Brookfield U15A Elks Forward Left Dunvegan
MacNeil Cooper Aglukkaq Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates Defense Left Marble Mountain
Poirier Jake Alexander Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Goalie Right Cheticamp
Reddick Theo William  Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Left Antigonish
Trenholm Sam Brian  The Novas Defense Right Port Hood
van Zutphen Olan Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Right Skye Glen
Watt Lex Patrick Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Right Whitehead
Sep 4, 2022

Exhibition Game Rosters Announced

Here are this weekend's rosters as The Novas travel to New Glasgow to face off against the Bombers in two exhibition games.

Nova Hockey The Novas vs. The Bombers
September 3, 2022 Game #1 (9:00AM)
   
Last Name First Name Last Team (2021-2022)  Position Shot Home Town
Anderson Duncan James Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Defense Right Antigonish
Campbell Owen Donald Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Defense Right Judique
Landry Daniel Paul Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Defense Right Antigonish
MacEachern Thomas The Novas Defense Left Antigonish
MacInnis John Hugh  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Defense Left Port Hood
MacNeil Cooper Aglukkaq Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates Defense Left Marble Mountain
Boyd Andrew James (A.J.) White Horse U15 AA Mustangs Forward Left Antigonish
Broussard Alexander Francis Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Forward Left Pomquet
Chisholm William Alex Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Left Antigonish
Davidson Ryan Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Scotsville
King Marlo Padraig Calgary Southwest Team 2 Forward Left Pomquet
MacDonald Hunter Quinn  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Port Hood
MacInnis Jack Allan  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Baddeck
MacInnis Jake Alexander Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Right St. Andrews
MacInnis Ryan John Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Left St. Andrews
Nicholson Ethan Edgar Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Right Havre Boucher
Reddick Theo William  Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Left Antigonish
Watt Lex Patrick Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Right Whitehead
Bell Jack Robert Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Goalie Left West River
Forance Leo Joseph  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Goalie Left Inverness

 

Nova Hockey The Novas vs. The Bombers
September 3, 2022 Game #2 (2:00PM)
   
Last Name First Name Last Team (2021-2022)  Position Shot Home Town
Campbell Owen Donald Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Defense Right Judique
Landry Daniel Paul Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Defense Right Antigonish
MacInnis John Hugh  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Defense Left Port Hood
MacLean Angus Hughie  Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Left Iona
Trenholm Sam Brian  The Novas Defense Right Port Hood
van Zutphen Olan Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Right Skye Glen
Chisholm William Alex Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Left Antigonish
Davidson Ryan Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Scotsville
Heukshorst Lance Lewis Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Forward Left Port Hood
MacDonald Hunter Quinn  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Port Hood
MacDonald Kieran James Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Judique
MacEachern Carson The Novas Forward Left Port Hood
MacInnis Jack Allan  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Left Baddeck
MacInnis Jake Alexander Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Right St. Andrews
MacInnis Ryan John Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Left St. Andrews
MacLellan Merrick Norman Brookfield U15A Elks Forward Left Dunvegan
Nicholson Ethan Edgar Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Right Havre Boucher
Reddick Theo William  Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Left Antigonish
Broussard Tucker Alex Did Not Play Goalie Left Antigonish
Poirier Jake Alexander Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Goalie Right Cheticamp
Sep 2, 2022

Training Camp Stage II Roster Announced

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team 2022-2023 Training Camp

In accordance with the regulations of The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, twenty-three hockey players from the region have been selected to advance to Stage II of this year's training camp. Those twenty-three players are listed below:

Last Name First Name Last Team (2021-2022)  Position Town
Anderson Duncan James Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Defense Antigonish
Bell Jack Robert Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Goalie West River
Bowie Aiden Aubrey The Novas Forward Antigonish
Boyd Andrew James (A.J.) White Horse U15 AA Mustangs Forward Antigonish
Broussard Alexander Francis Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Forward Pomquet
Broussard Tucker Alex Did Not Play Goalie Antigonish
Davidson Ryan Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Scotsville
Fleet Colby Tanner Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward South Lochaber
Heukshorst Lance Lewis Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Forward Port Hood
King Marlo Padraig Calgary Southwest Team 2 Forward Pomquet
MacDonald Hunter Quinn  Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Port Hood
MacDonald Kieran James Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Judique
MacEachern Carson The Novas Forward Port Hood
MacEachern Thomas The Novas Defense Antigonish
MacInnis Jake Alexander Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward St. Andrews
MacLean Angus Hughie  Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Iona
MacLellan Merrick Norman Brookfield U15A Elks Forward Dunvegan
MacNeil Cooper Aglukkaq Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates Defense Marble Mountain
Poirier Jake Alexander Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Goalie Cheticamp
Reddick Theo William  Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Antigonish
Trenholm Sam Brian  The Novas Defense Port Hood
van Zutphen Olan Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Skye Glen
Watt Lex Patrick Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Whitehead

 

Aug 29, 2022

2022 Nova Hockey Training Camp

2022 Nova Hockey Training Camp 

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Training Camp for the upcoming season starting on August 22, 2022. This Training Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2022-2023 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association, or any player in possession of a NSU15MHL Player Release. For full details on all training camp sessions, view the full Nova Team Calendar.

All 1st Year U15 Players in the 2022-2023 season are required to attend a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic prior to participating in any U15 Major Training Camp. If you are a 1st Year U15 player or have not participated in a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending The Nova U15 Major Hockey Training Camp, you are required to attend a checking clinic. Goaltenders are not required to attend a checking clinic.

Training Camp

Stage I ($175.00)

Dates: Monday, August 22, 2022 - Sunday, August 28, 2022
Location: Charles V. Keating Millennium Center
At the end of Stage I the roster will be reduced to a maximum of 23 players.

Stage II ($175.00)

Dates: Monday, August 29, 2022 - Sunday, September 4, 2022
Location: Charles V. Keating Millennium Center
At the end of Stage II the roster will be reduced to a maximum of 21 players.

2022 Nova Training Camp Registration Form

PLEASE BE AWARE
Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms and fees must be received by the Nova U15 Major Hockey Team and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2022 Training Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the training camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia. Registration fees should be submitted electronically with an e-transfer to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of the Training Camp.

For information, please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

 

 

Aug 2, 2022

Former Nova Invited to National Tryout!

Congratulations to former Nova Rhyah Stewart for receiving an invitation to attend the National Women's Under-18 Camp in Calgary next month!

Rhyah_hns

Jul 30, 2022

2022 QMJHL Entry Draft

Congratulations to three former Novas who heard their names called at this year's QMJHL Entry Draft!

Sampson, Riley

Riley Sampson - Round 7, 115th Overall by The Moncton Wildcats

MacLaughlin, Clint

Clint MacLaughlin - Round 10, 178th Overall by The Cataractes de Shawinigan

MacIntyre, Campbell

Campbell MacIntyre - Round 14, 250th Overall by The Saint John Sea Dogs

Jul 7, 2022

Former Nova Captain Named Coach of The Year

Brent O'Handley served as The Nova's Team Captain during the 2018-2019 in his second year with the team. It is with no surprise to The Nova's the Brent continues to be a leader and a standout in his community. There are no doubt more accolades in his future. Congratulations Brent from the entire Nova Organization!

Jun 23, 2022

2021-2022 Awards Dinner

The Novas hosted their annual award dinner this evening and the following players were recognized for the 2021-2022 hockey season:
Leading Scorer - Jack Hayne
Most Improved Player - Ben MacDonald
Rookie of The Year - Thomas MacEachern
Defensive Player of The Year - Brady Peddle
Most Valuable Player in The Playoffs - Brady Peddle
Unsung Hero Award - Owen Chisholm
Most Valuable Player - Jack Hayne
 
2021-2022 Leading Scorer 2021-2022 Most Improved Player 2021-2022 Rookie of The Year 2021-2022 Defensive Player of The Year
2021-2022 Playoff MVP 2021-2022 Unsung Hero 2021-2022 Most Valuable Player
 
Jun 6, 2022

Novas Annouce 25-Player Protected List

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team recently held their 2002 Spring Identification Camp. In accordance with the regulations of The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, twenty-five hockey players from the region have been identified and placed on The Nova's 25-Player Protected List. Those twenty-five players are listed below:

Last Name First Name Last Team (2021-2022)  Position Home Town
Anderson Duncan Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Defense Antigonish
Bell Jack Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Goalie West River
Bowie Aiden The Novas Forward Antigonish
Boyd Brett Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Defense Antigonish
Broussard Alexander Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Forward Pomquet
Broussard Tucker Did Not Play Goalie Antigonish
Campbell Owen Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Defense Judique
Chisholm William Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Antigonish
Connors Jonathan Antigonish U15AA Bulldogs Defense Antigonish
Davidson Ryan Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Scotsville
Fleet Colby Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward South Lochaber
Heukshorst Lance Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Forward Port Hood
MacDonald Hunter Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Port Hood
MacDonald Kieran Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Judique
MacEachern Carson The Novas Forward Port Hood
MacEachern Thomas The Novas Defense Antigonish
MacInnis Jake Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward St. Andrews
MacInnis John Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Defense Port Hood
MacLean Angus Hughie Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Iona
MacNeil Cooper Strait Richmond U15AA Pirates Defense Marble Mountain
Poirier Jake Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Goalie Cheticamp
Reddick Theo Antigonish U13AAA Bulldogs Forward Antigonish
Trenholm Sam The Novas Defense Port Hood
van Zutphen Olan Cape Breton West U15AA Islanders Defense Skye Glen
Watt Lex Cape Breton West U13AAA Islanders  Forward Whitehead

 

 

 

Jun 6, 2022

Nova Defenseman Brady Peddle Commits to Bishop Kearney

Nova Defenseman Brady Peddle has committed to attending Bishop Kearney High School in Rochester, New York next year where he will be a member of the Bishop Kearney Selects Hockey Program. The Novas congratulate Brady on his accomplishments and wish him all the best in the future which we know is very bright!

May 18, 2022

2022 Spring Identification Camp

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp in May, 2022. This Identification Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2022-2023 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. For full details on all identification camp camp sessions, view the full team Nova Team Calendar.

PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING NSU15MHL REGULATIONS
1) Only players who reside within a team’s defined Region may attend that team`s camp.
3) 
Players who do not participate in their regional team`s spring camp or fall tryouts for personal reasons are not eligible to participate in another teams tryouts. Players who fail to participate in either their regional team`s spring and or fall camps and are not duly released by that team render themselves  neligible to participate on any other league team. In addition, players who are offered a roster position with their regional team and who refuse to accept are  also ruled ineligible to participate on any other league team.
3) Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by The Novas and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2022 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring ID Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.

Spring Identification Camp ($100)

Date: May 10, 2022
Location: Antigonish Arena
Time: 5:00PM - 6:00PM Goaltender Evaluation
  6:00PM - 7:00PM Defenseman Evaluation*
  7:00PM - 8:00PM Forward Evaluation*
  * Goaltenders should be prepared to attend multiple sessions
   
Date: May 12, 2022
Location: Antigonish Arena
Time: 6:00PM - 8:00PM Inter-Squad Scrimmage
   
Date: May 13, 2022
Location: Antigonish Arena
Time: 6:00PM - 8:00PM Inter-Squad Scrimmage

2022 Spring ID Camp Registration Form (Click Here)
The Spring ID Camp Registration form must be completed, and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 10, 2022). Registration fees should be submitted electronically with an e-transfer to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of Spring ID Camp.

If any additional information is required please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

Apr 22, 2022

2022 Nova Checking Clinic

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp in May, 2022. This Identification Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2022-2023 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. For full details on all identification camp camp sessions, view the full team Nova Team Calendar.

All 1st Year U15 Players in the 2022-2023 season are required to attend a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic prior to participating in any U15 Major Identification Camp. If you are a 1st Year U15 player or have not participated in a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending The Nova U15 Major Hockey Identification Camp, you are required to attend a checking clinic. Goaltenders are not required to attend a checking clinic.

Checking Clinic ($75)

Date:

Tuesday, May 3, 2022

Location:

Antigonish Arena

Time:

6:00PM - 6:45PM - Video and Classroom Session

 

7:00PM - 8:00PM - Off Ice Clinic (Players wear full gear & sneakers are required footwear)

   

Date:

Thursday, May 5, 2022

Location:

Antigonish Arena

Time:

5:00PM - 7:00PM - On Ice Clinic

         

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2022 Nova Checking Clinic Registration Form (Click Here)
Checking Clinic Registration must be completed, and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 3, 2022). Registration fees should be submitted electronically with an e-transfer to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of the Checking Clinic.

PLEASE BE AWARE
1) Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by The Novas and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2022 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring ID Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.
2) Only players who reside within a team’s defined Region may attend that team`s camp.
3) 
Players who do not participate in their regional team`s spring camp or fall tryouts for personal reasons are not eligible to participate in another teams tryouts. Players who fail to participate in either their regional team`s spring and or fall camps and are not duly released by that team render themselves  neligible to participate on any other league team. In addition, players who are offered a roster position with their regional team and who refuse to accept are  also ruled ineligible to participate on any other league team.

If any additional information is required, please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

Apr 22, 2022

Peddle Named to NSU15MHL 1st Team All-Stars

The Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League recently handed out their major awards during the opening ceremonies of their Provincial Championship Tournament being held this weekend in Truro. Second year Nova blue-liner Brady Peddle was named to the 2021-2022 NSU15MHL 1st Team All-Stars!

2021-2022 1st Team All-Star
Brady is pictured here receiving his award from NSU15MHL President Todd Watson.

Apr 21, 2022

Join Gail's Fight!

Join Gail's Fight

The Stewart Family

On January 31, 2022 Gail Stewart, 46, was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML), an uncommon type of cancer that requires a stem cell infusion, which injects healthy stem cells from a donor. The Stewart Family has been an integral part of The Nova Hockey program since its inception in 2010 and Gail is the ultimate Hockey Mom. Three of her children have been members of The Nova’s. Gail, along with her loving family, her husband Dave and children, Zac (2017-2018), Leyton (2018-2020), Rhyah (2020-2021), and Meryk, are urgently seeking a hero -- a matching stem cell donor to help save Gail's life.

