The New Mexico Goatheads have added another piece to their inaugural blue line, signing defenseman Noah Barlage (pronounced bar-LAH-gee) to an ECHL contract for the 2026-27 season.
Barlage heads to New Mexico after completing two seasons at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The 23-year-old appeared in 31 games for the Nanooks during the 2025-26 season, recording four assists and finishing with a plus-seven rating.
“Noah is a mobile, intelligent defenseman who moves the puck efficiently and brings a strong two-way presence,” said Head Coach Zack Stortini. “He can generate offense from the blue line while remaining competitive and difficult to play against defensively. His poise, vision, and decision-making fit perfectly with the style and identity we’re building here in New Mexico.”
Across his two seasons at Alaska Fairbanks, Barlage appeared in 46 games and recorded six assists.
Prior to college, the Humboldt, Saskatchewan native spent the 2023-24 season with the Madison Capitols of the United States Hockey League (USHL), appearing in 57 games and recording seven points (2 goals, 5 assists).
Barlage previously played two seasons for his hometown Humboldt Broncos of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL), where he totaled 78 points (14 goals, 64 assists) in 112 regular-season games and served as an alternate captain during the 2022-23 season.
Barlage will begin his professional career in New Mexico as the Goatheads continue building their roster ahead of the franchise's inaugural season.
The Goatheads open the 2026-27 regular season on Friday, Oct. 16, against the Idaho Steelheads at the Rio Rancho Events Center.
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