Gwyneth Philips’ First Game Sets the Stage for a Promising Career

Gwyneth Philips’ PWHL debut on Dec. 19 may have ended in a 5-2 loss for the Ottawa Charge against the Minnesota Frost, but her performance between the pipes turned heads across the league. The rookie goaltender set a PWHL record for the most saves in a debut with 35 stops, showcasing her talent and earning high praise from her coach, Carla McLeod.

Nothing but love for OUR rookie netminder. 😍

Quick appreciation post for Gwyneth Philips, who stopped 35 of 39 shots in her PWHL debut against Minnesota on Thursday night. pic.twitter.com/vqMcNUA5Na

— Ottawa Charge (@PWHL_Ottawa) December 22, 2024

McLeod reflected on Philips’ performance with enthusiasm, highlighting her impact in the game and potential for a bright future.

“She played incredibly well and gave us an opportunity to be successful in that game,” McLeod told The Ice Garden. “I was happy for Gwyneth, for sure, to get her first start in this league. She’s going to prove pretty quickly here that she’s going to have a long career in this league.”

McLeod also emphasized the strength of the Charge’s goaltending trio, which includes veteran Emerance Maschmeyer and Logan Angers.

“You can see it in practice. They’re pushing each other every day, and they’re pushing to make us better goal scorers, too,” McLeod added.

Philips’ journey to the PWHL began at Northeastern University, where she gained valuable experience despite spending three years as a backup before becoming a starter. That resilience prepared her for the pressures of professional hockey.

“My time at Northeastern was invaluable,” Philips said. “I know what it takes mentally and physically to step in after not playing for a while, and I think that gives me a leg up on a lot of other goalies.”

Off the ice, Philips finds balance through rock climbing and being outdoors
"I have a ton of hobbies" She said. "In the season, I go out and walk my dog; that's kind of a mental reset."

Philips herself spoke about learning from Maschmeyer, a veteran goalie who has been a valuable mentor. “Masch is a really fun goalie partner,” Philips said. “It’s great to have someone similar in stature to me, so I can see what works for her.”

Transitioning from college hockey to the professional level has been an adjustment for Philips. She noted the faster pace and higher quality of shots in the PWHL compared to her NCAA days.

“It’s a lot faster,” she said. “Shots are moving faster, more placement. This game felt a lot faster than the preseason game, probably because everyone’s more dialed in now. It was wicked fast.”

Philips’ record-setting debut highlighted her ability to rise to the occasion. Despite facing 39 shots from Minnesota’s high-powered offense, she kept Ottawa in the game and demonstrated her potential to be a cornerstone for the Charge’s future.