Just two days before the puck dropped for the Virden Oil Capitals’ 2022-2023 season, the team announced the signings of Naton Miler and Thomas Phillips.
The rookies’ signings were unveiled on Sept. 14. Two nights later they were in the lineup as the Oil Capitals opened the campaign with a 4-3 overtime victory against Waywayseecappo.
“It was very nerve racking,” Miller said. “After rookie camp I was listed with Virden and then in main camp, I got placed with a billet and had to earn my spot throughout exhibition season.”
Since cracking the roster, the young players have contributed and displayed potential for the future. Miller is an 18-year-old forward, while Phillips is a 17-year-old defenceman.
“Both Naton and Thomas have improved immensely throughout the season,” Oil Capitals head coach Tyson Ramsey said. “They are young guys that find themselves in and out of the lineup but have both worked real hard in practices and we can certainly see the development in both their games. … We are looking forward to seeing how both continue to develop the rest of the season and into next year.”
Both players joined the squad from the U18 AAA ranks. Lorette’s Phillips played for the Eastman Selects. Miller suited up in Saskatchewan for the Yorkton Maulers.
“I would say the biggest difference between Junior A and U18 AAA would be just the schedule,” Phillips said. “It’s a lot more intense playing more games and practicing every day along with all the bus trips. It’s a grind but it’s awesome.”
Naton Miller
The 6-foot-2, 180-poiund Miller has scored four goals through 34 games this season. He has seven assists.
“Naton is a big guy that can shoot the puck extremely well and is a very smart player,” Ramsey said.
That hockey IQ has helped him rise through the hockey ranks the last couple seasons. His mom is from Spy Hill and his dad hails from Redvers. Miller developed his game in the latter community’s minor hockey system and did not try out for AAA until he heard an advertisement on the radio. He only played at the U18 AAA level for his 17-year-old season and that was limited to 24 games due to an injury. He posted seven goals and 11 points.
Miller billets with Trevor and Megan Gabrielle and their offspring Rhys and Mikayla. He enjoys the community and fans and said the Oil Capitals are a great organization.
Thomas Phillips
Phillips is a 5-foot-11, 167-pound defenceman. He has two assists through 25 games this season.
“Thomas sees the ice really well and always makes a great first pass,” Ramsey said.
Phillips is having fun in his first MJHL season.
“I have really enjoyed the fan support we get. It’s a really tight community here and it is awesome to be a part of it - not to mention how loyal and awesome the fans are,” said Phillips, who billets with Doug and Kathi Gatey.
