CALEDONIA— Haldimand Rivercats Pee- Wee House League defenceman Nevayah Powless has a strong passion for playing hockey.
Following a strong performance on Sunday, January 5th in what was an 8-0 loss at the Haldimand County Caledonia Centre against the Flamborough Falcons 1, Powless replied, “It’s hard to explain. I feel like I was just meant to play hockey.”
Powless along with defense partner Kali Monture are just two of a handful of talented players from Six Nations who are playing and excelling for the Rivercats Pee-Wee House League team.
Haldimand Rivercats Nevayah Powless
“This is my first year playing,” Monture said. “I wanted to try something different and it’s good.”
Reflecting on what her team did well against Flamborough, Monture was quick to respond, “We skated a lot. And had good passes.”
Echoing those same thoughts was Powless who commented, “We passed more than usual.” In terms of what they still need to work on Powless replied, “Communication.”
The Rivercats were getting stellar goaltending but couldn’t prevent Flamborough from exploding with five first period goals in taking a 5-0 lead heading to the second.
Despite not scoring, Haldimand had some strong performances including the defensive duel of Powless and Monture.
“Nevayah’s ability to read the play is phenomenal,” Rivercats coach Katie Gorman said. “She sees the play develop and can take control.”
Meanwhile playing like a seasoned veteran was Monture who had some solid defensive plays.
“Kali’s made a huge improvement,” Gorman said. “She’s reading the play well and gaining confidence.”
Haldimand got some early chances in the second as Davis just missed before Flamborough responded with consecutive goals as they went on to celebrate a victory.
Despite not getting a win, the Rivercats came off the ice full of smiles including Powless who has some ambitious long- term hockey goals.
“I want to play hockey at high school and college,” she said.