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Wildcat Tommy Bleyl earns Rookie of the Year at the 2026 CHL Awards

Brad Smith — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 19:40:42 +0000

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to unveil its 2025-26 award winners, headlined by Anaheim Ducks prospect Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL), who was named the CHL David Branch Player of the Year at a ceremony held Monday in downtown Toronto. With the honour, Massé becomes just the sixth player in CHL history to win both CHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award over the course of his career, joining Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), John Tavares (Oshawa Generals / OHL), Alex DeBrincat (Erie Otters / OHL), Alexis Lafrenière (Rimouski Océanic / QMJHL), and Gavin McKenna (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL). The 19-year-old from Rimouski, Que., previously earned CHL Rookie of the Year honours in 2022-23 before capturing the QMJHL’s Michel-Brière Trophy as league MVP this season. Massé is also the second Chicoutimi Saguenéens player to win the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award, joining Pierre-Marc Bouchard, who earned the honour in 2001-02. He becomes the first QMJHL player to capture the CHL’s top individual award since Lafrenière won it in back-to-back seasons with the Rimouski Océanic in 2018-19 and 2019-20. The Anaheim Ducks prospect finished the 2025-26 campaign with 102 points, including 51 goals and 51 assists, in 63 games, helping lead Chicoutimi to its first QMJHL Championship title in 32 years. Among the other notable winners was a pair of Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) standouts in 2026 NHL Draft prospect Markus Ruck and Montreal Canadiens prospect Bryce Pickford. Ruck was named the CHL’s Top Scorer after leading the league with 108 points (21G-87A), while Pickford earned CHL Defenceman of the Year honours after producing one of the most prolific goal-scoring seasons ever by a CHL and WHL blueliner, tallying 45 goals in 55 games. Another historic winner was Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) defenceman Tommy Bleyl, who was named CHL Rookie of the Year following a record-setting season in the QMJHL. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect became just the fourth defenceman to earn the honour, joining Philippe Boucher (Granby Bisons / QMJHL, 1990-91), Bryan Berard (Detroit Jr. Red Wings / OHL, 1994-95), and Landon DuPont (Everett Silvertips / WHL, 2024-25). With Bleyl following DuPont, it also marked the first time in CHL history that defencemen won CHL Rookie of the Year in consecutive seasons. Bleyl set a new QMJHL record for points by a rookie defenceman with 81, surpassing a mark that had stood since 1978. The 2026 CHL Awards also saw Everett Silvertips (WHL) head coach Steve Hamilton earn the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award after leading Everett to the best regular season in franchise history, a 57-8-2-1 record for 117 points, along with the club’s first WHL Championship, first Memorial Cup appearance, and first Memorial Cup Final. Hamilton became the first Silvertips head coach to win the CHL’s Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award. Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s (OHL) also made history Monday by earning CHL Goaltender of the Year honours following a record-setting rookie season in the OHL. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect became the first Ottawa 67’s player to win the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award, as well as just the second rookie or first-year CHL netminder — and the first in 31 years — to capture the honour, joining Martin Biron of the Beauport Harfangs (QMJHL), who won it in 1994-95. Fetterolf led the CHL with a 2.07 goals-against average and .923 save percentage, while his six shutouts set a new OHL record for the most by a rookie goaltender in a single season. Other award winners announced Monday included Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds (OHL) as the CHL Top Draft Prospect, Cole Beaudoin of the Barrie Colts (OHL) as CHL Sportsman Player of the Year, Alex Weiermair of the Portland Winterhawks (WHL) as CHL Scholastic Player of the Year, and Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL) as CHL Humanitarian of the Year. Kearsey’s honour also continues a remarkable run of community leadership from the Charlottetown Islanders. With his recognition Monday, the Islanders become the first club in CHL history to win the CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award in consecutive seasons, following Maxwell Jardine’s 2024-25 victory. Charlottetown has now produced the QMJHL finalist for the honour in four of the last five seasons — including each of the last three — further underscoring the Islanders’ sustained commitment to making an impact beyond the rink. Presented annually, the CHL Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of players and coaches from across the CHL, with 10 trophies presented based on individual performances, leadership, community impact, academic achievement, and contributions to team success. For more information on each award and its three finalists, please visit chl.ca/tag/chl-awards. David Branch Player of the Year Award Winner – Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) Nominees – Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) & Sam O’Reilly (Kitchener Rangers / OHL) The CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award is given out annually to the player judged to be the most outstanding in the Canadian Hockey League. Formerly known as the CHL Player of the Year Award, the trophy was renamed in 2019-20 in honour of David Branch, who served as OHL Commissioner from 1979-2024 and CHL President from 1996-2019. Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) earned the honour after being named the QMJHL’s Most Valuable Player and capturing the first scoring title of his QMJHL career. The Anaheim Ducks prospect recorded 102 points, including 51 goals and 51 assists, in 63 games, finishing six points ahead of Val-d’Or Foreurs forward Philippe Veilleux in the QMJHL scoring race. Massé’s 51 goals also tied for the CHL lead, while he was one of only two players across the CHL to surpass both the 50-goal and 100-point marks in 2025-26. He ranked second in the QMJHL with a plus-62 rating and eight game-winning goals, while his 1.62 points-per-game rate stood as the highest in the CHL among players who appeared in more than 60 games. The third-round pick of the Anaheim Ducks in the 2024 NHL Draft becomes just the sixth player in CHL history to win both CHL Rookie of the Year and CHL David Branch Player of the Year over the course of his career, joining Sidney Crosby, John Tavares, Alex DeBrincat, Alexis Lafrenière, and Gavin McKenna. Defenceman of the Year Award Winner – Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) Nominees – Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts / OHL) & Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Defenceman of the Year Award is given out annually to the top defenceman in the Canadian Hockey League. Bryce Pickford of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) earned the honour after authoring one of the greatest goal-scoring seasons by a defenceman in modern CHL history. The Montreal Canadiens prospect finished the 2025-26 season with 83 points, including 45 goals and 38 assists, along with a plus-55 rating in 55 games. His 45 goals were the most by a CHL defenceman in nearly 40 years, dating back to Greg Hawgood’s 48-goal campaign in 1987-88, and the highest single-season total by a CHL blueliner in the 21st century. Pickford was the only defenceman to finish among the CHL’s top 10 goal scorers in 2025-26. His 45 goals were tied for second among WHL skaters, while his 19 power-play goals and 11 game-winning goals ranked tied for first in the CHL. The 20-year-old captain from Chauvin, Alta., also helped Medicine Hat claim a second consecutive Central Division title and was named to the WHL Eastern Conference First All-Star Team. With the honour, Pickford becomes the second Medicine Hat Tigers player to win CHL Defenceman of the Year, joining Kris Russell, who earned the award in 2006-07. Goaltender of the Year Award Winner – Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) Nominees – Joshua Ravensbergen (Prince George Cougars / WHL) & Rudy Guimond (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Goaltender of the Year Award is given out annually to the top goaltender in the Canadian Hockey League. Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s (OHL) earned the honour following a historic rookie season between the pipes. Signed by Ottawa as an undrafted free agent last summer, Fetterolf quickly emerged as one of the OHL’s top goaltenders, finishing the regular season with a 29-9-2-1 record, a franchise-record 2.07 goals-against average, and a CHL-leading .923 save percentage. His six shutouts also set a new OHL record for the most by a rookie goaltender in a single season. The 18-year-old from Sewickley, Pa., led the CHL in both goals-against average and save percentage, while his 2.07 goals-against average stands as the fifth-lowest single-season mark by an OHL goaltender in league history. He also shared the Dave Pinkney Trophy with Jaeden Nelson as the OHL’s lowest goals-against tandem and received the F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy as the rookie goaltender with the league’s lowest goals-against average. Fetterolf becomes the first Ottawa 67’s player to win the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award. He is also just the second rookie or first-year CHL goaltender to capture the honour, and the first in 31 years, following Martin Biron of the Beauport Harfangs (QMJHL) in 1994-95. Fetterolf also becomes just the third American-born netminder to win the award, joining Michael Houser of the London Knights (OHL), who earned the honour in 2011-12, and Dustin Wolf of the Everett Silvertips (WHL), who captured it in 2019-20. Rookie of the Year Award Winner – Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) Nominees – JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers / WHL) & Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) The CHL Rookie of the Year Award is given out annually to the top rookie in the Canadian Hockey League. Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) earned the honour after a record-setting debut season from the blue line. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect finished second among all QMJHL rookies with 81 points in 63 games, setting a new league record for points by a rookie defenceman. The previous mark of 77 points had stood since 1978 and was held by Gaston Therrien. Bleyl’s 68 assists led the entire QMJHL, regardless of position, and stand as the highest single-season total by a CHL rookie defenceman in the 21st century. Bleyl also became only the second player in QMJHL history to win both the Sidney-Crosby Trophy as Rookie of the Year and the Émile-Bouchard Trophy as Defenceman of the Year in the same season, joining Dmitry Kulikov, who accomplished the feat with the Drummondville Voltigeurs in 2008-09. He also captured the Raymond-Lagacé Trophy as Defensive Rookie of the Year. With the CHL honour, Bleyl becomes just the fourth defenceman to be named CHL Rookie of the Year, joining Philippe Boucher, Bryan Berard, and Landon DuPont, who captured the award last season. He is also the first Moncton Wildcats player to win the award and the sixth American to receive CHL Rookie of the Year honours, joining Patrick Kane of the London Knights (OHL), Alex DeBrincat of the Erie Otters (OHL), David Legwand of the Plymouth Whalers (OHL), Bryan Berard of the Detroit Jr. Red Wings (OHL), and Patrick O’Sullivan of the Mississauga IceDogs (OHL). Top Scorer Award Winner – Markus Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL) Nominees – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) & Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Top Scorer Award is given out annually to the highest-scoring player in the Canadian Hockey League. It was first awarded in 1994. Markus Ruck of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) captured the honour after leading the WHL and the entire CHL with 108 points during the 2025-26 season. The 18-year-old from Osoyoos, B.C., recorded 21 goals and a CHL-best 87 assists while posting a plus-45 rating in 68 games. His exceptional vision and playmaking ability helped drive a Medicine Hat team that led the WHL in goals, owned the league’s top power play, and finished atop the Central Division. Ruck’s twin brother, Liam, finished second in both the WHL and CHL scoring races with 104 points, making Markus and Liam the first siblings in CHL history to finish first and second in league scoring in the same season. They also became the first brothers ever to place 1-2 in scoring within a CHL Member League. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect became the first Medicine Hat skater since Linden Vey in 2010-11 to lead the CHL in scoring and just the second Tigers player to win the CHL Top Scorer Award. Ruck was held off the scoresheet just 12 times all season and recorded at least three points in a game on 11 occasions. Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award Winner – Steve Hamilton (Everett Silvertips / WHL) Nominees – Dave Cameron (Ottawa 67’s / OHL) & Sylvain Favreau (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL) Named in recognition of former Ottawa 67’s head coach and CHL all-time wins leader Brian Kilrea, the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award is presented annually to the Canadian Hockey League’s top coach. Steve Hamilton of the Everett Silvertips (WHL) earned the honour after guiding Everett through the best season in franchise history. In just his second season with the Silvertips, Hamilton led the club to a 57-8-2-1 record and 117 points, helping Everett capture a second straight Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy as WHL regular-season champions. Everett’s 57 wins and 117 points both set franchise records, while the Silvertips’ .860 points percentage ranked seventh all-time in CHL history among teams that played at least 50 games. The club was one of the CHL’s most complete teams, finishing third in the WHL with 304 goals for while allowing just 173 goals against, the second-fewest in the league. Hamilton’s season continued into a historic postseason run, as Everett went 16-2 through the WHL Playoffs to capture the first Ed Chynoweth Cup title in franchise history. The Silvertips then made their first Memorial Cup appearance, recorded their first Memorial Cup win and shutout, and advanced to their first Memorial Cup Final. Hamilton becomes the first Silvertips coach to capture the CHL Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award. Top Draft Prospect Award Winner – Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds / OHL) Nominees – Carson Carels (Prince George Cougars / WHL) & Maddox Dagenais (Québec Remparts / QMJHL) The CHL Top Draft Prospect Award is presented annually to the top eligible prospect for the NHL Draft from the Canadian Hockey League. The award was first presented in 1991. Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds (OHL) earned the 2026 honour after establishing himself as the highest-ranked current CHL skater ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft. Ranked No. 2 among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, Reid enjoyed an outstanding season with the Greyhounds, recording 48 points, including 18 goals and 30 assists, in 45 regular season games. The 18-year-old defenceman from Chesterfield, Mich., was the only first-year draft-eligible defenceman in the OHL — and one of just six across the CHL — to average at least a point per game during the 2025-26 season. Although he missed the final 17 games of the regular season due to injury, Reid returned during the playoffs and recorded six points, including three goals and three assists, in 10 games. A gifted skater with high-end offensive instincts and the ability to play significant minutes in all situations, Reid was recognized in four categories in the annual OHL Coaches Poll. He was voted the Western Conference’s Best Offensive Defenceman while also receiving recognition for Best Skater, Best Shot, and Best Defensive Defenceman. Reid becomes the second Greyhounds player to win the CHL Top Draft Prospect Award, joining Joe Thornton, who captured the honour in 1996-97. He also becomes the fourth American to earn the award, joining Bryan Berard of the Detroit Jr. Red Wings (OHL), Patrick Kane of the London Knights (OHL), and Seth Jones of the Portland Winterhawks (WHL). With Reid’s win, defencemen have now claimed the award eight times since it was first presented in 1991. He also marks the second straight OHL blueliner to receive the honour, following Erie Otters defenceman Matthew Schaefer, who won the award a year ago before capturing this year’s Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s rookie of the year. Sportsman of the Year Award Winner – Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts / OHL) Nominees: Braeden Cootes (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL) & Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award is given out annually to the most sportsmanlike player in the Canadian Hockey League. Cole Beaudoin of the Barrie Colts (OHL) earned the honour after delivering one of the league’s most complete seasons while maintaining a disciplined, hard-driving style. The Barrie Colts captain led his club in scoring with 89 points, including 33 goals and 56 assists, in just 54 games, while posting a plus-40 rating and taking only 29 penalty minutes. His 1.65 points-per-game average ranked second in the OHL, placing him among the CHL’s most efficient offensive performers. Beaudoin’s well-rounded game was recognized in the OHL Coaches Poll, where he led all players in the Eastern Conference with four first-place finishes — hardest worker, best defensive forward, best on face-offs, and best penalty killer — while also placing second in the category of smartest player. He also finished tied for the OHL lead with 10 game-winning goals and won 55 per cent of his face-offs. Selected by the Utah Mammoth in the first round, 24th overall, of the 2024 NHL Draft, the 6-foot-2, 211-pound centreman from Kanata, Ont., has registered 222 points in 236 career OHL regular-season games. Beaudoin becomes the second Barrie Colts player to win the CHL Sportsman Player of the Year Award, joining Evan Vierling, who received the honour in 2022-23. Scholastic Player of the Year Award Winner – Alex Weiermair (Portland Winterhawks / WHL) Nominees – Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit / OHL) & Nathan Brisson (Val-d’Or Foreurs / QMJHL) The CHL Scholastic Player of the Year Award is presented annually to a Canadian Hockey League player who is best able to combine success on the ice with success in the classroom. Alex Weiermair of the Portland Winterhawks (WHL) earned the honour after excelling academically while enjoying a standout overage season on the ice. The 21-year-old from Los Angeles, Calif., maintained a 4.0 GPA across challenging university coursework, including chemistry, business, history, and psychology. His academic background also includes advanced-level calculus and physics, while away from formal coursework, Weiermair speaks German and is teaching himself Italian. On the ice, the Vegas Golden Knights prospect recorded 93 points, including 37 goals and 56 assists, in 66 regular season games. He led the Winterhawks in scoring and finished fifth overall in the WHL while contributing consistently in all situations. Despite playing a heavy-minute role, Weiermair recorded just 28 penalty minutes and was also named a finalist for the Brad Hornung Memorial Trophy as the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player. An alternate captain in Portland, Weiermair was recognized throughout the organization for his maturity, humility, integrity, and leadership both on and off the ice. With the honour, Weiermair becomes the second Portland Winterhawks player to be named CHL Scholastic Player of the Year, joining Dan Hulak, who captured the award following the 2000-01 season. Humanitarian of the Year Award Winner – Marcus Kearsey (Charlottetown Islanders / QMJHL) Nominees: Shane Smith (Kelowna Rockets / WHL) & Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires / OHL) The CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award is presented annually to the CHL player judged to have made the most notable contribution to his community. Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL) earned the 2026 honour in recognition of his outstanding community involvement, leadership, and excellence on the ice. The Charlottetown captain was named the QMJHL Humanitarian of the Year for the second time in three seasons, having previously received the QMJHL award in 2023-24. Kearsey’s recognition continues a remarkable run for the Islanders. With his CHL honour, Charlottetown becomes the first club in CHL history to win the Humanitarian of the Year Award in consecutive seasons, after Maxwell Jardine captured the award in 2024-25. A Charlottetown Islanders player has now represented the QMJHL as a finalist for the honour in four of the last five seasons, including each of the last three. Over four seasons in Charlottetown, Kearsey became one of the Islanders’ most active community ambassadors. He launched the Kearsey’s Kids program, inviting a child to each regular-season home game as his guest, complete with tickets, a personalized poster, a T-shirt, and a pre-game meet-and-greet. He also served as the Islanders’ Hockey Gives Blood ambassador, helping organize team blood donations and promote fan participation, while supporting Canadian Blood Services through more than 100 donations tied to the program. Kearsey’s impact also extended to several other causes across Prince Edward Island. He served as player ambassador for the Islanders’ One Game One Wish fundraiser in support of Make-A-Wish, helping the club reach its $10,000 goal, delivered an anti-bullying presentation to more than 100 students through PEI Crime Stoppers, and regularly took part in minor hockey practices, jamborees, school visits, autograph sessions, and youth hockey initiatives both during the season and in the offseason. On the ice, Kearsey enjoyed the best offensive season of his QMJHL career, recording a personal-high 55 points, including 15 goals and 40 assists, in 62 games. He finished fifth among QMJHL defencemen in scoring, while his five power-play goals and three game-winning goals both ranked second among league blueliners.

Bleyl & Guimond up for 2026 CHL Awards on June 15 in Toronto

Brad Smith — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:41:03 +0000

Nineteen CHL clubs represented among 2026 finalists, led by historic seasons from Bryce Pickford, Tommy Bleyl, Nikita Klepov, and Maxim Massé

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is proud to announce the finalists for its 10 major awards for the 2025-26 season, with the complete list of finalists available below. Winners will be honoured at the 2026 CHL Awards ceremony, taking place Monday, June 15, in downtown Toronto. The finalists for each CHL award are determined by the winners of the corresponding honours presented by the CHL’s three Member Leagues: the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). Across the 30 finalist spots for this year’s 10 CHL awards, 19 different CHL clubs are represented, including seven from the WHL, six from the OHL, and six from the QMJHL — reflecting standout 2025-26 seasons from players, coaches, and organizations across the CHL. Four players enter the 2026 CHL Awards with multiple nominations after seasons that rewrote record books across the CHL. Bryce Pickford of the Medicine Hat Tigers (WHL) is a finalist for both the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award and CHL Defenceman of the Year Award after scoring 45 goals — the most by a CHL defenceman in nearly 40 years. The Montreal Canadiens prospect is the first defenceman to be named a finalist for the CHL’s top individual honour since Ryan Ellis (Windsor Spitfires / OHL) in 2010-11. If selected, Pickford would become just the fifth defenceman to win the award and the first since Ellis. Tommy Bleyl of the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL) is also nominated twice, earning finalist recognition for both CHL Rookie of the Year and CHL Defenceman of the Year after setting a new QMJHL record for points by a rookie defenceman with 81. The 2026 NHL Draft prospect also became just the second player in QMJHL history to win both the league’s Rookie of the Year and Defenceman of the Year honours in the same season, joining Dmitry Kulikov (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL), who accomplished the feat in 2008-09. Should Bleyl capture both CHL awards, he would become the first player in CHL history to win CHL Rookie of the Year and CHL Defenceman of the Year in the same season. Nikita Klepov of the Saginaw Spirit (OHL) and Maxim Massé of the Chicoutimi Saguenéens (QMJHL) round out the group of multi-award finalists. Klepov, a 2026 NHL Draft prospect nominated for both CHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL Top Scorer Award, became the first rookie to lead a CHL Member League in scoring since Patrick Kane did so with the London Knights in 2006-07 — a feat achieved by only one other rookie since 2000, Sidney Crosby with the Rimouski Océanic in 2003-04. Massé, an Anaheim Ducks prospect and finalist for both the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award and CHL Top Scorer Award, captured the QMJHL scoring title with 102 points and was one of only two CHL players to surpass both the 50-goal and 100-point marks this season. Some of the other compelling storylines to watch heading into the 2026 CHL Awards include:

Markus Ruck of the Medicine Hat Tigers led the entire CHL with 108 points, while his twin brother Liam finished second with 104, making them the first siblings in CHL history to finish first and second in league scoring in the same season.
This year marks the first time in CHL history that all three Member League Rookie of the Year recipients are U.S.-born players, with JP Hurlbert of the Kamloops Blazers (WHL), Klepov (OHL), and Bleyl (QMJHL) all nominated for CHL Rookie of the Year.
Should Bleyl be named CHL Rookie of the Year, he would become just the fourth defenceman to receive the honour, joining Philippe Boucher (Granby Bisons / QMJHL, 1990-91), Bryan Berard (Detroit Jr. Red Wings / OHL, 1994-95), and Landon DuPont (Everett Silvertips / WHL, 2024-25), who captured the award last season.
Massé, the CHL Rookie of the Year in 2022-23, could become just the sixth player in CHL history to win both CHL Rookie of the Year and the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award over the course of his career, joining Sidney Crosby, John Tavares, Alex DeBrincat, Alexis Lafrenière, and Gavin McKenna.
Sam O’Reilly of the Kitchener Rangers enters the ceremony as a finalist for the CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award following a remarkable campaign in which he was named OHL regular-season MVP, OHL Playoff MVP, and Memorial Cup MVP while leading Kitchener to a Memorial Cup title. Should he win the CHL’s top individual honour, the Tampa Bay Lightning prospect would join Brad Richards and Mitch Marner as the only players to capture CHL Player of the Year after completing that rare MVP sweep in the same season.
Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s is a finalist for CHL Goaltender of the Year after leading the CHL with a .923 save percentage, posting a CHL-best 2.07 goals-against average, and setting a new OHL rookie record with six shutouts. If selected, the 2026 NHL Draft prospect would become only the second rookie goaltender to win the CHL Goaltender of the Year Award — and the first in 31 years — following Martin Biron of the Beauport Harfangs (QMJHL) in 1994-95.
Steve Hamilton of the Everett Silvertips is nominated for the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award after guiding Everett to a franchise-record 57-win regular season, the first WHL Championship in club history, the Silvertips’ first Memorial Cup appearance, and their first Memorial Cup Final appearance.
Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders could help make CHL history, as an Islanders win would mark the first time a club has captured the CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award in consecutive seasons. With Kearsey earning his second nomination for this CHL honour in the last three seasons, a Charlottetown Islanders player has now represented the QMJHL as a finalist for the award in four of the last five seasons, including each of the last three.

Presented annually, the CHL Awards celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of players from across the CHL, with 10 trophies presented based on individual performances. For more information on each award and its three finalists, please visit chl.ca/tag/chl-awards. David Branch Player of the Year Award Nominees: Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), Sam O’Reilly (Kitchener Rangers / OHL), Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL David Branch Player of the Year Award is given out annually to the player judged to be the most outstanding in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy (WHL Player of the Year), the Red Tilson Trophy (OHL Most Outstanding Player), and the Michel-Brière Trophy (QMJHL MVP). The trophy was renamed in 2019-20 in honour of David Branch, who was OHL Commissioner from 1979-2024 and served as CHL President from 1996-2019. Defenceman of the Year Award Nominees: Bryce Pickford (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts / OHL), Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Defenceman of the Year Award is given out annually to the top defenceman in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy (WHL Defenceman of the Year), the Max Kaminsky Trophy (OHL Defenceman of the Year), and the Émile-Bouchard Trophy (QMJHL Defenceman of the Year). Goaltender of the Year Award Nominees: Joshua Ravensbergen (Prince George Cougars / WHL), Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s / OHL), Rudy Guimond (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Goaltender of the Year Award is given out annually to the top goaltender in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Del Wilson Memorial Trophy (WHL Goaltender of the Year), the Jim Rutherford Trophy (OHL Goaltender of the Year), and the Patrick-Roy Trophy (QMJHL Goaltender of the Year). Rookie of the Year Award Nominees: JP Hurlbert (Kamloops Blazers / WHL), Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), Tommy Bleyl (Moncton Wildcats / QMJHL) The CHL Rookie of the Year Award is given out annually to the top rookie in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy (WHL Rookie of the Year), the Emms Family Award (OHL Rookie of the Year), and the Sidney-Crosby Trophy (QMJHL Rookie of the Year). Top Scorer Award Nominees: Markus Ruck (Medicine Hat Tigers / WHL), Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), Maxim Massé (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Top Scorer Award is given out annually to the highest-scoring player in the Canadian Hockey League. It was first awarded in 1994. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Bob Clarke Trophy (WHL Top Scorer), the Eddie Powers Trophy (OHL Top Scorer), and the Jean-Béliveau Trophy (QMJHL Scoring Champion). Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award Nominees: Steve Hamilton (Everett Silvertips / WHL), Dave Cameron (Ottawa 67’s / OHL), Sylvain Favreau (Drummondville Voltigeurs / QMJHL) Named in recognition of former Ottawa 67’s head coach and CHL all-time wins leader Brian Kilrea, the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award is presented annually to one of the winners of the CHL’s Member League coaching honours: the Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy (WHL Coach of the Year), the Matt Leyden Trophy (OHL Coach of the Year), and the Ron-Lapointe Trophy (QMJHL Coach of the Year). Top Draft Prospect Award Nominees: Carson Carels (Prince George Cougars / WHL), Chase Reid (Soo Greyhounds / OHL), Maddox Dagenais (Québec Remparts / QMJHL) The CHL Top Draft Prospect Award is presented annually to the top eligible prospect for the NHL Draft from the Canadian Hockey League. The award was first presented in 1991. Sportsman of the Year Award Nominees: Braeden Cootes (Prince Albert Raiders / WHL), Cole Beaudoin (Barrie Colts / OHL), Alex Huang (Chicoutimi Saguenéens / QMJHL) The CHL Sportsman of the Year Award is given out annually to the most sportsmanlike player in the Canadian Hockey League. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Brad Hornung Memorial Trophy (WHL Most Sportsmanlike Player), the William Hanley Trophy (OHL Most Sportsmanlike Player), and the David-Desharnais Trophy (QMJHL Most Sportsmanlike & Effective Player). Scholastic Player of the Year Award Nominees: Alex Weiermair (Portland Winterhawks / WHL), Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit / OHL), Nathan Brisson (Val-d’Or Foreurs / QMJHL) The CHL Scholastic Player of the Year Award is presented annually to a Canadian Hockey League player who is best able to combine success on the ice with success in the classroom. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Daryl K. “Doc” Seaman Memorial Trophy (WHL Scholastic Player of the Year), the Bobby Smith Trophy (OHL Scholastic Player of the Year), and the Marcel-Robert Trophy (QMJHL Scholastic Player of the Year). Humanitarian of the Year Award Nominees: Shane Smith (Kelowna Rockets / WHL), Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires / OHL), Marcus Kearsey (Charlottetown Islanders / QMJHL) The CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award is presented annually to the CHL player judged to have made the most notable contribution to his community. The winner of this award is chosen from the recipients of the Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy (WHL Humanitarian of the Year), the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy (OHL Humanitarian of the Year), and the QMJHL Humanitarian of the Year Award.

Moncton Wildcats confirm submission of intent to bid to host 2028 Memorial Cup

Brad Smith — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 18:10:44 +0000

The Moncton Wildcats of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) have officially submitted their intent to bid to host the 2028 Memorial Cup. The submission positions Moncton as a strong candidate to host the Canadian Hockey League’s premier championship event, bringing together the top teams in major junior hockey from across the country. “Moncton has a proven track record of delivering first-class national events,” said Wildcats President, R.J. Irving, “This bid reflects the strength of our organization, our city, and province. We are confident that the Moncton intent to bid outline meets, and exceeds, all of the criteria required to host a Memorial Cup.” “The Moncton Wildcats have been one of the winningest teams in the CHL over the past two seasons,” added Taylor MacDougall, General Manager and Director of Hockey Operations for the Moncton Wildcats. “We have demonstrated an ability to attract and retain top talent and are very confident we can build a roster that can compete and win the Memorial Cup in 2028.” Building on a long-standing tradition of hosting successful large-scale events, including the World Junior Hockey Championships in 2023, Moncton’s bid emphasizes both execution excellence and community engagement, ensuring a Memorial Cup that resonates with players, fans, partners, and the broader community. “The Memorial Cup represents the very best of major junior hockey in Canada,” added R.J. Irving. “We believe Moncton offers a unique combination of passionate fans, outstanding facilities, and proven event delivery that will make the 2028 tournament truly special.”

Les Wildcats de Moncton confirment le dépôt de leur intention de présenter une candidature pour accueillir la Coupe Memorial 2028

Les Wildcats de Moncton de la Ligue de hockey junior majeur du Québec (LHJMQ) ont officiellement soumis leur intention de présenter une candidature afin d’accueillir la Coupe Memorial 2028. Cette démarche positionne Moncton comme un candidat de premier plan pour accueillir le principal événement de championnat de la Ligue canadienne de hockey, qui réunit les meilleures équipes du hockey junior majeur à travers le pays. « Moncton a fait ses preuves en matière d’accueil d’événements nationaux de premier ordre, a déclaré le président des Wildcats, R.J. Irving. Cette candidature reflète la force de notre organisation, de notre ville et de notre province. Nous sommes convaincus qu’elle répond, et même dépasse, l’ensemble des critères requis pour accueillir la Coupe Memorial. » « Les Wildcats de Moncton ont été parmi les équipes les plus performantes de la LCH au cours des deux dernières saisons, a ajouté Taylor MacDougall, directeur général et directeur des opérations hockey. Nous avons démontré notre capacité à attirer et à retenir des talents de haut niveau et nous sommes très confiants de pouvoir bâtir une équipe capable de rivaliser pour remporter la Coupe Memorial en 2028. » S’appuyant sur une longue tradition d’organisation d’événements d’envergure, notamment le Championnat mondial junior de hockey en 2023, la candidature de Moncton met l’accent à la fois sur l’excellence de l’exécution et sur l’engagement communautaire, afin d’offrir une Coupe Memorial qui saura marquer les joueurs, les partisans, les partenaires et l’ensemble de la communauté. « La Coupe Memorial représente ce qui se fait de mieux dans le hockey junior majeur au Canada, a ajouté R.J. Irving. Nous croyons que Moncton offre une combinaison unique de partisans passionnés, d’installations de grande qualité et d’une expertise éprouvée en organisation d’événements, qui rendra le tournoi de 2028 véritablement exceptionnel. »

RJ Irving announced as new President of Moncton Wildcats

Brad Smith — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:38:58 +0000

The Moncton Wildcats introduced RJ Irving as the team’s new president, succeeding his father, Robert K. Irving. The transition reinforces the long-term stability of one of Canada’s premier major junior hockey franchises and ensures the team remains locally owned and operated. “Leading the Moncton Wildcats is both an honour and a responsibility,” said RJ Irving. “This is a community-first organization, and I will approach leading it with the same humility, stability, and a long-term commitment to excellence as my father did.” Irving emphasized the organization’s commitment to players, staff, fans, and the broader Moncton community. “Junior hockey plays a unique role in our communities — bringing people together, developing young athletes, and creating lifelong memories for families and fans,” said Irving. “The Moncton Wildcats have built an outstanding reputation both on and off the ice, and we are committed to preserving that culture while supporting the continued growth and success of the organization for years to come.” Gardiner MacDougall will remain with the team as head coach and his son Taylor MacDougall will return as General Manager and Director of Hockey Operations. “The Moncton Wildcats’ success has been built on a dedicated team acting together with integrity and passion, committed to excellence and professionalism. Our focus is helping our players achieve success on and off the ice,” said Gardiner MacDougall. “One of our big themes is Family Over Everything and with RJ’s leadership, that will remain and be as important as ever.” Taylor MacDougall also reflected on the significance of the transition and the legacy of the organization. “For the past two seasons my father and I worked very closely with the father and son team of Robert and RJ Irving,” he said. “I can see no better fit than RJ continuing what his father started with the dedicated hockey operations and business operations team we have in place. Together, we will continue building the Moncton Wildcats as one of the premier brands in the CHL and delivering an outstanding player experience. “My father was proud to build the Moncton Wildcats into one of the most well-run and respected franchises in the CHL, and I am proud to carry it forward. Our vision remains to win a Memorial Cup. We look forward to continuing the journey together through the team’s commitment to the community, player development, and championship aspirations that have defined the Wildcats for more than three decades,” said Irving.

RJ Irving nommé nouveau président des Wildcats de Moncton

Les Wildcats de Moncton ont annoncé la nomination de RJ Irving à titre de nouveau président de l’équipe, succédant à son père, