Goaltender Caleb Cross was in Chippewa Falls this week practicing with the Chippewa Steel of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). He is the fourth Cobras player to earn an opportunity with an NAHL team this season.

The 19-year old Cross has been a steady influence on the Cobras throughout the season. Last month he was named honorable mention for NA3HL Goalie of the Month (December 2021).

“It’s been fun to get out and practice with a NAHL team,” said Cross. “It definitely challenges me to get faster and always be in position. The team has been very welcoming the whole time and are great guys to be around.”

In seven games played December 1 through January 1 Cross stopped 269 or 287 shots faced (.937 save%) giving up just 18 goals. For the season the Mankato, Minnesota native has a record of 8-12-1 with a 3.93 GAA and .926 save%.

“Cross has been huge for us between the pipes this season and has proved that he is a top goalie in the NA3HL,” said Cobras coach Kirk Golden. “He earned this opportunity to get on the ice with a Tier II club.”

Cross was a four-year varsity player at Mankato West High School.

Butte Cobras (15-21-2-0) are back in action this weekend hosting the Frontier Division leading Gillette Wild (33-3-1-0).