Cape Breton Eagles Introduce Historic Moment: Rhyah Stewart to Play in Friday’s Game Against the Moncton Wildcats
The Cape Breton Eagles are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking moment in franchise history as Rhyah Stewart, a remarkably talented young goaltender, is set to take the ice in Friday’s preseason game against the Moncton Wildcats. Stewart’s inclusion on the roster marks a significant milestone, as she becomes the first female player ever to represent the Cape Breton Eagles.
As the first female player to don the Cape Breton Eagles’ jersey, Stewart’s journey is not only a testament to her exceptional skills but also a powerful step towards breaking down barriers in the sport.
“The QMJHL promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion,” says General Manager Sylvain Couturier. “But she’s not her because she’s a female, she’s in the lineup because she deserves it and we’re excited to see what she can bring to our team.”
Rhyah Stewart, a native of Antigonish, Nova Scotia, has demonstrated her prowess both on and off the ice. With a remarkable track record in her hockey career, Stewart’s achievements include leading Team Nova Scotia to its first-ever Female Hockey medal at the Canada Games in 2023, playing for Canada’s National Women’s Under-18 Team series versus the United States in Lake Placid, NY, in which she was the winning goaltender in her lone appearance in the series, to playing for the Cape Breton West Islanders in 2022-23 where she posted a 3.67 GAA and .899 SAV% in 21 games played.
“After what I saw the last two days of practice, she has earned her spot in Friday’s lineup,” says Head Coach Louis Robitaille. “She’s an excellent goaltender and I believe she will have a significant impact for our team on the ice.”
The Cape Breton Eagles’ coaching staff and players have welcomed Stewart with open arms, embracing her as a fellow teammate united by their shared passion for hockey. The team’s commitment to providing an inclusive and supportive environment has laid the foundation for this historic moment.
The game on Friday against the Moncton Wildcats is expected to draw considerable attention from fans, media, and the broader hockey community. It’s an occasion to celebrate the achievements of athletes like Rhyah Stewart and recognize the strides being made towards a more inclusive and diverse future in sports.
The Eagles invite everyone to join in celebrating this monumental moment vs the Wildcats. Puck drops at 7:00 PM on Friday, August 25th at the Centre 200, and tickets are only $10, and free for season ticket holders. Tickets are available for purchase through https://www.ticketmaster.ca/cape-breton-eagles-tickets/artist/891825 or by calling/visiting the Centre 200 Box Office at 902-564-2200.
Due to the anticipated crowd for Friday’s game, we encourage everyone wishing to attend to purchase their tickets online or come early to avoid any possible delays in buying your tickets.