Longtime Miner Nolette makes plans with NAHL’s Rebels
After five years with the Pikes Peak Miners AAA organization, J.P. Nolette says it’s time to move on.
Last month, the 18U forward signed a tender agreement with the Aston Rebels of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) and looks at beginning his junior hockey career next fall.
“I had been talking to Aston for quite some time, even leading into this season,” explained Nolette. “Their scout, John Holt, whose son plays Pee Wee with my cousin, Gordy Hunt, in Ohio, has really helped the process. After talking to him and then the director of scouting, Rocky Russo, I had been able to strengthen my game enough to get their full attention.”
Nolette missed half of the 2015-16 season with a broken femur and a torn MCL, but credits the Miners organization for helping him get to this point in his career.
“I am the only local kid to have played in the CSAHA/Miners organization my whole life and I hope to be showing the younger kids coming up in the program how great it is to be a Miner,” boasted Nolette. “It has meant everything for my career and development playing for the Miners. My 16U years were a great learning experience with Luc Trombetta. He taught me how to really be a student of the game and how good character will get you a long way. Now playing for the 18s with Greg Vanover, he has really allowed me to develop even more as a player, but also as a person. He has taught me how to be a good contributor to the hockey world, both on and off the ice.”
And while an NAHL tender doesn’t guarantee a roster spot, Nolette plans on skating and staying in shape over the summer. Aston could also help with larger goals for Nolette.
“I want to play Division I hockey and maybe pursue a professional career if all goes to plan,” said Nolette. “I am not completely sure on what I want to do when my hockey career is over, but I aspire to be a business lawyer.”
Photo/Anne Hanson
— Matt Mackinder