WE NEED DONORS - ANYONE BETWEEN THE AGES OF 17 and 35 CAN BE A MATCH!
• Registering to see if you are a match is EASY. Fill out a form, swab your cheeks and send the kit back free of charge.
• Only 1 in 700 people that join the registry ever go on to donate.
• If a match, donating is EASY and similar to a blood donation.

REGISTER TODAY at
blood.ca/JoinGailsFight
A cheek swab kit will be mailed to you. You must be between 17-35 years of age to register. Not everyone who registers will be matched to a patient and asked to donate, but each registrant provides hope for those waiting.

The Nova's, led by Gail's nephew Trent, have joined the fight are in Gail's corner!
Join The Fight!

Mar 22, 2022

Oliver Smith Legacy Game

During this Day of Remembrance, The Novas once again participated in the annual Oliver Smith Legacy Game held each November 11th in the afternoon after the completion of The Official Remembrance Day Ceremonies. The game is held each year to honour Oliver Smith, remember his legacy, continue to help raise awareness about Ewing's Sarcoma, and as a fundraiser for The Ewings Cancer Foundation of Canada . Oliver's legendary Ollie Bots have helped and continue to help raise awareness about the disease, a rare form of bone cancer that took his young life. A number of The Novas were teammates of Oliver's throughout their minor hockey careers and consider it an an honour to participate each year in his memory.

IMG_8431IMG_8410IMG_8424IMG_8411IMG_8419IMG_8412IMG_8418
IMG_8425IMG_8416IMG_8417IMG_8426
IMG_8427IMG_8428
IMG_8430

 

 

 

Nov 11, 2021

Training Camp Stage II Roster

Nova Hockey Training Camp
The following list of players are asked to report for Stage II of our Training Camp on Tuesday August 24th at 6:30PM at The Charles V. Keating Millennium Center:

Last Name First Name Last Team (2020-2021) Position Shot
Barrett Campbell Nolan The Novas Forward Right
Bell Owen Kyler Antigonish U15 AA Bulldogs Forward Left
Bowie Aiden Aubrey Antigonish U13 AAA Bulldogs Forward Right
Broussard Alexander Francis Antigonish U13 AAA Bulldogs Forward Left
Cameron Jaden Cape Breton West U15 AA Defense Right
Chisholm Callum Marcel The Novas Forward Right
Chisholm Owen Gerald The Novas Defense Left
Connors Jonathan Brett Antigonish U13 AAA Bulldogs Defense Right
Gillis Joshua Gordon The Novas Forward Left
Hayne Jack Xavier The Novas Forward Left
Heukshorst Lance Lewis Cape Breton West U13 AAA Forward Left
MacDonald Aiden Michael Cape Breton West U13 AAA Forward Right
MacDonald Ben Jeffery Cape Breton West U15 AA Forward Left
MacDonald Oliver Strait Richmond U15 AA Pirates Goalie Left
MacEachern Carson Levi Cape Breton West U13 AAA Forward Left
MacEachern Thomas Gerard Antigonish U13 AAA Bulldogs Defense Left
MacGillivary Seth Antigonish U13 AAA Bulldogs Forward Right
MacLean Angus Hughie Cape Breton West U13 AAA Defense Left
MacLean Neil Duncan Cape Breton West U15 AA Goalie Left
MacNeil Cooper Cape Breton West U13 AAA Defense Left
MacNeil Nolan Cape Breton West U15 AA Defense Left
MacNeil Tyson Strait Richmond U15 AA Pirates Forward Left
Martell Lance William Strait Richmond U15 AA Pirates Defense Left
Peddle Brady The Novas Defense Left
Poirier Jake Alexander Cape Breton West U13 AAA Goalie Right
Rovers Andre Antigonish U15 AA Bulldogs Defense Right
Samson Carlin Keith The Novas Forward Left
Stewart Trent Matthew The Novas Forward Left
Trenholm Sam  Brian Cape Breton West U13 AAA Defense Right
Webb Landon William The Novas Forward Left

For those players not on the list; The Novas sincerely thank you for your participation and efforts in Stage I of this year's Training Camp and wish you all the best in your hockey future. Your official NSU15MHL Player Release will be issued shortly, allowing you to try out for any other team in the NSU15MHL if you choose to do so.

Aug 23, 2021

2021 Nova Hockey Training Camp & Checking Clinic

Please note, due to the number of registrants already we will be closing registrations on Friday August 13th for planning purposes!

2021 Nova Hockey Training Camp & Checking Clinic

The Nova U15 Major Hockey Team will be holding their Training Camp starting August 17, 2021. This Training Camp is open to all U15-aged players for the 2021-2022 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association, or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. For full details on all training camp sessions, view the full team Nova Team Calendar.

All 1st Year U15 Players in the 2021-2022 season are required to attend a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic prior to participating in any U15 Major Training Camp. If you are a 1st Year U15 player or have not participated in a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending The Nova U15 Major Hockey Training Camp, you are required to attend a checking clinic. Goaltenders are not required to attend a checking clinic.

Checking Clinic ($75)

Date:

Saturday, August 14, 2021

Location:

Charles V. Keating Millennium Center

Time:

10:00AM - 10:45AM - Video and Classroom Session - Saputo Room 104

 

11:00AM - 12:00PM - Off Ice Clinic - Main Arena (Players wear full gear & sneakers are required footwear)

 

2:00PM - 4:00PM - On Ice Clinic - Auxiliary Arena

         

 

 

 

 


2021 Nova Major Hockey Checking Clinic Registration Form
Checking Clinic Registration must be completed, and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (August 13, 2021). Due to COVID-19 Regulations Registration fees should be submitted electronically with an e-transfer to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of the Checking Clinic.

Training Camp

Stage I

($175.00)

Dates:

Tuesday, August 17th, 2021 - Sunday, August 22, 2021

Location:

Charles V. Keating Millennium Center

 

At the end of Stage I the roster will be reduced to a maximum of 30 players.

Stage II

($175.00)

Date:

Monday, August 23, 2021 - Monday, August 30, 2021

Location:

Charles V. Keating Millennium Center

 

At the end of Stage II the roster will be reduced to a maximum of 25 players.

 

 

 

 

 



 

 

2021 Nova Major Hockey Training Camp Registration Form
Training Camp Registration must be completed, and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (August 16, 2021). Due to COVID-19 Regulations Registration fees should be submitted electronically with an e-transfer to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of the Training Camp.

For information, please contact:
Jamie Mattie         (289) 259-9936 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

PLEASE BE AWARE
Regulations of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by the Nova U15 Major Hockey Team and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2021 Nova Hockey Training Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Training Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.
Additionally, Players must try out for the team within the Region in which the player resides. Failure to participate in the Training Camp of the team within the player's residential region results in the player being ineligible to participate in U15 Major Hockey in the Province of Nova Scotia.

Jul 26, 2021

Hayes Selected 1st Overall in 2021 MHL Entry Draft

18 Ryan Hayes

Congratulations to former Nova Ryan Hayes who has been selected 1st Overall by The Miramichi Timberwolves in the 2021 MHL Entry Draft!

Jul 10, 2021

Ten Former Novas Selected In 2021 MHL Entry Draft

MHL2021

Congratulations to the ten former Novas that were selected in the 2021 MHL Entry Draft that was held this weekend!

Jul 10, 2021

Record Number of Novas Selected In 2021 QMJHL Draft

A record number of Novas have been selected by teams in this year's QMJHL Entry Draft. All were members of the 2019-2020 NSMBHL League Championship team.

Round Selection Name Team
1 2 Peddle, Tyler Drummondville Voltigeurs
5 76 Grant, Tully Rouyn-Noranda Huskies
8 144 Stewart, Leyton Quebec Remparts
8 146 Hayes, Ryan Acadie-Bathurst Titan
9 153 Milner, Jack Halifax Mooseheads
9 165 Walker, Kevin Charlottetown Islanders
10 177 MacKinnon, Ray Blainville-Boisbriand Armada
Jun 26, 2021

Peddle Selected 2nd in 2021 QMJHL Entry Draft

10 Tyler Peddle

Congratulations to former Nova Captain Tyler Peddle who has been selected second over all by The Drummondville Voltigeurs in the 2021 QMJHL Entry Draft. Tyler is still undecided if he will play Major Junior Hockey or NCAA Hockey but The Novas will be following him wherever he decides to play!

Jun 25, 2021

Boyle Joins Nova Coaching Staff

Boyle

Nova U-15 Major Hockey Team President Shane MacIsaac announced today that Andrew Boyle is joining the team’s coaching staff for the 2021-2022 hockey season.

The 22-year-old native of Afton, Nova Scotia, played his minor hockey in Antigonish before playing the 2013-2014 season with the Novas, two seasons with The Cape Breton West Islanders, and then the past five seasons with The Antigonish Junior ‘B’ Bulldogs; serving as the team’s Captain from 2019-2021.

Andrew is currently entering his first year in the Education Program at Saint Francis Xavier University after graduating with his Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Kinetics this past spring.

Andrew has become a very recognizable volunteer in the Antigonish Community as a member of the local Challenger Baseball Program for the last four years and a member of The Saint Francis Xavier University MAX Program. In both programs, he assists individuals with disabilities in baseball, skating, para-sledge hockey, swimming, and other activities. He was recently named The Hockey Canada Champion for November 2020 by Hockey Canada for his community involvement.

“We are very excited to add Andrew to our program,” Nova head coach Jamie Mattie said in a statement. “He has been very successful throughout his playing career and brings a ton of energy and enthusiasm to our staff. Our young hockey players will be in great hands, and we feel that Andrew can help our players to continue to develop both on and off the ice.”

Jun 15, 2021

Novas Announce 2020-2021 Award Winners

This was certainly a hockey season for the ages…however, we can all be glad that The Nova’s were able to complete their entire shortened season when most of the country was not permitted to be on the ice. The Novas would like to thank all the players and coaches for their dedication to the team and to the game over the past season; it was the most trying in the history of Nova hockey. This team might have been on the ice more than any team in the nation this past season but their work ethic and drive to improve did not wilt as a team or as individuals. It reflects the character of the team, the players, and the coaches...and the dedicated parents who got them to this point in their hockey careers. The Novas would like to wish all our graduating players success in their future endeavors whether on or off the ice and hopefully someday when they are reminiscing, their hockey experiences this year will overshadow all the other challenges we faced this season.

Due to the increased ferocity of the COVID-19 variants this past spring and the Nova Scotia Health Authority’s regulations imposed to prevent the spread of the pandemic throughout the Province, we were unable to celebrate an awards night for our players for the second season in a row. The following 2020-2021 Major Award winners were recently announced during a scheduled social media event.

Leading ScorerDefensive Player of The Year Most Improved PlayerRookie of The YearMost Valuable Player (RS)Most Valuable Player (Playoffs)Unsung Hero Award 

Jun 15, 2021

Nova's Mourn The Death of a Former Player

The Nova's are mourning the sudden passing of one of our former players, Mark Kennedy. Mark played for the Nova's from 2011-2013 and was a formidable presence on the Nova's blue line for those two years. After graduating from The Nova's, Mark went to successfully play for The Cape Breton West Islanders, obtain a tryout with The Saint John Sea Dogs, and win a Kent Cup in 2016 with The Week's Junior A Crushers; all the while garnering a number of individual awards. The Nova's are keeping The Kennedy Family in their thoughts and prayers through this difficult time.
 
24Kennedy
 
A GoFundMe page has been created to help the family monetarily through this difficult period https://gofund.me/263fc3d1
Jun 7, 2021

Fox Named MHL Player of The Year

2020-21-PotY-WS

Former Nova and member of the 2014-2015 Atlantic Champions, Stephen Fox has been named the 2020-2021 Maritime Junior Hockey League Player of The Year. Stephen finished of his junior career with The Amherst Ramblers while finishing second in The MHL in league scoring with 28 goals and 31 assists in 34 games played.

For more on the story about Stephen, follow the link below to The MHL:

https://www.themhl.ca/mhl-names-stephen-fox-as-2020-21-player-of-the-year

Apr 24, 2021

Colten Ellis Signs with St. Louis Blues

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Former Nova (2013-2015) and current goaltender with The Charlottetown Islanders of the QMJHL, Colten Ellis recently signed his NHL Entry-Level contract with The St. Louis Blues. Colten was drafted by The Blues in the 3rd Round, 93rd overall, in the 2019 Entry Draft. Read more of the store here on The St. Louis Blues website - Blues Sign Ellis to 3-Year Entry Level Contract

Mar 1, 2021

Former Nova Receives National Award

boyle

Former Nova (2013-2014) and current captain of the Antigonish AA Munro Bulldogs Junior B hockey team, Andrew Boyle, was named Hockey Canada Champion for November. As a Hockey Canada Champion, Andrew receives a Hockey Canada jersey, Scotiabank prize pack and is featured in a video that outlined his involvement in the game and community. (Hockey Canada Video)

Andrew, a fourth-year student at St. F.X., has been involved with the local Challenger Baseball program for the past four years and is also a member of the St. F.X. MAX program. In both programs, he assists individuals with disabilities in baseball, skating, para-sledge hockey, swimming, and other activities.

Dec 3, 2020

Updated 2020-2021 Training Camp Schedule

 The Nova Major Hockey Team have announced the dates for their upcoming 2020-2021 Training Camp & Tryouts for the upcoming season.  Training camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2020-2021 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. The full schedule for Stage I is listed below:

Stage I

Date

Time

Location

 

September 1

5:30PM-7:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Blue

September 2

5:30PM-7:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Black

September 3

5:30PM-7:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Blue

September 4

5:30PM-7:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Black

September 5

10:00AM-12:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Blue

September 5

2:00PM-4:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Black

September 8

5:00PM-6:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Blue

September 10

5:00PM-6:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Black

September 12

10:00AM-12:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Blue

September 12

2:00PM-4:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Black

September 13

10:00AM-12:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Black

September 13

2:00PM-4:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

Team Blue

September 14

Roster Reduced To 30 Players

Stage II

Date

Time

Location

September 15

7:00PM-8:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 17

7:00PM-8:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 19

10:00AM-12:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 20

10:00AM-12:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 22

7:00PM-8:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 24

7:00PM-8:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 25

Roster Reduced To 24 Players

September 26

10:00AM-12:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 27

10:00AM-12:00PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 29

7:00PM-8:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

September 30

Last Day to Release Players (Roster of 19)

October 1

7:00PM-8:30PM

Charles V. Keating Centre

October 2

Final Roster Selection

Sep 1, 2020

2020-2021 Nova Major Hockey Communication Registration

The Novas are in the process of planning for the upcoming 2020-2021 Hockey Season in accordance with the requirements set forth by the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League, Hockey Nova Scotia, Hockey Canada, The Government of Nova Scotia, and the Nova Scotia Health Authority. We are moving forward with the scheduling of dates for tryouts, games and tournaments but everything is very tentative due to the current pandemic. We ask all U-15 age hockey players for the 2020-2021 hockey season that are interested in trying out for The Novas to complete the registration form (Link Below) to receive direct communication from The Novas as our plans and schedule for the upcoming season develop.

2020-2021 Communication Registration Form

Aug 4, 2020

Novas' Captain Tyler Peddle Commits to Shattuck-St. Mary's

T

The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team is proud to announce that forward Tyler Peddle has committed to Shattuck-St. Mary's School for the 2020-2021 Hockey Season.

The Nova's Captain had two memorable years in The Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League setting league records of goals in a single season (57) and goals in a career (84) but is now setting his sights on the future and has chosen to continue his development at Shattuck-St. Mary's.

Shattuck-St. Mary's, in Faribault, Minnesota, is well-known for its Hockey Center of Excellence and since the late 1990s, the program has had a considerable amount of domestic and international success and has gained a reputation as being "to hockey what Harvard is to law." Shattuck-St. Mary's has been the development path chosen by notable alumni such as Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon & Jonathan Toews.

The Novas wish Tyler good luck and great success in his future!



Apr 10, 2020

2019-2020 Cavendish Farms NSMBHL Provincial Championships

All 18 games of the Cavendish Farms Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League Provincial Championship will be brought to you live by Petter Pictou Sports and 3Sixty Live. Don't miss out on any action by following this link:



For any and all information regarding the 2019-2020 Cavendish Farms NSMBHL Provincial Championship Tournament, make sure to visit our Facebook Page!

Feb 12, 2020

Cavendish Farms to be Tournament Sponsor

The Novas are happy to announce that Cavendish Farms will be the main sponosr of this year's Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League Provincial Championship Tournament! The tournament is being held on March 12th-15th at The Charles V. Keating Millennium Center on the campus of Saint Francis Xavier University in Antigonish.

Be sure to follow the tournament Facebook page to receive all tournament updates and announcements!

Feb 1, 2020

50 Goals In 25 Games!

The Novas celebrated as a team yesterday after a 6-1 win over the JonelJim Cougars in Sydney. The celebration was for their Captain Tyler Peddle, with two goals in the game, he upped his season total to 50 goals in 25 games. The first Nova to ever top 50 goals in a single season!

Jan 27, 2020

Wear It For Wishes



The Nova Bantams hosted their annual Wear it for Wishes fundraiser Saturday evening at the Antigonish Arena, when they faced off against the ACCEL Hawks.

The Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League (NSMBHL) initiative, one in which all teams participate, is an annual event in support of the Children’s Wish Foundation.
Matthew LeBlanc of Port Hawkesbury, a wish recipient, served as honorary captain for the Nova Bantams and dropped the ceremonial puck.
He and his twin brother, Ben, also got the chance to visit with the team's players in their locker room.
From the home game, the Novas will donate 50/50 and ticket sale proceeds, along with monies from other team fundraisers.
The NSMBHL goal is to make a $100,000 donation to the foundation – the total raised by teams over the past four seasons – during the league’s annual provincial tournament, which the Novas will host in early 2020.
On the ice, Tyler Peddle scored twice, including the OT winner, while Jack Milner notched the win between the pipes, to pace the Nova Bantams - who donned their Children's Wish Foundation jerseys, to a 4-3 victory over the Hawks. (Contributed)


 



Dec 14, 2019

Sleep Theraputics - Player of the Week

Rory is a second year Nova that is being counted on very heavily this year for leadership. He is very strong on both sides of the puck; his speed makes him one of the toughest penalty killers in the League and his shot makes him a lethal scorer as well. Both were on display Saturday as Rory tallied a goal and four helpers in the Novas' win over The Cougars.

Dec 10, 2019

Helping To Grow The Game of Hockey

The Novas recently spent some time introducing the game of hockey to children participating in Antigonish Multisport.

Antigonish Multisport is a collaborative project, for children in grades primary and one, between 10 community sport organizations and two municipal recreation departments, with the support of numerous community sport stakeholders (locally, provincially and nationally).

Their vision is to grow children through sport by providing opportunities to develop skills and confidence to enjoy the positive benefits of a quality, first experience.

The Novas, as local role models in the game of hockey, have volunteered their time over the last four years to show their love of the game and to help Antigonish Multisport introduce the game of hockey.





Nov 7, 2019

NSMBHL Player of The Week

Tyler Peddle, the recently appointed Captain of the Novas, is this week's NSMBHL Player of The Week. Tyler carried the load for The Novas this past weekend by scoring a total of six goals and three assists. The second year forward, scored five goals and two assists for a total of seven points in Sunday’s win over the Whalers. The Nova’s will be counting on Tyler this season, as one of their veteran leaders, on and off the ice.

Oct 1, 2019

Colten Ellis Drafted By Stanley Cup Champions

Colten Ellis is the first Nova to be drafted into the National Hockey League in the history of our team! Colten was selected today in the 3rd Round, 93rd Overall by the Stanley Cup Champion St. Louis Blues!

Jun 22, 2019

2019 Checking Clinic & Spring Identification Camp

The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp in May 2019. This Identification Camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2019-2020 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. From this camp, a list of players will be identified and invited to Final Tryouts and our Training Camp in August.
All 1st Year Bantam Players in the 2019-2020 season are required to attend a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic prior to participating in any Major Bantam Spring Identification Camp. If you are a 1st Year Bantam player or have not participated in a Hockey Nova Scotia approved checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Spring Identification Camp, you are required to attend a checking clinic. The Novas checking clinic is scheduled for May 10th at the St. Andrew Junior School in Antigonish and May 13th at the Antigonish Arena. This clinic is not required for goaltenders.

Checking Clinic ($50)
Day 1
Date: Friday, May 10, 2019
     Location: St. Andrew Junior School, Antigonish
          5:30 - 6:00 - Registration
          6:00 - 6:45 - Video and Classroom Session
          7:00 - 8:00 - Off Ice Clinic (Players In Full Gear)
                              Sneakers required for footwear.

Day 2
Date: Monday, May 13, 2019
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          5:00 - 7:00 – On Ice Clinic (Players In Full Gear)

Checking Clinic Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 10, 2019). 

Please complete and submit the registration form in the link above and ensure to provide the registration fee at the registration desk on May 10, 2019.
Registration fees may also be submitted electronically with e-transfers sent to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of the Checking Clinic.

 

  
Spring ID Camp ($80)
Day 1
Date: Wednesday, May 15, 2019
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          4:30 pm - 5:30 pm - Registration
          5:00 pm - 6:00 pm - Goalie Evaluations
          6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - Defenseman Evaluations
          7:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Forward Evaluations
Day 2
Date: Monday, May 20, 2019
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          6:00pm - 8:00pm  – Inter-Squad Game #1

Day 3
Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2019
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          6:00pm - 8:00pm  – Inter-Squad Game #2

Spring Identification Camp Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 15, 2019).

Please complete and submit the registration form in the link above and ensure to provide the registration fee at the registration desk on May 15, 2019.
Registration fees may also be submitted electronically with e-transfers sent to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of the Spring ID Camp.

For information, please contact:
Mike Stewart        (902) 870-2156 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac    (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

PLEASE BE AWARE
Regulations of the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2019 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring Identification Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.
Additionally, Players must try out for the team within the Region in which the player resides. Failure to participate in the Identification Camp of the team within the player's residential region results in the player being ineligible to participate in Major Bantam Hockey in the Province of Nova Scotia.



Apr 17, 2019

2018-2019 NSMBHL Rookie All-Stars

The Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League have announced their All-Star Teams for the 2018-2019 season. The award presentation took place during the NSMBHL Provincial Championship tournament being hosted by The Wearwell Bombers this weekend in Pictou County. First year Nova forward Tyler Peddle and defenseman Leighton Stewart were recognized for their performances over the course of the season and were named to the NSMBHL Rookie All-Star Team.

Mar 14, 2019

EnviroBate Environmental Remediation Services Player of the Week

Sara is in her second year with The Novas, this diminutive left winger has a reputation for her tenacity and speed along with her “never back down” attitude. On Saturday, she capped off her stellar two year Major Bantam career with The Nova’s lone goal against The Gulls and then lead the team defensively in Sunday’s 2-1 overtime win against The Cougars. Sara’s reputation is growing quickly in female hockey circles and she is using her time with The Novas as a stepping stone to a future in elite level hockey!

Feb 20, 2019

Kennedy Becomes Newest Member of The Novas

John Michael Kennedy, of Port Hawkesbury, is the newest member of the Nova Family. In a presentation during which he received his Nova jersey, John Michael became an honorary member of the 2018-2019 Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team. John Michael, is this season's Children's Wish Foundation representative that will participate in the Wear It For Wishes hockey game that The Novas are playing on February 9th against the All Credit Auto Rangers at the Antigonish Arena. All proceeds from the game will be donated to the Children's Wish Foundation on behalf of The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team. The Novas encourage everyone to come out to their game on February 9th and support their fundraiser for the Children's Wish Foundation.

In an effort to exceed last year's fundraising total, The Novas are hosting an on-line auction on their Facebook site. Items in the auction have been kindly donated to The Novas in support of this great cause. If you'd like to support The Novas in their fundraising effort, you can bid on the auction items here:

Children's Wish Foundation On-Line Auction

Jan 29, 2019

EnviroBate Environmental Remediation Services Player of the Week

The Nova Scotia Major Bantam Player of The Week is Nova second year defenseman Liam Trenholm. Liam currently leads all Nova defensemen in scoring with 5 goals and 10 assists in 25 games after adding 3 assists this past weekend to his totals. Liam has come a long way since suffering a season ending broken leg in September of 2017 that kept him off the ice for most of last year after cracking The Nova line-up as a rookie defenseman. After a long year of rehabilitation and watching from the stands; Liam’s determination to return to The Nova line-up was unquenchable. Liam has become one of The Novas team leaders both on and off the ice and appears to have a very strong future in hockey.

Jan 23, 2019

EnviroBate Environmental Remediation Services Player of the Week

Jack Milner is a first year Major Bantam player that tends the nets for The Nova’s. Jack is the epitome of calmness and composure; nothing seems to bother him when he is in game mode. Jack turned aside all 23 shots he faced from The Barons in Saturday nights’ 3-0 win, recording his third and League leading shutout of the season. The shutout also ties Jack with former Nova and current Rimouski Oceanic goaltender, Colten Ellis for the single season franchise record of three shutouts in one season. Jack is one of the major factors in the recent success of The Novas as he provides his team with every opportunity for success.

Jan 9, 2019

2018 NSMBHL Showcase

Second year Novas Liam Trenholm, Jacob Cook and Ryan Digout have been selected to participate in the 2018 Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey Leage Showcase. The NSMBHL Showcase Game is hosted this year in East Hants at The Keith Miller Arena by the All Credit Auto Rangers on December 29th with a game time of 4:00PM. This annual event showcases the top second year players across the NSMBHL.

Notable Novas that have participated in the NSMBHL Showcase in the past include:
1) Colten Ellis (G) - Rimouski Oceanic (QMJHL)
2) Jacob Hudson (F) - Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
3) Logan Timmons (F) - Yarmouth Mariners (MHL)
4) Ryan MacLellan (D) - Rouyn-Noranda Huskies (QMJHL)
5) Jacob Stewart (F) - Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)
6) Logan Chisholm (F) - L'Acadie Bathurst Titan (QMJHL)
7) Sean Stewart (D) - Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)

Dec 19, 2018

2018-2019 Nova Training Camp

  The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team have announced the dates for their upcoming 2018-2019 Training Camp & Tryouts for the upcoming season.  Training camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2018-2019 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association.  For full details on all training camp sessions see the Team Schedule on this website.

Stage I - $175.00
August 15 - August 20
(At the end of Stage I the roster will be reduced to 22 Players.)

Stage II - $175.00
August 21 - August 27
(At the end of Stage II the roster will be reduced to 20 players.)

Training Camp Registration Form

Please complete the above registration form prior to your child participating in training camp.  Please provide (i) a cheque dated August 15th for $175.00 and (ii) a second cheque dated August 21th for $175.00 payable to Nova Major Bantam Hockey.  Only players who move onto Stage II of tryouts will have the second cheque cashed. The Registration Form must be completed prior to 3:00PM on Tuesday August 15, 2018. Please confirm participation and provide registration fees at the registration table that will be available at the Keating Centre from 4:00-4:45PM.

Registration fees may also be submitted electronically with e-transfers sent to president@novahockey.ca. Please ensure that all e-transfers are submitted prior to the beginning date of each stage of our training camp.



Aug 4, 2018

Mattie Joins Nova Coaching Staff

Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team President Shane MacIsaac announced today that Jamie Mattie is joining the team’s coaching staff for the 2018-2019 season.
The 37-year-old native of Bayfield, Nova Scotia, played his minor hockey in Antigonish and then went on to play two seasons with The Antigonish Junior ‘A’ Bulldogs, serving as the team’s Captain in 1999-2000. Mattie completed his junior career with the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL, where he received The Defenseman of The Year Award in 2000-2001 and where he still holds the USHL Single Season Record for Assists by a Defenseman. Mattie went on to play professionally for five years for The Graz EC in Austria in The Austrian Elite League. “In Jamie Mattie, we get an individual who knows the game of hockey. His wealth of experience in both the North American and European styles makes him an invaluable
resource. I’ve known Jamie and his family since he first joined the Bulldogs in 1998; they are great hockey people in our community and are dedicated supporters of all levels of hockey. When we became aware that Jamie may be interested in joining The Novas, there was no discussion or debate; Coach Stewart and I jumped at the chance to talk to him.”

