Noah Philp, a 25-year-old center hailing from Canmore, has decided to rejoin professional hockey by signing a one-year, two-way contract with the Edmonton Oilers valued at $775,000 at the NHL level. This marks his return to the sport after taking a year-long hiatus, during which speculation arose about his retirement.
“When I left hockey, it wasn’t about retiring,” Philp clarified. “I just felt a strong urge to step away for a while. I traveled and took time to distance myself from the game. About 10 months later, I started feeling that pull to return. I missed it.”
His unexpected departure from hockey was announced in June 2023, a decision that surprised many, especially considering the Edmonton Oilers had previously offered him a two-year contract, which he declined at the time.
Former Oilers general manager Ken Holland noted, “He’s made a decision to call it a career,” explaining that Philp’s choice was influenced by personal reasons, including a desire to be near family and friends in Calgary.
Philp emphasized that his hiatus wasn’t prompted by burnout but rather a natural evolution of his interests. “Interests change as we get older,” he reflected. “I just followed my gut and took the time I needed.”
Around the turn of the year, Philp started feeling the urge to lace up his skates again. He began preparing physically, mentally, and spiritually, gradually easing himself back onto the ice. Now, he’s eager to join the Oilers’ training camp and resume his professional career.
Standing at six-foot-three, Philp was once considered a promising prospect within the Oilers organization, with potential to fill the role of a fourth-line center, particularly due to salary cap considerations.
During the 2022-23 season, Philp showcased his skills with the Bakersfield Condors, Edmonton’s AHL affiliate, scoring 19 goals and tallying 37 points with a respectable plus-4 rating.
While he anticipates starting the upcoming season with the Condors, Philp remains hopeful for an NHL call-up, underscoring his aspiration to compete at hockey’s highest level. “I’m focused on taking it day-by-day and giving it my best shot,” he stated.
In addition to his comeback, Philp has teamed up with Sam Jones to launch “Be A Pro,” a hockey training program in Canmore aimed at nurturing elite players. The program emphasizes not only the development of skills but also the enjoyment of the journey towards professional hockey.
“Hockey demands a lot, both physically and mentally,” Philp explained. “We’re promoting good habits while encouraging players to savor the process of becoming professionals.”
Currently tailored for junior players and active pros, Philp envisions expanding “Be A Pro” in the future, broadening its scope with additional programs and coaching opportunities.
In summary, Noah Philp’s return to professional hockey represents a personal and professional resurgence, marked by a renewed passion for the game and a commitment to guiding the next generation of hockey talent through his training initiative in Canmore.
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