OAK FOREST, IL - Let’s talk about Nate Maurin. The rookie. The brick wall. The 18-year-old goaltender from Harrison Township, Michigan, who just earned the USPHL Midwest Division Player of the Week honor. If you haven’t been paying attention to this young netminder, it’s time to start. Because what Maurin is doing between the pipes for the Chicago Cougars isn’t just impressive—it’s a statement. A statement that says, “I belong here.” And after this past week, it’s impossible to argue otherwise.
Maurin’s performance last week was nothing short of stellar. In two games, he posted a jaw-dropping 0.50 goals-against average (GAA) and a .971 save percentage. Let that sink in. A rookie goaltender, in his first season of Elite-level hockey, standing on his head and giving his team a chance to win every single night. Oh, and he also notched his first career shutout—a 20-save masterpiece that had Cougars fans on their feet and opposing forwards shaking their heads. But let’s break it down, because the numbers only tell part of the story.
The Shutout Heard ‘Round the Midwest
On January 14, 2025, Nate Maurin etched his name into the Cougars’ history books. Facing off against the Decatur Blaze, Maurin was a force of nature. Twenty shots came his way, and twenty shots were turned aside. Every glove save, every pad stack, every rebound controlled—it was a clinic in goaltending. The Blaze threw everything they had at him, but Maurin was dialed in, playing with the poise of a seasoned veteran rather than a rookie still finding his footing in the league.
The shutout wasn’t just a personal milestone for Maurin; it was a momentum-shifter for the Cougars. In a season where every point matters, Maurin’s performance was a reminder that this team has a backbone. And that backbone wears #50.
The Chicago Cougars Bounce-Back Kid
What makes Maurin’s story even more compelling is the resilience he’s shown this season. Hockey is a game of highs and lows, and for a goaltender, those swings can be brutal. Earlier in the year, Maurin had a few tough outings—like the December 9 game against the Metro Jets where he gave up eight goals on 47 shots. But here’s the thing about Nate: he doesn’t let those moments define him. Instead, he uses them as fuel.
Since that game, Maurin has been on a tear. In his last five starts, he’s posted a .939 save percentage, including that shutout against Decatur and a 46-save performance against the Chicago Crush. That’s the mark of a competitor. That’s the mark of a guy who’s not just here to play—he’s here to win.
By the Numbers
Let’s geek out on the stats for a second, because they’re worth celebrating. Through 14 games this season, Maurin is 7-6-0-0 with a 3.07 GAA and a .900 save percentage. For a rookie goaltender in the USPHL Elite division, those are rock-solid numbers. But dig deeper, and you’ll see the flashes of brilliance that make him special.
January 14, 2025: 20 saves, 1.000 SV%, first career shutout.
January 15, 2025: 19 saves on 20 shots, .950 SV%, another W.
Season Highs: 46 saves against the Crush (January 24), .971 SV% in a win against Fort Wayne (September 21).
Maurin isn’t just stopping pucks; he’s stealing games. And in a league as competitive as the USPHL, that’s the kind of goaltending that can carry a team deep into the playoffs.
A Word from the Coach
When asked about Maurin’s recent accolade, Cougars Head Coach Anthony Rohde had this to say, “Nate’s been a warrior for us all season,” Rohde said. “He’s a kid who comes to the rink every day ready to work, ready to learn, and ready to compete. This honor is well-deserved, but knowing Nate, he’s already focused on the next game. That’s what makes him special—he’s never satisfied. He’s always looking to get better, and that mindset is contagious.”
Rohde’s words speak volumes about Maurin’s character. In a sport where ego can sometimes overshadow effort, Maurin remains grounded, focused, and team-first. It’s no wonder his teammates and coaches have so much faith in him.
The Future is Bright
At just 18 years old, Nate Maurin is already turning heads. His athleticism, his composure, his ability to bounce back after a tough game—these are the traits of a goaltender with a sky-high ceiling. And let’s not forget, this is his first season at the Elite level. The learning curve is steep, but Maurin is climbing it with the confidence of a guy who knows he belongs.
For the Chicago Cougars, Maurin’s emergence is a game-changer. In a league where goaltending can make or break a season, having a guy like Nate between the pipes is a luxury. He’s not just a player; he’s a difference-maker. And as the Cougars push for a playoff spot, they’ll be leaning heavily on their rookie netminder to keep them in the hunt.
Final Thoughts
Nate Maurin’s USPHL Midwest Division Player of the Week honor is more than just a pat on the back—it’s a recognition of his hard work, his talent, and his impact on this Cougars team. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the future arrives earlier than expected.
So here’s to Nate Maurin: the rookie, the wall, the heartbeat of the Chicago Cougars. Fans keep your eyes on #50 because something tells me this is just the beginning.
From the entire Chicago Cougars organization congratulations, Nate. You’ve earned it.