May 24, 2018

Nova Awards Night

The Novas recently celebrated their past season in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League with their annual awards banquet. This year’s major award winners were:

Top Defensive Player- Kier Jordan
Rookie of The Year-Jacob Cook
Most Improved Player-Brandon Connors
Playoff MVP- Kenzie MacPhail
Most Valuable Player-Dylan Chisholm
Top Scorer (s)-Trey Sturge, Luke Gould
Unsung Hero Award -Charlie Leblanc

 



May 1, 2018

EnviroBate Environmental Remediation Services Player of the Week

The Novas' Liam Berthiaume has been awarded the NSMBHL Player of The Week. Liam is a first year bantam who cracked The Nova’s lineup late out of training camp. Although from Pictou County, Liam has strong family and hockey roots in Antigonish, where his father and uncle were standouts with the Junior A Bulldogs in the late 90’s. Liam has been consistently improving his game over the course of the season and has become one of the more aggressive and physical forwards in The Nova’s line-up. On Saturday, Liam scored the third and go ahead goal in the 2nd period against the Bedford Barons after being down 2-0 early in the first. When regulation and overtime did not result in a decision, Liam captured the win for The Nova’s when he scored in the 5th round and the final shot of the shootout.

Feb 1, 2018

MacPhail Named Top Goalie at 2018 East Coast Ice Jam

Kenzie MacPhail, in his second year with The Novas, was awarded the Best Major Bantam Goalie in the 2018 East Coast ice Jam this past weekend. In Round Robin play Kenzie recorded 2 wins, one shutout and a 0.98 Goals Against Average. Kenzie, along with Brandon Connors, backstopped The Novas to their longest winning streak of four games in the 2017-2018 season.


Jan 16, 2018

The Novas Wear It For Wishes

The Novas hosted their Wear It For Wishes game this past Saturday and during a dressing room ceremony Dan "The Hammer" Bond was inducted as an honorary member of this year's team.

Nova Coach Mike Stewart presents Dan "The Hammer"
with his custom made Nova jersey in his favorite colors
and with his favorite player's number.


The Novas will continue to raise money for The Children's Wish Foundation over the next few weeks. If you are interested in helping with a donation toward this great cause please contact us at information@novahockey.ca

The Novas want to thank Mike Hassin and his staff at The Wheel Pizza & Sub Shop for being The Wear It For Wishes game sponsor and for his continued support of our major bantam program.

For more information on Daniel Bond's story and his Wish, please see the attached information.
Daniel's Wish Story



Jan 6, 2018

First Female To Play In Showcase

Since the inception of the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League in 2010-2011, no female has participated or has been recognized to participate in the League's annual Showcase game of 2nd Year Bantam players. This season, Landyn Pitts (#27) has been selected to represent The Novas, along with her fellow team captains, Dylan Chisholm & Luke Gould, at this year's Showcase game. Below is the article that recently appeared on the NSMBHL website:

"This year’s NSMBHL Showcase game will include Landyn Pitts from The Novas, the league’s first female hockey player to receive this recognition.  A hard working two way player, Landyn is a key contributor to even strength and specialty team play with The Novas.  She is a tremendous individual who leads by example and her positive energy is contagious amongst her teammates.  Her play and leadership have earned her a role as one of the team’s assistant captains. She is extremely fortunate to be surrounded by such dedicated teammates and coaches. 
Landyn volunteers her time with Minor Hockey programs and is proud to join her teammates to support Kids Multisport and Learn to Play programs.


The NSMBHL is proud to have Landyn Pitts represent the league in the Showcase game, and is equally proud to acknowledge her as the first female to achieve this recognition." 

Dec 31, 2017

2018 NSMBHL Showcase

All three captains of the 2017-2018 Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team have been selected to participate in the NSMBHL Showcase Game on December 29th in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. The annual event is hosted by the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League to showcase the best 2nd Year Bantam Hockey players in the League.
Captain Dylan Chisholm and Alternate Captains Landyn Pitts & Luke Gould were selcted to represent The Novas this year. All three players are in their second year with the team and are quiet proud to represent the team in this year's Showcase event. 

Dec 29, 2017

The Novas Remember

On Saturday, November 11th in Antigonish, the Novas were joined by Squardon 875 of The Air Cadet League of Canada, The Antigonish Lions who provided the Color Guard while local singer Grayson Hudson performed the National Anthem. On Sunday, in Port Hawkesbury, the Novas were joined by the 719 Stora Air Cadet Squadron, who provided the Color Guard while Lainey Cummings performed the National Anthem. 


Nov 12, 2017

Nova Scotia Major Bantam Player Of The Week

Sarah Stewart is this week's NSMBHL Player of The Week. Sarah is one of two females playing in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League. She is only 5’1” and 105lbs; the bigger players in the league brush her off and knock her down but she gets right back up and goes back at them. She is determined and never gives up. This weekend she played like a giant among men and proved that this is not just a man’s game. Sarah earned the Nova Hard Hat award after Saturday’s 4-1 win against The Cougars with her hard work and determination. Then on Sunday, she was a plus 3 and scored the game winning goal for The Novas’ in the 4-3 win over the Truro Bearcats.

Nov 8, 2017

Exhibition Roster - September 2, 2017

Please find below the lineup for the exhibition game on September 2, 2017 in Truro at the Rath Eastlink Community Center against The Truro Bearcats at 12:00PM:

Goal
Kenzie MacPhail
Brandon Connors

Defense
Dylan Chisholm
Leo MacLean
Charles Leblanc
Kier Jordan
Liam Trenholm
Whalen Matthews

Forward
Luke Gould
Kenzie Cameron
Landon MacIntosh
Trey Sturge
Lowell MacDonald
Alexander MacDonald
Jacob Cook
Liam Berthiaume
Cadyn Power
Kaber MacNeil
Brody McLaren
 

Sep 1, 2017

Nova Training Camp - Stage II Results

The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team would like to thank all players that participated in Stage II of our training camp this past week. Training camp will continue on Tuesday evening, August 29th at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Center at 5:30PM. The following is a list of 21 players that are invited to continue to participate in our training camp.

Forward (In alphabetical order)
Cameron, Kenzie
Cook, Jacob
Digout, Ryan
Gould, Luke
MacDonald, Lowell
MacIntosh, Landon
McLaren, Brody
Pitts, Landyn
Power, Caydn
Stewart, Sara

Defense (In alphabetical order)
Chisholm, Dylan
Jordan, Kier
Leblanc, Charles
MacDonald, Alexander
MacLean, Leo
MacNeil, Kaber
Stewart, Zac
Trenholm, Liam
Van de Sande, Cody

Goal (In alphabetical order)
MacPhail, Kenzie
Connors, Brandon

 For those of you not selected to move on, we wish you well in the upcoming season and look forward to seeing you at next year's training camp if you are eligible to participate. In accordance with NSMBHL policy, a player release will be generated and emailed within the next 24 hours to each participant release from our hockey team. Please ensure your training camp jersey is returned to a member of The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team.

Aug 27, 2017

2017-2018 Nova Training Camp - Register Now!

  The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team have announced the dates for their 2017-2018 Training Camp & Tryouts for the upcoming season.  Training camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2017-2018 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association, Strait Area Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association.  For full details on all training camp sessions see the Team Schedule on this website.

Stage I - $125.00
August 15 - August 21
(At the end of Stage I the roster will be reduced.)

Stage II - $100.00
August 22 - August 28
(At the end of Stage II the roster will be reduced to maximum of 21 players.)

Training Camp Registration Form

Please complete the above registration form prior to your child participating in training camp.  Please provide (i) a cheque dated August 15th for $125.00 and (ii) a second cheque dated August 22th for $100.00 payable to Nova Major Bantam Hockey.  Only players who move onto Stage II of tryouts will have the second cheque cashed. Forms must be completed prior to 5:00PM on Tuesday August 15, 2017. Please confirm participation and provide registration fees at the registration table that will be available at the Keating Centre between 6:00PM & 7:00PM.


Aug 6, 2017

2017 Spring Identification Camp

The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp in May 2017. This Identification Camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2017-2018 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. From this camp, a list of players will be identified and invited to Final Tryouts and Training Camp in August.
All 1st Year Bantam Players in the 2017-2018 season are required to attend a checking clinic prior to participating in any Major Bantam Spring Identification Camp. If you are a 1st Year Bantam player or have not participated in a checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Spring Identification Camp, you are required to attend a checking clinic. The Novas checking clinic is scheduled for May 4th at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Center and May 8th at the Antigonish Arena. This clinic is not required for goaltenders.

Checking Clinic ($40)
Day 1
Date: May 4, 2017
     Location: Port Hawkesbury Civic Center
          6:00 to 6:45 - Video and Classroom Session
          7:00 to 8:00 - Off Ice Clinic (Players In Full Gear on Main Ice Surface) Sneakers
                                 required for footwear.
Day 2
Date: May 8, 2017
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          5:00 to 7:00 – On Ice Clinic

Checking Clinic Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 4, 2017). The registration form will be posted here shortly.

Please complete and submit the registration form in the link above and ensure to provide the registration fee at the registration desk on May 4, 2017.

  
Spring ID Camp ($75)
Day 1
Date: May 9, 2017
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          5:00 pm -  Goalie Evaluations
          6:00 pm -  Defenseman Evaluations
          7:00 pm -  Forward Evaluations
Day 2
Date: May 10, 2017
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          6:00pm - 8:00pm  – Inter-Squad Game #1

Day 3
Date: May 17, 2017
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          6:00pm - 8:00pm  – Inter-Squad Game #2


Spring ID Camp Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (May 9, 2017). The registration form will be posted here shortly.

Please complete and submit the registration form in the link above and ensure to provide the registration fee at the registration desk on May 9, 2017.

For information, please contact:
Mike Stewart        (902) 870-2156 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac   (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

PLEASE BE AWARE
Regulations of the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2017 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring ID Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.



Apr 23, 2017

Novas Sweep Series

The Novas swept their best of 3 playoff series against the Cole Harbour Storm on Saturday night at The Antigonish Arena on the shoulders of Captain Matthew Ellis. Down one goal after the 1st period, Ellis tied the game at 1 on the power play only to have the Storm regain a 2-1 lead to end the second period. The Nova Captain then fired of 4 straight goals in 8 minutes to stake his team to a 5-2 lead. "It was a solid team effort," stated Coach Stewart. "It was the first time in a while that we played the entire 50 minutes of a game. Matthew certainly stepped up his game tonight along with everyone else in the lineup."

Mar 5, 2017

Nova Raise $2000 for Children's Wish Foundation

The Novas hosted a Children's Wish Foundation fundraiser hockey game on November 26, 2016 at the Antigonish Arena. $2,000 was raised by the team and their supporters as Cullan Chisholm & his family represented the Foundation. Cullan, who became an honourary team member this week, dropped the puck during the ceremonial faceoff.
The Nova's defeated The Western Hurricanes in a tightly contested match. Scoring for the Novas were Ben MacLellan, Dan Gillis & Matthew Ellis. Ben Van Steinburg turned away all but two of the twenty-six shots he faced in the net. 


Nov 26, 2016

Novas Host Children's Wish Foundation Game

The Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League has made an unheralded commitment to sponsoring The Children's Wish Foundation during the entire 2016-2017 hockey season. Every team in the League is hosting a featured hockey game celebrating the work and dedication of The Foundation. On Saturday, November 26th The Novas will host The Western Hurricanes at the Antigonish Arena in celebration of The Children's Wish Foundation branch in Antigonish. All proceeds from the game and monies collected from sponsors and fans will be donated to the Foundation. Dr. Graces Braces has kindly committed to be the named sponsor of the event and has already made a significant contribution. Game time is 5:00PM.
Electronic donations can be emailed to: donations@novahockey.ca


Nov 25, 2016

Novas Earn Four Points

The Novas earned four hard fought road points this weekend. Saturday evening they faced of against the Landkwork Gulls in St. Margarets Bay, which has historically been a tough place for The Novas to earn a point. Leading the way for The Novas was defenseman Brant Timmons who recorded four assists in the game. Goals were scored by rookie Lewis Taylor (2), Jack Hartery, Daniel Gillis and Luke Gould while netminder Ben Van Steinburg stopped 30 of the 33 shots that the Gulls threw against him.
Sunday on the way home, The Novas stopped into the Wellness Center in Pictou County for a brief encounter with the Wearwell Bombers. The Novas recorded another 5 goals coming of the sticks of Lewis Taylor, Luke Gould, Ben MacLellan, Brant Timmons & Luke Hadley while they limited the Bombers to only 22 shots on goal. Goaltender Kenzie MacPhail kicked out all but two of the shots he faced from the Bombers.
The Novas head to the 36th Annual Monctonian 'AAA' Challenge this weekend to compete with 23 other Major Bantam hockey teams in the well know annual tournment. For Nova fans unable to travel to Moncton to watch their favorite team, all games will be broadcast by Bell Aliant and can be accessed from the tournament website: www.monctonian.goalline.ca
 

Nov 14, 2016

Novas Split Home & Home with Barons

The Nova Major Bantams were eager to show their mettle against the Bedford Barons this past weekend in a home & home series, as the Barons remained the only undefeated team in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League. On Saturday afternoon at The Antigonish Arena it appeared that only one team showed up with the intention of playing as The Novas skated to an 8-1 dominating win over the Barons. The Novas led a very balanced attack with goals coming from Matthew Ellis (2), Lewis Taylor, Ben MacLellan (2), Brant Timmons, Luke Hadley & Graham MacDonald and a total of twelve players on the team recording points in the game. Ben van Steinburg backstopped The Novas to the win in nets allowing only the one goal by The Barons. “We’ve been working very hard on all aspects of our game,” said Coach Mike Stewart. “We pride ourselves on being prepared for every game and every opponent. Today everything seem to come together and we were firing on all cylinders but we can still be better though, it’s only the start of the season and we have a lot of work to do to get to where we want to be.”
On Sunday, The Novas travelled to the city and came away with a 3-2 loss to a Barons team that was better prepared to play. Rookie Lewis Taylor scored both goals for The Novas with Dell Welton, Ben MacLellan and Sam Grant contributing assists. Kenzie MacPhail recorded with loss in nets stopping all but 3 of the 21 shots he faced. “We learned some valuable lessons today about teamwork and not taking our opponent for granted. Our players recognize that we need to keep improving in certain areas of our game and that we have to come to the rink ready to play every day.”
The Novas open the month of October on the road as they visit the Pro Hockey Life Harbour Storm next Saturday at Cole Harbour Place with a 7:00PM start time and then they face off on Sunday against the Halifax Accel Hawks at the Halifax Civic Arena at 11:30AM.

