Thank You, Ryan

Ryan Hayes joined the Amherst Ramblers with one of the most decorated resumes in the Maritime Junior Hockey League. A native of Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia, the 6’3″, 205-pound defenseman brought a “championship DNA” to the Ramblers’ blue line that proved invaluable during their 2026 playoff run.

Hayes’ junior career began with high expectations after being selected 1st overall in the 2021 MHL Draft by the Miramichi Timberwolves. He quickly lived up to the billing, establishing himself as a premier shutdown defenseman. His tenure in Miramichi was highlighted by the 2023–24 season, where he played a pivotal role in leading the Timberwolves to an MHL Cup Championship. His ability to neutralize opponents’ top lines and his veteran poise made him one of the league’s most sought-after defenders.

With the Ramblers looking to bolster their defensive depth for a deep post-season push, they acquired Hayes from Miramichi in a high-profile trade in January 2026. Hayes’ transition to the Amherst Stadium was seamless; he immediately took on top-four minutes and became a fixture on the Ramblers’ penalty kill. In 48 combined games between Miramichi and Amherst, he recorded 3 goals and 13 assists for 16 points, but his impact was most felt in his defensive zone coverage and physical play.

In the 2026 MHL Cup playoffs, Hayes’ experience shone through. He was a calming influence during the high-pressure semi-final series against the Summerside Western Capitals, often logging heavy minutes against the Capitals’ elite forwards. His 80 penalty minutes over the course of the season reflected a player who refused to be intimidated and consistently stood up for his teammates.

Though his time in a Ramblers jersey was relatively brief, Ryan Hayes left a lasting mark on the organization. He provided the veteran “heavy” presence the team needed to compete with the league’s elite. His professional approach to the game and his championship experience served as a blueprint for the younger defensemen on the roster. Hayes will be remembered as the final piece of the puzzle for the 2025–26 defensive unit—a player who brought grit, leadership, and a winning pedigree to Amherst.