The newest member of the Cretin-Derham Hall blueline is 2008 DOB Phoenix Cahill, a swift skating defender with size and skill. The Raiders lost a lot of talented defenders to graduation and the addition of Cahill will soften that blow as he’s one of the top young prospects in the state.
Cahill is an excellent skater with great balance and edges. His first few strides and agility support his ability to effectively gain zones and set up the offense. Phoenix possesses a hard and accurate shot that he disguises nicely until its released. He has the patience and puck control skills to find an opening for a higher average shot, upping the value and limiting the risk of a block.
Phoenix does an exceptional job at hindering the options for the opposition by his play without the puck. getting into lanes and interrupting plays. He keeps his stick active and has shown great timing on when to initiate contact. He doesn’t just wait for the forward to get the puck and then react, instead, he’s reading the play and paying close attention to possible passing options, taking away the avenues before they’re available. One of my favorite parts of his game is his soft interference of plays. I’m not talking a hold or a penalty infraction but using body positioning and intelligence to block the opposition’s ability to drive to the net in hopes of a scoring chance or rebound.
Cahill, who was drafted by Prince George in the 1st Round, 15th Overall in the 2023 WHL U.S. Priority Draft in May, has progressed immensely over the summer. It was a busy “off-season” for Cahill, playing in numerous camps across North America. The High Performance 15’s Developmental Camp, Prince George Prospects Showcase, and the Green Bay’s Main Camp are just a few he competed in. Playing against top competition should have him prepared to have a successful sophomore season on the Cretin blue line.
As forementioned, Cretin lost some talented defensemen, but they have plenty of talented players to make this one of the better defensive units in the state. Cahill will join Mercyhurst Commit, Jimmy Dodig, who will anchor the group with leadership and physical play. While seniors Aidan Siegfried and Luke Chorlton will add valuable experience backend.
Cahill and Cretin will kick off their season against Hermantown on Friday.