Sep 26, 2016

Nova Training Camp - Stage I Results

The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team would like to thank all players that participated in Stage I of our training camp this past week. Stage II will commence tomorrow at 5:30PM with a dry land training session at The Oland Center. The following is a list of players that are invited to continue to participate in our training camp.



Forward (In no particular order)
Taylor, Lewis              Gould, Luke
Gillis, Daniel               MacDonald, Lowell
Leblanc, Daniel           Thomson, Frank
Matthews, Dave          Ellis, Matthew
Leuschner, Nelson      Grant, Sam
Larade, Brayden          Pitts, Landyn
Hadley, Blake

Defense (In no particular order)
Stewart, Zac               MacDonald, Graham
Hartery, Jack              MacLellan, Ben
Chisholm, Dylan          Timmons, Brant
Kennedy, Angus          Welton, Dell
MacLean, Neil             Hadley, Luke
MacNeil, Kaber

Goal (In no particular order)
MacPhail, Kenzie        Connors, Brandon
MacPherson, Chase    Van Steinburg, Ben

 For those of you not selected for Stage II, we wish you well in the upcoming season and look forward to seeing you at next year's training camp if you are eligible to participate. In accordance with NSMBHL policy, a player release will be generated and emailed within the next 24 hours to each participant not invited to Stage II of our training camp. Please ensure your training camp jersey is returned to a member of The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team.
 



Aug 21, 2016

MacLean Commits to Rothesy Netherwood School

After patrolling the blue line for The Novas during the 2015-2016 season as the only female in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League, Ella MacLean commits to Rothesay Netherwood School for the 2016-2017 season. When reached Jeff Lewis, Director of Hockey Operations for Rothesay Netherwood School, commented, "“We are very excited to have a student-athlete of Ella’s calibre decide to attend RNS to help further her academic and hockey growth. Ella has had a tremendous minor hockey career and will be a great addition to our school community and our female varsity hockey program at RNS. Our school has done well preparing student-athletes to be successful at the university level, and we feel with Ella’s skill set and work ethic that we will help her to reach her academic and hockey goals.”
With high expectations, The Novas wish Ella good luck and tremendous success as she continues with her academic and hockey careers!

Jun 20, 2016

STFX X-Men Announce Summer Off-Ice Hockey Development Program

X-MEN SUMMER OFF-ICE HOCKEY DEVELOPMENT
The basic objective of the X-Men Off-Ice Hockey Development Program is to provide Long Term Player Development for players interested in sport specific conditioning opportunities in Hockey. Complete the following online form to be submitted to X-Men Hockey. Any inquires and questions regarding family prizing rates please email xmenhockey@stfx.ca

Registration Form

Jun 5, 2016

Nova Award Winners

Top Defenseman - Sean Stewart
Top Goal Scorer - Logan Chisholm
Rookie of Year - Dell Welton
Unsung Hero - Darren Waterman
Most Improved Player(s)- Matthew Helpard & Matthew Raike
Playoff MVP - Jake Stewart
Team MVP - Logan Chisholm


May 10, 2016

Nova Spring ID Camp Inter Squad Team

Team Blue   Team White
# Player Name Pos   # Player Name Pos
2 MacKay, Kolby F   3 MacRae, Dylan Hugh F
4 Neil, Aaron Edward F   10 Ellis, Matthew Donavan F
6 McLaren, Brody Jacob F   11 Pitts, Landyn F
7 Gillis, Daniel MacNeil F   13 Ellis, Chase Camden F
9 MacDonald, Lowell F   14 Larade, Brayden Marc F
9 Mailman, Caleb-Devan William F   15 Gerroir , Andre Réal F
12 Taylor, Lewis Judson Robert F   17 Hadley, Blake Evan F
19 Gould, Luke F   21 Jordan, Keir Alexander F
20 Pictou, Tyler Keon F   22 Leuschner, Nelson Joesph F
F LeBlanc, Daniel Thomas F   23 Thomson, Frank Bryce F
2 Stewart, Zac Liam D   27 Chisholm, Duncan Joseph F
4 MacLellan, Ben D   3 Morgan, Faith Marie D
9 Hartery, Jack Michael D   7 MacDonald, Drew D
13 Chisholm, Dylan Thomas D   11 Hadley, Luke Edward D
20 Timmons, Brant Howard D   12 MacDonald, Graham Thomas D
21 MacNeil, Kaber Nolan D   16 Pinkohs, Ethan Alexander D
27 MacLean, Neil Howard D   18 Welton, Dell Enoch D
  Connors, Brandon Eugene G   22 Kennedy, Angus Roderick D
  MacEachern, Mathew Leo Bernard G   24 Johnson, Hunter Gerard Kitpu D
  MacPhail, Kenzie Walker G     MacIntyre, Douglas Boyd G
  Walker, Donovan G     MacPherson, Chase Bailey G
          McNamara, Garrison Michael G
          Van Steinburg, Ben Allan G


May 6, 2016

2016 Nova Major Bantam Spring ID Camp

The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp in May 2016. This Identification Camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2016-2017 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. From this camp, a list of players will be identified and invited to Final Tryouts and Training Camp in August.
All 1st Year Bantam Players in the 2016-2017 season are required to attend in a checking clinic prior to participating in any Major Bantam Spring Identification Camp. If you are a 1st Year Bantam player or have not participated in a checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Spring ID Camp you are required to attend a checking clinic. A checking clinic is scheduled for May 2nd at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Center and May 3rd at the Antigonish Arena. This clinic is not required for goaltenders.

Checking Clinic ($40)
Day 1
Date: May 2, 2016
     Location: Port Hawkesbury Civic Center
          4:30 to 5:30 - Video and Classroom Session
          5:45 to 7:00 - Off Ice Clinic (Players In Full Gear
                                 on Main Ice Surface) Sneakers
                                 required for footwear.
Day 2
Date: May 3, 2016
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          4:30 to 6:30 – On Ice Clinic

Checking Clinic Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (Monday May 2, 2016).

Please complete and submit the registration form in the link above and ensure to provide the registration fee at the registration desk on May 2, 2016.

  
Spring ID Camp ($100)
Day 1
Date: May 6, 2016
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          4:30 pm - Goalie Evaluations
          5:30 pm -  Forward Evaluations
          6:30 pm -  Defenseman Evaluations
Day 2
Date: May 7, 2016
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          9:00 am - Team White Practice
          10:30 am - Team Blue Practice
          4:00 pm – Inter-Squad Game #1
Day 3
Date: May 8, 2016
     Location: Antigonish Arena
          1:00 pm – Inter-Squad Game #2
          4:30 pm – Inter-Squad Game #3

Spring ID Camp Registration must be completed and registration fees must be received prior to player participation (Monday May 6, 2016).

Please complete and submit the registration form in the link above and ensure to provide the registration fee at the registration desk on May 6, 2016.

For information, please contact:
Mike Stewart        (902) 870-2156 coach@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac   (902) 867-7297 president@novahockey.ca

PLEASE BE AWARE
Regulations of the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League require all registration forms must be received by the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2016 Spring Identification Camp. A player will not be permitted to participate in any aspect of the Checking Clinic or Spring ID Camp until registration is received and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia.



Apr 16, 2016

NSMBHL Player of The Week

Ella MacLean had a very difficult decision to make at the start of the season; was she going to make the jump from Bantam AA to Major Midget Girls Hockey or was she going to continue her development with The Nova Major Bantams?  Ella and her family decided that she would have a better opportunity to develop her game and skills if she continued to play with boys. Known for her hockey sense and her sound defensive play she quickly fit into the Novas’ defensive corps. With 2 goals and 1 assist in this past Sunday’s game against Kings Mutual Valley Wildcats, Ella had her first 3 point game of her Major Bantam career. Ella is one of the few girls who have chosen the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League as their path for their development and she is quickly becoming a stand out.

Dec 2, 2015

Novas Capture Four Points On The Road

The Novas were on the road this past weekend in NSMBHL action. On Saturday they were in Berwick where they faced off against the Kings Mutual Valley Wildcats and skated away with a 2-1 win in a low scoring defensive affair. Scoring for the Novas, with both goals was, Logan Chisholm for his League Leading 13th & 14th goals of the season. Jake Stewart, Matthew Ellis & Mason Grant provided the helps on the goals. Owen MacDonald stopped 20 of the 21 shots that the Wildcats fired at his new.
On Sunday, the Novas stopped in to see the Bearcats on the way home and were victorious in a high scoring 6-5 game. Ewan MacDonald tended the nets for the Novas turning aside 30 of the 35 shots he faced. The Novas were led offensively by Matthew Ellis with his first hat-trick of his young bantam career. Logan Chisholm, Chase Ellis & Matthew Raike picked up singles to round out the scoring.
The Novas take a break from League action this weekend and travel to Moncton to participate in the Monctonian AAA Challenge. In Round Robin play they will face off against The Moncton Hawks at 8:30am Thursday morning, the Dartmouth Whalers Thursday at 7:00PM and finally against the Prince County Warriors on Friday at 2:45PM. Follow the Novas on Twitter @Nova_Bantams for regular updates.

Nov 9, 2015

Novas Successful At Atlantic Challenge Cup

Congratulations to those members of The Novas that participated as members of the various teams from Nova Scotia in the Atlantic Challenge Cup in Moncton, New Brunswick last weekend.
Team Nova Scotia Male Under-15 – Gold Medal Winners
  • Jake Stewart ‘C’ - Forward
  • Logan Chisholm - Forwarf
Team Nova Scotia Female Under-16 – Silver Medal Winners
  • Ella MacLean – Defense
Team Nova Scotia Male Under-14 – Silver Medal Winners
  • Chase Ellis – Forward
  • Matthew Ellis – Forward
  • Del Welton – Defense
Congratulations from Nova Hockey also goes out to Logan Chisholm who was awarded the Bauer Hard Hat Award for Under-15 Team Nova Scotia, who was determined by his teammates to be the player that has the most positive attitude, greatest work ethic and is a teammate of whom all are proud to be associated.   

Oct 13, 2015

Home & Home Against Crushers

     After a devastating loss to the Halifax Hawks the previous weekend, a refocused Nova team rebounded with two straight wins in a home & home series against the Scotsburn Crushers. On Saturday evening in Port Hawkesbury The Novas skated to a 9-1 win over the Crushers in a hard hitting but one-sided affair. Scoring for The Novas was Logan Chisholm and Chase Ellis each with 2 goals and 3 points on the night, Adam Hilling with 2 goal and Darren Waterman, Matthew Ellis and Jake Stewart with singles. Ewan MacDonald started in goal for The Novas and stopped 9 of the 10 shots that he faced.
The Novas played their second game against the Crushers Sunday afternoon at the Pictou County Wellness Center and were able to hold on to a 4-1 win in a much closer game than the previous night. Scoring for The Novas were Michael Putnam, Matthew Ellis, Matthew Raike & Mason Grant. Owen MacDonald earned the win between the pipes for The Novas stopping 28 of the 29 shots taken by Pictou.

    The Nova also would like to recognize the following players that will be participating in the Atlantic Challenge Cup this coming weekend in Moncton, New Brunswick: Logan Chisholm & Jake Stewart as members of the Nova Scotia Under-15 team and Chase Ellis, Matthew Ellis & Del Welton as members of Nova Scotia Under-14. We would like to wish the boys good luck and are confident they will represent their team and provnce with Nova Pride. 

Oct 5, 2015

Novas Open The Season On The Road With 2 Wins

The Nova Major Bantams opened the 2015-2016 hockey season, in defense of their Atlantic and Provincial Championships, on the road in Halifax this past weekend.
On Saturday evening The Novas battled the Dartmouth Whalers to a 3-2 victory. Scoring for the Novas were returning players Chase Ellis, Jake Stewart and Logan Chisholm. Stewart contributed two assists in the game for a three point night. Owen MacDonald, from Port Hood, handled the goaltending for The Novas turning aside 13 of the 15 shots he faced.
The Novas visited the Cole Harbour Storm on Sunday afternoon and skated away with a 6-1 victory. Scoring for The Nova were Jake Stewart with 2 goals, Matthew Raike with 2 goals, Logan Chisholm and Ella MacLean each with singles. Ewan MacDonald faced 24 shots by the Storm in nets for the Novas.
The Novas next see action next weekend when they face off against The Landworks Gulls in their home opener Saturday evening at 5:00PM in Port Hawkesbury. On Sunday the Halifax Accel Hawks visit for a 1:00PM start time in Port Hawkesbury.

Sep 21, 2015

2015 - 2016 Training Camp

  The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team have announced the dates for their 2015-2016 Training Camp & Tryouts for the upcoming season.  Training camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2015-2016 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association.  For full details on all training camp sessions see the schedule on this website.

Stage I - $125.00
August 14 - August 16
(At the end of Stage I the roster will be reduced.)

Stage II - $100.00
August 17 - August 23
(At the end of Stage II the roster will be reduced to minimum of 19 players.)

