WHL team signs 15-year-old goalie from Okotoks

The Spokane Chiefs have signed 15-year-old goalie Carter Esler to a WHL Scholarship and Development agreement.

Esler was drafted in the first round by the club, 22nd overall, and it's first time in franchise history they've selected a goalie in the first round.

Carter Esler signing with the WHL Spokane Chiefs (Photo: Supplied)

In a news release sent out by the team, General Manager Matt Bardsley was thrilled with the signing.

“We are excited to welcome Carter and his family to the Chiefs organization. Carter is a very composed, technical goaltender who provides a calmness and confidence in the net. He will display his athleticism when needed and has the ability to make the big save. Carter is very focused and driven to be the best and we are excited for his future in Spokane.”

Esler was equally excited about joining the club.

“I am very honoured to be drafted and signed to such a great organization. I have heard nothing but great things about Spokane. All of the staff and players have been very welcoming and I’m excited to be a Spokane Chief.” 

He most recently played with the Okotoks Oilers U15AAA team in 2022-23 posting a 2.98 GAA and a .925 SV% over 21 games.

Esler also had a great playoff run with a 7-1-1 record including a shutout and he also played in the 2023 Alberta Cup All-Star for Alberta Green in which they won the tournament.

While he won't be eligible to play full-time with the team until the 2024-25 season, he's allowed to play up to five games as an Affiliated Player this upcoming 2-23-24 season.