Maine defenseman Philpott makes NCAA commitment

The Maine Nordiques of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that defenseman James Philpott has committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for Hamilton College.

Philpott, 21, was one of the Nordiques captains this past season and was the first-round pick for the Nordiques in the 2020 NAHL draft. The 6’1/170 lbs. native of Calgary, AB, was the Nordiques leading point getter by a defenseman, racking up 6 goals and 21 assists for 27 points, which was tied for 5th best on the team during the 2020-21 season.

Philpott was named the NAHL Defenseman of the Month for October 2020 as he recorded eight points in nine games during the month as the Nordiques put together a 7-2-0 record.

“James was a key part to the Nordiques success this season as his stellar defense earned him a lot of ice time and a player that we relied on when it came down to crunch time. James came into the season as we were looking to bolster our defense and he proved what he could do from Day 1,” said Maine head coach Nolan Howe.

Prior to playing in the NAHL and earning his NCAA commitment, Philpott played Junior A hockey in Canada is three different leagues.

Click here for an updated NAHL to NCAA commitment list