Training Camp Registration Form

Please complete the above registration form prior to your child participating in training camp.  Please provide (i) a cheque dated August 14th for $125.00 and (ii) a second cheque dated August 17th for $100.00 payable to Nova Major Bantam Hockey.  Only players who move onto Stage II of tryouts will have the second cheque cashed. Forms must be completed prior to 1:00PM on Friday August 14, 2015. Please confirm participation and provide registration fees at the registration table that will be available at the Keating Centre between 2:00PM & 3:00PM.


Aug 8, 2015

2015 Spring ID Camp Announced

The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team will be holding their Spring Identification Camp in May 2015. This Identification Camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2015-2016 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association. From this camp, a list of players will be identified and invited to Final Tryouts and Training Camp in August.
All 1st Year Bantam Players in the 2015-2016 season are required to attend in a checking clinic prior to participating in any Major Bantam Spring Identification Camp. If you are a 1st Year Bantam player or have not participated in a checking clinic in the past and are intent on attending the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Spring ID Camp you are required to attend a checking clinic. A checking clinic is scheduled for April 30th at the Antigonish Arena at 6:00PM-8:00PM. This clinic is not required for goaltenders.

Checking Clinic (Antigonish Arena):
Registration Fee: $30.00
Thursday, April 30             6:00PM – 8:00PM

Identification Camp (Antigonish Arena):
Registration Fee: $135.00
Friday, May 22                  5:30PM – 5:50PM         Parent Meeting
                                        6:00PM – 8:00PM         On-Ice Assessment
Saturday, May 23             9:00AM – 4:00PM         On-Ice Assessment
                                       7:00PM – 8:30PM         Black & White Scrimmage #1
Sunday, May 24               9:00AM – 10:00AM      On-Ice Assessment (Goalies Only)
                                       10:00AM – 11:30AM     Black & White Scrimmage #2
                                       
2:30PM – 4:00PM         Black & White Scrimmage #3
 

Registration must be completed and fees received prior to player participation (Friday, May 22, 2015).
Please complete and submit the registration form in the link above and ensure to provide the registration fee at the registration table on May 22, 2015.

For information, please contact:
Mike Stewart        (902) 870-2156     manager@novahockey.ca
Shane MacIsaac   TBD                     president@novahockey.ca
or 
Nova Major Bantam Hockey

606 Reeves Street
Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia
B9A 2R7

PLEASE BE AWARE
Under new regulations by the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League, all registration forms must be received by the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team and submitted to Hockey Nova Scotia prior to any player participating in the 2015 Spring Identification Camp.



Apr 21, 2015

2015 Irving Challenge Cup Champions!

The Novas captured the Atlantic Canadian Championships with an exciting 2-1 win over The Dartmouth Whalers

Apr 12, 2015

Nova Scotia Major Bantam Provincial Champions!

The Nova Major Bantams participated in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Provincial Championship Tournament this past weekend at the Keith Miller Arena in East Hants.  “We have had a lot of discussions with the boys about what to expect in provincials the past two weeks, “ commented head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “We have seen these teams many times in the past year - they are all great hockey teams, and we know what each and every one of them bring to the table.  If we play our best hockey throughout the tournament, I know we can be successful!” The Novas started out slowly, however, in Game One on Thursday, losing 3-0 to the surging JonelJim Cougars.  In Game Two on Friday morning, the Novas again struggled out of the gate again against the Newbridge Senators and held a slim 2-1 lead in the third on goals by Ryan MacLellan (assist - Jacob Stewart) and Logan Chisholm (unassisted), until Chase Ellis (assists - Logan Timmons and Ryan MacLellan) and Jacob Stewart (unassisted) potted empty net goals en route to a 4-1 triumph.  In Game 3 against the Pro Hockey Life Harbour Storm on Friday afternoon, the Novas trailed 1-0 going into the third period before exploding for four goals to take the game 4-1.  Scoring for the Novas in the third period of the game were Malcolm MacEachern (assist - Chase Ellis), Stephen Fox (assist - Logan Timmons), Calum MacPherson (assists - Fearghus MacDonald and Ryan MacLellan), and Darren Waterman (unassisted).  “I really thought we turned a corner in the third period of this game,” said coach MacDonald. “We started to play hard in all three zones, and limited the chances on our goaltending. Colton Ellis stood tall for us in the first couple of games, and we didn't support him as well as we should have.”
Game 4 took place on Saturday morning with the Novas shutting out the Bedford Barons 5-0.  Chase Ellis led the way for the Novas with a hat trick; Fearghus MacDonald had a three point effort (1 goal and 2 assists).  Malcolm MacEachern and Darren Waterman each chipped in two assists; Stephen Fox potted a goal and Lucas Fabijancic and Jacob Hudson rounded out the scoring with an assist each.  Colton Ellis and Kolby Baker shared the goaltending duties in the shutout.  The win put the Novas, the Bedford Barons and the Dartmouth Whalers at 3-1 and gave the Novas a re-match with the Barons in the semi-final game on Saturday evening.  

 

In the nail-biting semi-final, the Barons seemed ready to avenge the morning defeat taking a quick 2-0 lead on the Novas until team captain Calum MacPherson (assist - Fearghus MacDonald) and Jacob Hudson (assist - Logan Chisholm) knotted the game at two. The teams remained deadlocked at 2 until Jacob Hudson potted his second of the game (assists - Fearghus MacDonald and Ryan MacLellan) and put the Novas ahead early in the second.  The remainder of the game saw great action at both ends with timely saves by Nova’s tender Colton Ellis to preserve the 3-2 lead and give the Novas spot in the final against the Dartmouth Whalers.    


In the Championship game, some excellent play from both squads resulted in a scoreless first period.  Dartmouth got on the board first with 29 seconds to go in the second and preserved the one goal lead until late in the game when Ellis was pulled for the extra attacker, and Fearghus MacDonald potted the equalizer (assists - Ryan MacLellan and Malcolm MacEachern) sending the game into overtime. The game see-sawed through the first overtime until Jacob Hudson netted the winner at 1:21 into the second overtime (assists - Logan Chisholm and Blair Fraser) securing the provincial banner and sending the Novas to the Major Bantam Atlantics.  Colton Ellis was named the top goaltender, Ryan MacLellan the top defenseman, and Jacob Hudson netted MVP honours.  “What a game and what a tournament - that really sums it up,” said Coach MacDonald. “The boys really brought their A games the last three games when it counted - they fore-checked hard, blocked a ton of shots, back-checked hard, and and created so many turnovers.  I am really proud of these guys - this is something they will never forget.”  The Novas return to the ice at the Irving Challenge Cup Major Bantam Atlantics to be held at the Dartmouth Sportsplex, April 9-12, 2015 - best of luck to the Novas as they play for the Atlantic Major Bantam title.  

Mar 15, 2015

2015 Memorial Tournament Champions!

Novas Capture 2015 Memorial Championship by defeating the Scotsburn Crushers 2-1

Feb 15, 2015

Novas Split Weekend On The Road

The Nova Major Bantams were back in league action this past weekend with a pair of road games against the ACCEL Halifax Hawks and the Pro Hockey Like Harbour Storm.  “Both teams this weekend have been solid defensively of late,“ said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “They play strong in all three zones so we have to work on getting some speed going through the neutral zone and coming up with a strong forecheck. If we do that, I am sure we will walk away with the four points”.  At the Halifax Civic Arena on Saturday, the Novas were down by two goals early in the game before Jacob Hudson converted the pass from Chase Ellis to get the Novas within one.  The Hawks restored the two goal lead soon afterwards, and the game entered the second with the Novas down 3-1.  Jack Morris (assisted by Logan Chisholm) and Malcolm MacEachern (assisted by Logan Timmons and Sean Stewart) knotted the game for the Novas in the second, but the Hawks again took the lead early in the third.  With time winding down in the third, and the home team trying mightily to hang on for the two points, the combination of Logan Timmons, Malcolm MacEachern and Sean Stewart tied the game with a little over a minute left, setting the stage for the unassisted overtime game winner by Jacob Hudson.  On Sunday at Cole Harbour Place, a fierce Harbour Storm pounded the Novas in a 3-2 loss.  Fearghus MacDonald and Malcolm MacEachern scored for the Novas with MacDonald, Calum MacPherson, Logan Timmons, and Lucas Fabijancic adding the assists.  Novas goaltender Colton Ellis split the goaltending chores with Kolby Baker on Saturday, and took the loss on Sunday. “We had some stretches on the weekend where we played great, and some stretches where we just couldn’t get anything to go right,” said Coach MacDonald.  “Again, some bad giveaways on our half of the ice went into the back of our net.  So we still some work to do, especially with playoffs right around the corner!”  The Novas play their final two regular season games at home next weekend - Saturday against the Pro Hockey Life Harbour Storm at 5 PM the Antigonish Arena, and Sunday at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre at 1:00 PM against the Landworks Gulls, two important games for Novas with playoffs in the NSMBHL starting in the third week of February.

Feb 2, 2015

Novas Sluggish In Battle For 1st Place

“We haven’t been paying our best hockey of late,“ said coach Kyle MacDonald.  “We knew this weekend is important especially with the way the Whalers have been playing all year. We have to get on them early, and try to establish our game. That’s the way we will have success against them.”  Unfortunately, the offence seemed to elude the Nova Bantams this weekend, only managing three goals in two games.  At the Antigonish Arena on Saturday, the Nova Majors fell behind the Whalers early and couldn’t find the back of the net against the stingy Dartmouth netminding, with the game ending in a 3-0 defeat.  On Sunday in East Hants, the Novas broke the ice in the second when Jacob Hudson found the back of the net on the power play assisted by Jack Morris and Stephen Fox.  Logan Timmons added a second power play marker midway through the third (assisted by Fearghus MacDonald and Logan Chisholm), while Fox rounded out the scoring a few minutes later with another power play goal assisted again by Morris.  The Senators pressed hard in the late stages of the game but could only manage one goal as Colton Ellis stood tall and preserved the 3-1 victory.  “We certainly didn’t have our best weekend”, commented Coach MacDonald.  “I felt that as a team, we have to learn how to tighten some things up when our offence isn’t working. Good thing our power play was clicking on Sunday!”  The Nova Bantams return to league action in two weeks with a road game against the ACCEL Hawks and finish the season in their home rinks the following weekend.

Jan 19, 2015

Novas Earn Four Points On Weekend To Keep Pace With Whalers

The Nova Major Bantams were back in action this past weekend with a home and an away game against the Valley Wildcats and the JonelJim Cougars.  “We didn’t start the second half of the year on the best note - I didn't think we played our best hockey against Bedford or Truro last weekend.  We weren’t sharp and they really showed us what it means to hustle for the puck and play as a team,” said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “Hopefully, this weekend the effort level will improve and we can come out with four big points.”  On Saturday afternoon at the Antigonish Arena, the Novas played the Valley Wildcats and came away with a 4-1 victory.  Jacob Hudson lead the attack with a goal and an assist,  with Fearghus MacDonald, Logan Chisholm, and Blair Fraser adding single markers.  In the assists category, Stephen Fox and Liam Mackinnon lead the way with two assists each, with Calum MacPherson and Grant Mason posting the final helpers.  Colton Ellis was solid in nets for the win.  At the Emera Centre on North Sydney on Sunday morning, the Novas took on the surging JonelJim Cougars and came away with an exciting 2-1 victory!   Sean Stewart paced the Novas attack with a goal and an assist, with Logan Timmons providing the only other Nova goal.  Calum MacPherson, Fearghus MacDonald, and Jacob Hudson added the remaining helpers.  Colton Ellis picked up his league leading 18th win in nets!  “We had a better effort overall this weekend,” said Coach MacDonald.  “We still had a few lapses but we were able to hold off two very gritty teams and come out with the four points.”  On Saturday January 17th, the Novas entertain the league leading Dartmouth Whalers with the  puck drop slated for 5 PM at the Antigonish Arena.  “This is great hockey for this age category and indeed in any age category,” said Team President Shane MacIsaac.  “We have been getting great crowds at the Arena and I can guarantee that this weekend, hockey fans in the region will be treated to a beauty of a game!  We hope to see you there.”

Jan 12, 2015

Hudson Named NSMBHL Player of The Week

On the basis of his performance of four (4) goals and one (1) assist in two games this past weekend, the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League has awarded Jacob Hudson the Player of the Week Honour.

http://nsmbhl.goalline.ca/news.php?news_id=1066476

Dec 24, 2014

Christmas Home Stand

The Nova Bantams were back in action this weekend with a pair of home games looking to maintain their position near the top of the NSMBHL standings.  “The last couple of weeks, we had some difficulty in keeping our focus at key points in the games, and that proved costly on a couple of occasions,” said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “We talked about this a lot the past two weeks.  We know that if we are too anxious we can take some costly bad penalties, and make a lot of poor decisions with and without the puck.  We have to try to correct that if we want to maintain a high level of play!”  At the Antigonish Arena on Saturday, the Novas got on the board early when Jacob Hudson scored his first of three in the game with the assist going to Fearghus MacDonald.  The Barons knotted the game quickly afterwards and the game remained tied at one until late in the first when Hudson notched his second of the game assisted by Calum  MacPherson.  The second period saw both team have a lot of great chances with the Novas Colton Ellis standing tall and shutting the door to preserve the slim one-goal margin!  The Barons scored two quick goals early in the third to take a 3-2 lead, when Hudson potted his hat-trick goal from Calum MacPherson and Ryan MacLellan to knot the game at three.  From there, the Novas didn’t look back as Fearghus MacDonald (assisted by MacLellan), Lucas Fabijancic (assisted by Hudson and MacPherson), and Ryan MacLellan (assisted by Jacob Stewart) salted away the victory!  On Sunday afternoon at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, the visiting Newbridge Senators jumped into a short-lived 1-0 before Logan Chisholm tied the game at 1 assisted by Chase Ellis and Lucas Fabijancic.  Again on Sunday, a scoreless, fast-paced second resulted in a lot of great scoring opportunities and some timely saves from the Senators goaltender and the Novas Colton Ellis to preserve the tie.  The game remained deadlocked until late in the third when Liam MacKinnon broke the tie assisted by Calum MacPherson and Fearghus MacDonald.  Logan Timmons (assisted by Sean Stewart) and Jacob Hudson (assisted by Colton Ellis) fired empty net goals to seal the 4-1 victory against the always tough Senators squad.  “This weekend was one where we wanted to get those last two victories before the Christmas Break, and I thought we were very sharp against two very good teams,” commented Coach MacDonald.  “We have had a good first half of the season though, and the boys will enjoy the Christmas break; they have worked hard and have really shown that we are competitive with the top teams in this league.  I am excited for the second half to begin in the New Year.”  The Novas next see action in the New Year on the road against the Bedford Barons and the Truro Bearcats; they return to the Antigonish Arena on January 10, 2015 for a matchup against the Kings Mutual Wildcats.  

Dec 22, 2014

Novas Named to Showcase 2014 Roster

Nova team members Colten Ellis, Logan Timmons, Ryan Maclellan and Jacob Hudson have been named to the Team North roster for Showcase 2014. Showcase 2014 will take place in Truro on December 27. Gametime is currently scheduled for 4:00PM at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre.

Dec 19, 2014

Novas Continue Their Strong Play At Home & On The Road

The Nova Major Bantams were back in action this weekend with a home game against the Landworks Gulls at the Antigonish Arena and a road game against the Pictou County Crushers.  “Overall, we have been playing well as a team the past few weekends,” said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “Over the past month, we learned that as a team we have to stay disciplined in order to be successful.  This weekend will be a good test to see how far we have progressed, as we have to do our best against two very scrappy teams if we want to maintain our position in the standings.”  

 

On Saturday, the Novas and Gulls traded chances through much of the first period until Logan Chisholm broke the game open with an unassisted shorthanded tally with 40 seconds to go in the first period.  The Novas built on that in the second with goals by Calum MacPherson and Jacob Hudson.  Stephen Fox scored early in the third to build a 4-0 lead for the Novas before the Gulls potted their first.  From there it was basically all Novas as both Logan Chisholm and Jacob Hudson each netted their second of the game, with Logan Timmons adding a pair of markers as well.  Hudson and MacPherson chipped in with an assist each; Ryan MacLellan and Fearghus MacDonald added a pair of helpers, and Lucas Fabijancic rounded out the scoring with an assist.  Colton Ellis was strong in nets for the victory.

 

On Sunday, the Nova Bantams faced the Crushers at the Pictou County Wellness Centre and came away with a 4-3 victory.  Logan Timmons and Jacob Stewart lead the way with multi-point games for the Novas with Timmons contributing two goals and an assist and Stewart a goal and an assist. Calum MacPherson scored the final Nova’s goal and Stephen Fox, Jacob Hudson, Malcolm MacEachern, and Sean Stewart added single helpers.  Kolby Baker picked up the win in Sunday’s game.  “On Sunday, we seemed to be a bit snakebitten,” said coach MacDonald.   “We had a lot of chances early, and they didn’t go in, but we were able to dig down and get the W!  On Saturday, everything seemed to be clicking!  What Sunday showed the coaching staff is that we are learning how to play through the tough spots where the pucks aren’t bouncing your way!”  The Nova Bantams are in their home rinks for a pair of games this weekend - on Saturday evening at 5 PM, they face off against the Bedford Barons at the Antigonish Arena, and on Sunday afternoon they entertain the Newbridge Senators at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre at 1 PM.



Dec 15, 2014

Novas Split Their Weekend In Liverpool

The Nova Major Bantams were back on the road this weekend with a pair of games at against the Western Hurricanes.  “We have been playing well as a team the past few weekends,” said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “We saw the Hurricanes recently, and although we had a good they are not a team to take lightly. We have to stay disciplined and stick to our game plans in order to be successful.”  

 

On Saturday in Liverpool, the Hurricanes broke open the scoring with 5 seconds to go in the first notching a shorthanded marker to take a 1-0 lead in the game.  Two more power play goals early in the third by the Hurricanes built them a comfortable 3-0 lead!  Despite a valiant comeback attempt late in the third, the Novas were handed only their third regulation loss of the season dropping a 4-3 decision to the ‘Canes. Logan Timmons, Logan Chisholm, and Liam MacKinnon scored for the Novas; assists were credited to Stephen Fox, Fearghus MacDonald, and Ryan MacLellan.  Kolby Baker took the loss in the cage on Saturday.  On Sunday, the Nova Major squad avenged Saturday’s defeat with a 4-0 victory.  Logan Chisholm and Malcolm MacEachern each had a goal and an assist for the Novas.  Fearghus MacDonald and Jacob Stewart rounded out scoring in the the goals department, while Chase Ellis, Sean Stewart, and Loan Timmons added single helpers. Colton Ellis recorded the victory in nets in Sunday’s contest.  “This weekend we wanted to get four points to maintain our positioning near the top of the standings,”offered Coach MacDonald.  “Instead, it was a lesson learned - you can’t take a single game off in this league or it will hurt you!  In particular, our special teams seem to fall asleep this weekend, so that is something we will have to address in the coming weeks”  The Novas entertain the Landworks Gulls at home on Saturday and play a road game against the Scotsburn Crushers on Sunday in Stellarton at the Pictou County Wellness Centre.  Puck drop for the home half of the weekend is slated for Saturday evening at 5 PM at the Antigonish Arena.



Dec 8, 2014

Novas Continue To Roll

The Nova Major Bantams were back in action this past weekend after winning the ESSO Atlantic Major Bantam Hockey Tournament in Halifax the previous weekend.  “We have been playing so much better of late, and the boys were obviously up for the challenge of facing the top teams in the Atlantic Region”, said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “We gave the boys the day off on Tuesday to let them rest up a bit, but we warned them that it’s back to business.  We have to make sure we continue to build and improve as a team, as there isn’t a single easy game in this league!”  The Nova Bantams seemed reenergized and razor sharp on Saturday evening as they thumped the Western Hurricanes 7-3 at the Antigonish Arena.   Logan Timmons fired a hat trick to lead the way for the Novas, with Fearghus MacDonald, Logan Chisholm, Jacob Hudson, and Malcolm McEachern adding singles.  MacDonald, Chisholm, and Hudson also chipped in with an assist each, while Darren Waterman, Lucas Fabijancic, Ryan MacLellan and Jack Morris provided single helpers.  Colby Baker posted the win in nets on Saturday.  In Sunday’s game, the Novas scratched out a tough 3-2 shootout victory against the pesky ACCEL Halifax Hawks. Leading the charge for the Novas were Stephen Fox with a couple of assists; Logan Timmons and Malcolm MacEachern each had a goal and an assist, and Logan Chisholm rounded out the scoring with an assist.  Timmons also notched the shootout winner.  Colton Ellis picked up the win in the pipes on Sunday.  “I was pleased with the way we played on Saturday,” said Coach MacDonald. “On Sunday, the Hawks battled us hard, and we didn’t respond the way I would have liked!  Some things we still have to improve upon, and we are getting there”  The Novas go back on the road this weekend with a pair of away games against the Western Hurricanes; they return to their home rinks the following weekend with games against the Bedford Barons on Saturday, December 13 at the Antigonish Arena, and the Newbridge Senators on Sunday, December 14 at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre.

Dec 1, 2014

2014 Esso Tournament Champions

The Nova Major Bantams took part in the ESSO Atlantic Major Bantam Hockey Tournament in Halifax this past weekend, posting a 3-0-1 record in the round robin portion.  “We have been playing well of late,” said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “Two weekends ago at the Irving tournament, we kind of hit a wall in the playoff round. We talked about focus and being prepared for this tournament the past two weeks.  I thought going in the team was up to the challenge of facing the top teams in the Atlantic Region!”  On Thursday morning, the Nova Bantams battled the Western Hurricanes from the Nova Scotia Major Bantam League and came away with a 6-1 triumph, while the Friday matchups saw the Nova Bantams defeat the Dieppe Flyers from the New Brunswick Bantam league 4-2 and play the Newbridge Senators to a 3-3 draw.  Saturday morning, the Novas took on the Landworks gulls from the Nova Scotia League and came away with a 4-2 victory.  At the end of the round robin, the Novas were on top of the standings in the Refining Division, and faced the Bedford Barons of the Nova Scotia league in a Saturday afternoon quarterfinal matchup.  The Novas battled their league opponents hard and advanced to the semi-final round with a 3-2 victory and a date with the tough Moncton Hawks of the New Brunswick league on Sunday morning.  A 5-1 victory against the Hawks set the stage for a thrilling championship game against the Dartmouth Whalers of the Nova Scotia League, in which the Novas prevailed in a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory to take home the 2014 Esso Atlantic Banner!  Logan Timmons was named tournament MVP and Colton Ellis was named the top goaltender.  “This was a great weekend for this team,” said head coach Kyle macDonald.  “We are working hard, learning lessons from all our games, and the coaching staff is pleased with the way this team has come together.  It’s great hockey to watch and I invite everyone to come out and see the kind of hockey being played in this league.”  The Nova Bantams return to league action this coming weekend with a pair of home games against the Western Hurricanes and the ACCEL Hawks.  Puck drop is slated for 5 PM at the Antigonish Arena on November 29th and at 11 AM at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Center on November 30th.

Nov 23, 2014

The Novas Ride Out The Storm To A Solid Win

For the first time in a very long time, the Nova Major Bantams were back at home for a Saturday afternoon contest against the Pro Hockey Life Harbour Storm, after a tough KV Irving tournament finish the previous weekend in Saint John New Brunswick.  “We were flying high after the round robin, but we ran out of gas in the playoff round, it was as simple as that!”  commented head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “It was a learning experience for a lot of the boys - it’s three days of intense competition, and you have to learn how to pace yourself both mentally and physically - something we will work on and talk about as the season rolls along”.  At the Antigonish Arena on Saturday afternoon, the Nova Bantams showed no signs of neither mental nor physical fatigue as they cruised to a 7-1 victory against the Harbour Storm.  Logan Timmons opened the scoring early in the first with a power play marker from Ryan MacLellan.  The score remained at 1-0 until Fearghus MacDonald stepped out of the penalty box and scored a beautiful unassisted marker in the last minute of the first to widen the lead to 2-0.  The Novas fired three more goals in the second as Stephen Fox, Timmons, and MacDonald found the back of the cage, with Logan Chisholm, Chase Ellis, Jack Morris, and Ryan MacLellan providing the helpers.  Fox would add another power play marker in the third assisted by Lucas Fabijancic; Ryan MacLellan rounded out the Nova’s scoring assisted by Darren Waterman late in the third.  Colton Ellis picked up the win in nets.  “Over the past four weeks, we have really come together as a team.  We are playing with confidence in all three zones,and making a lot of good decisions with and without the puck” said Coach MacDonald.  “We are pleased with the way we are playing overall, but we know there is always room for improvement.” The Nova Juniors will be back on the road again competing in the ESSO Atlantic Major Bantam Tournament in Halifax from November 20-23, 2014.  The Nova Bantams X-Men return to league action the following weekend with a pair of home games against the Western Hurricanes and the ACCEL Hawks.  Puck drop is slated for 5 PM at the Antigonish Arena on November 29th and at 11 AM at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Center on November 30th.

Nov 17, 2014

Novas Earn Four Tough Points

The Nova Major Bantams, having grabbed 4 points the previous weekend, were looking to make it another 4 point weekend and solidify their hold atop the standings in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League.  “Last weekend was a good weekend for the guys - we worked on a few more things that should help us down the road, talked about maintaining momentum and the importance of controlling the puck within the game,” said head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “We have been on a pretty good run since the start of the season; this means your opponents will dig down a little deeper, and we have to be ready for that.”  On Saturday evening at the Emera Centre in North Sydney, the Nova Juniors battled the JonelJim Cougars to a 3-2 shootout victory.  Fearghus MacDonald and Logan Timmons scored for the Novas; Liam MacKinnon netted two assists, while Lucas Fabijancic and Stephen Fox added single helpers.  MacDonald also potted the winner in the shootout.  On Sunday afternoon, the Nova Bantams traveled to the Rath Eastlink Community Centre in Truro for a match against the Truro Bearcats, and skated away with a 5-1 victory.  Logan Chisholm paced the Nova’s attack with a goal and two assists.  Fearghus MacDonald and Stephen Fox each had a goal and an assist.  Chase Ellis and Calum MacPherson added a goal apiece; Jack Morris, Logan Timmon, Ryan MacLellan, Malcolm Maceachern, and John Brophy rounded out the scoring with an assist each.  “Last weekend when the boys grabbed the four points - it was a great confidence booster but the coaching staff thought we still weren’t playing our best hockey,” said Coach MacDonald.  “This weekend we learned a valuable lesson about teamwork and systems - we managed the puck a lot better on Sunday and it really showed on the scoresheet!  The boys recognize that we need to keep improving in certain key areas to stay near the top of this league; they are showing the commitment to do just that!”  The Nova Bantams next see league on with a home game on November 15;  the puck drops against the Pro Hockey Life Harbour Storm at 5 PM at the Antigonish Arena.



Nov 3, 2014

Another Weekend Split

The Nova Major Bantams were back on the ice after the Thanksgiving break looking to take four points on the weekend to maintain their position in the 2014-15 Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League Standings.  “We know going into this weekend, we have to be on top of our game in all areas of the ice,” said head coach Kyle MacDonald. “The boys have been working hard to shore up our neutral zone play, and cut down on the number of times we turn the puck over.  We have been steadily improving our play on the defensive side of the puck every game.  I really feel that our team is coming together well and the coaching staff is looking forward to a couple of strong games this weekend!”  In a Saturday evening tilt at the Antigonish Arena, the boisterous crowd was treated to a real beauty as the Novas and the Bedford Barons put on a display of skill and teamwork with the home squad finally prevailing in a 4-3 shootout decision.  Malcolm MacEachern and Jacob Hudson spotted the home squad a 2-0 first period lead with the assists going to Logan Timmons and Liam MacKinnon, but the Barons roared back early in the second to knot the game at 2.  Some sparkling goaltending by the Novas Colton Ellis ensured the game remained deadlocked at 2 until the third when Chase Ellis finished off a beautiful rush to put the Novas ahead by one on a slick pass from Jacob Hudson.  The Barons squared the game at 3 near the 11 minute mark of the third with neither the the rest of the third nor the five minute OT solving anything!  Hudson and Timmons both scored in the shootout to grab the extra point for an exciting 4-3 Novas win.  Unfortunately, on Sunday, the Novas couldn’t muster that same effort and dropped a 4-1 decision to the Landworks Gulls.  Jacob Hudson scored the only goal for the Novas assisted by Logan Timmons and Malcolm MacEachern.  Kolby Baker played a very strong game for the Novas on Sunday making a number of highlight reel saves in stopping 30 of the 33 he faced.  “We had a strange weekend,” said Coach MacDonald.  “We were excited to play the Barons on Saturday and I thought we played one of our best games of the year against a well-coached, big, and skilled team.  Then we came out flat on Sunday.  I was hoping we would have had some more jump on Sunday but it happens and we just have to learn how to deal with it”  The Novas spend the next two weekend on the road and next see action at home when they face the Pro Hockey Life Harbour Storm at the Antigonish Arena on November 15.



Oct 20, 2014

Atlantic Challenge Cup

Nova team members (L-R) Jacob Hudson (U-15), Logan Timmons (U-15), Colten Ellis (U-15), Ryan MacLellan (U-15), Jake Stewart (U-14) & Sean Stewart (U-14) were recent members of teams representing Nova Scotia at the Atlantic Challenge Cup. Both the Under-15 & Under-14 teams were successful in capturing the tournament championship.  The Novas congratulate the boys in their successful representation of both the Province and the Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team.

Oct 15, 2014

Novas Name Assistants To Compliment MacPherson

The Novas recently named their choise for team Assistant Captains.  Head Coach Kyle MacDonald comments on the teams selections:

Ryan MacLellan is this year’s leader among our back end. He is premier defensemen in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League and he does it without ego. He makes guys want to be better players and makes you want to be a better person. That’s just the type of guy he is.
 
The contribution that Logan Timmons has made to the team this season has been invaluable. Aside from his obvious talents, he has a work ethic like no other. The entire team can learn a lot about hard work from Logan.
 
Fearghus MacDonald always carries himself in a professional manner. He is a well-spoken, and mature young man. He is a pleasure to be around, and you can count on Fearghus to bring positive energy to the rink each day. 
 

Oct 7, 2014

Consistency Will Lead To Success

The Nova Bantams began the fifth week in the NSMBHL in a battle with the Dartmouth Whalers and the Pro Hockey Life Harbour Storm for league supremacy. “Going into this weekend, we knew we had to step it up a bit, and play better as a team,” offered head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “So this week we spent some more time on our neutral zone play, and worked on our special teams. It’s those little things that can make all the difference between a win and a loss, and hopefully this weekend, all this work will grab us four big points,” said coach MacDonald.  On Saturday afternoon at the Antigonish Arena against the Scotsburn Crushers, the Novas carried the play for a good portion of the game but some game-stealing saves from the Crushers goalie combined with shot-blocking heroics of the Crushers players throughout the game saw them come out on the wrong end of a 3-2 score.  Darren Waterman and Jacob Hudson scored for the Novas; Logan Timmons notched a pair of assists with Ryan MacLellan and Stephen Fox rounding out the assist count.  Kolby Baker and Colton Ellis shared the goaltending duties on Saturday and were both solid in the loss.  On Sunday morning, at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, the Novas got behind the visiting Joneljim Cougars early but roared back with three unanswered goals to seal a 3-1 victory. Ryan MacLellan, Logan Timmons, and Logan Chisholm each had a goal, with Fearghus MacDonald , Malcolm MacEachern, Jacob Hudson, and Stephen Fox adding helpers.  Colton Ellis made a number of great saves to pick up the win in Sunday’s game.  “All in all, there were some good lessons this weekend that we hope the boys take to heart,” said Coach MacDonald.  “They played a solid game on Saturday, but came up short against a determined team and goaltender.  On Sunday, we could have easily folded the tent but they dug down deep and grabbed the two points.  Our effort level actually was very consistent this entire weekend and the coaching staff is really pleased with the way the boys are playing as a team.”  The Novas next see home action on October 18th when they take on the Bedford Barons at the Antigonish Arena; puck drop is slated for 5 PM.

Oct 6, 2014

Novas Split Weekend With The Whalers

This weekend, the two remaining unbeaten teams in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey league squared off against each other in a battle for 1st place and bragging rights for early season supremacy. “The Dartmouth Whalers are a very good hockey team,”  head coach Kyle MacDonald offered.  “We have been working hard trying to focus on those little things that can mean the difference between a win and a loss, especially when you are playing such a complete team!  It’s coming together, the coaching staff can feel it, and this weekend will be a great test.”   On Saturday at the Dartmouth Sportsplex, a blistering-paced first period didn’t result in a single puck getting past either netminder and the game remained scoreless until early in the second when Malcolm MacEachern combined with Logan Timmons to put the Novas in front.  The Whalers replied with two quick goals but the Novas roared back on the power play with Jacob Hudson potting the tying goal, also assisted by Logan Timmons.  The Whalers inched ahead for good early in the third despite the relentless Novas’ attack late in the game.  Colton Ellis took the loss in Saturday’s contest.  On Sunday morning, again in the inhospitable confines of the Sportsplex, the Novas showed why they are a team to be reckoned with this season, weathering a massive first period onslaught by the Whalers, eventually coming out on the right side of a 4-3 score.  Logan Timmons paced the attack with a hat trick; Ryan MacLellan notched the other goal for the Novas on the power play and chipped in with an assist.  Malcolm Maceachern added a pair of helpers, and Sean Stewart and Logan Chisholm each had an assist to round out the scoring.  Colton Ellis also handled the goaltending chores for Sunday’s game.  “It was a wild weekend for the guys - coming into the weekend, we knew that we had to be real sharp, and getting the split in the opposition’s barn is huge,” said Coach MacDonald.  “We found out why this team is near the top of the league. They play hard in all areas of the ice, and they are fast and skilled.  The boys played them tough all weekend and a couple of bounces may have enabled us to come out with four points.  It was a great effort and we know we are going to need efforts like that each end every weekend if we want to be near the top of this league”  The Novas are back in the friendly confines of their home rinks this weekend, taking on the Scotsburn Crushers on Saturday October 4, at 5:00 PM at the Antigonish Arena, and on Sunday, they square off against the Breton Cougars at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre at 11:00 AM.

Sep 29, 2014

Chisholm Named NSMBHL Player of The Week

Logan helped his team to 2 wins this past weekend with one goal and six assists in games against the ACCEL Hawks and Truro Bearcats. "Shifty" is a 1st year Major Bantam Player and a rookie in the league. Logan hails from Antigonish and is quickly making his mark as a team leader with the Nova's this season both on and off the ice.

Sep 24, 2014

Special Teams a Key To Novas Early Success

The Nova Bantams rolled into the second week of the 2014-15 season looking to build on their impressive 2-0 start.  “We are looking to right a few of the mistakes from the first weekend of the season,” head coach Kyle MacDonald offered.  “We have been taking some bad penalties, so we have to keep our cool and stay out of the box.  We also know that in this league you can live or die by your special teams, so we have focused on our special teams this week.  It’s early in the season, and our coaching staff is really positive about the team”.  On Saturday at the Antigonish Arena against the Truro Bearcats, the Novas got behind the 8 ball in the first even though they carried the majority of the play throughout the first and the second.  It wasn’t until the third period when the Novas’ Logan Chisholm and Logan Timmons got them on the board with a pair of goals in quick succession.  The Novas increased the lead midway through the third when Stephen Fox potted an insurance marker off the stick of Logan Chisholm.  Jack Morris chipped in with a pair of assists and Fearghus MacDonald rounded out the scoring with a single helper.  Kolby Baker made several key saves late in the game to help seal a 3-2 victory.  On Sunday morning at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, the Novas scored two first period goals and never let off the gas enroute to a 7-1 victory against the ACCEL Halifax Hawks.  Jacob Stewart paced the attack with a hat trick, while Calum MacPherson notched a pair of goals and Logan Timmons and Malcolm MacEachern each added singles.  Logan Chisholm had a huge game adding 5 helpers to his early season point total; Calum MacPherson added a couple of assists to go with his two goals.  Jack Morris and Stephen Fox also had two assists and Sean Stewart rounded out the scoring with an assist.  Colton Ellis handled the goaltending chores for Sunday’s contest.  “We found out on Sunday that if we focus on doing little things properly, the scoreboard will take care of itself”, said Coach MacDonald.  “We cut down on the turnovers really concentrated on playing well in the neutral zone, and we seemed to be able to generate a lot of good things from that strong neutral zone play.  It’s exciting to see how the boys are progressing!”  The Novas next see action in the HRM on September 27th and 28th with a pair of games against the Dartmouth Whalers.  The Novas don’t see home ice again until October 4th when they play the Scotsburn Crushers at the Antigonish Arena.



Sep 22, 2014

Novas Name MacPherson as Captain


The Novas of the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League announced last evening that Calum MacPherson will be their team captain for the 2014-2015 season. Calum, a second year bantam player and veteran of the Major Bantam Hockey program is from Antigonish and the son of Bruce & Erin MacPherson. Head Coach Kyle MacDonald commented on the selection of MacPherson as Captain, "Among our veteran group, we have some worthy future captains in our room making it a difficult decision for this year’s team. Although the other members all have important leadership qualities, one player’s character stood out the most to me. For opposing teams, he may not be known as a top scorer but it is tough to defend against someone with the amount of courage that he has. Calum has the type of leadership qualities that will enable him to make a great captain. In his first year with the team, I thought he was one of the quietest, and best leaders you could have because he simply went out on the ice, with no fanfare, and got the job done. For amount of time I coached him, I felt that being behind the bench and watching him compete on a regular basis, it was like, wow, what a great message to send to the rest of the guys. He has the ability to influence his teammates whether he knows it or not. When you have a player on your team that competes, and sacrifices himself the way he does, it pushes the rest of the guys to want to give more.  Off the ice, Calum carries himself in a respectful way, always showing the right amount of courtesy. What I know about Calum is that he exemplifies class, he’s a great teammate, and we are incredibly fortunate to have him as our captain. He truly deserves this."  

Sep 18, 2014

Novas Off To A Great Start

The Nova Major Bantams opened the 2014-15 Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League season this past weekend with a home and an away game.  At the Antigonish Arena on Saturday evening, the Nova Bantams faced off in their home opener against against the Newbridge Academy Senators, following a heartfelt tribute and a moment of silence for John “Nova” Chisholm, the naming sponsor of the club, who passed away during the past summer.  The Novas and the Senators battled throughout a scoreless first period until Logan Timmons got the home team on the board on a beautiful set up from Liam MacKinnon and Fearghus MacDonald.  The Senators took advantage of some Nova miscues in the neutral zone and evened the score soon afterwards, and the game remained knotted at 1 until Stephen Fox put the Novas ahead early in the third with the assist going to Jack Morris.  The game see-sawed throughout the remainder of the third when Logan Chisholm salted the victory with an empty net marker that made it across the line with a second to spare, much to the delight of the boisterous Arena crowd.  On Sunday afternoon at the Pictou County wellness Centre, the Novas grabbed an early 1-0 lead and went on to defeat the Crushers 5-0.  Logan Timmons had a three point game with 2 goals and a helper; Logan Chisholm, Jacob Stewart, and Stephen Fox each had a goal with the remaining helper coming off the stick Chase Ellis.   Colten Ellis put in solid efforts in both games to pick up his first two victories of the young season.  “This weekend was about coming together as a team,” said the Novas new head coach Kyle MacDonald.  “It’s a new season, with a lot of rookies, and some great second year players that can really lead this squad.  As with the beginning of every season, we made a few mental miscues mistakes and learned how to play a little better as a team.”  MacDonald says he favours the high tempo, entertaining style of hockey that was in abundance at the arena on Saturday afternoon. Team President Shane MacIsaac was delighted with the number of fans who showed up to watch the game at the arena .  “This really is showcase hockey for this age group - it’s fast, intense, and the players are skilled,” MacIsaac offered. “It’s great to see the league is growing its fan-base.  We have a lot of games at the Antigonish Arena this year, and I hope we will be able to see even more fans coming out to watch this league.  It really is great hockey”.  The Novas see action this weekend with a pair of home games: Saturday evening they face off against the Truro Bearcats at 5 PM at the Antigonish Arena, while on Sunday at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, the Novas take on the Halifax ACCEL Hawks at 11 AM.



Sep 15, 2014

Training Camp Schedule

  The Nova Major Bantam Hockey Team have announced the dates for their 2014-2015 Training Camp & Tryouts for the upcoming season.  Training camp is open to all Bantam-aged players for the 2014-2015 hockey season that are members of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association or the Cape Breton West Minor Hockey Association.  For full details on all training camp sessions see the schedule on this website.

Stage I - $125.00
August 15 - August 26
(At the end of Stage I the roster will be reduced to approximately 19 players.)

Stage II - $100.00
August 26 - September 8

Training Camp Registration Form


Please complete the above registration form and return prior to your child participating in training camp.  Please attach (i) a cheque dated August 15th for $125.00 and (ii) a second cheque dated August 26th for $100.00 payable to the Nova X-Men Hockey Association.  Only players who move onto Stage II of tryouts will have the second cheque cashed.  Forms can be returned on Friday evening, August 15th at the registration table that will be available at the Keating Millennium Centre prior to the 1st session.


Jul 30, 2014

Novas Announce New Head Coach

“We were looking for a strong leader to coach our hockey team.  In Kyle MacDonald, we get an individual who knows the game and along with his experience as an assistant coach and player, makes him the right choice to lead our hockey team.  ”
A 26-year old native of Inverness, NS, Kyle MacDonald played 2 seasons in the MJHL with the Charlottetown Abbies and Miramichi Timberwolves before spending 4 seasons with the Waterloo Warriors of the OUAA.  He has served as an assistant coach for 2 years with the Nova Junior X-Men in 2011-2012 and 2013-2014.

Apr 14, 2014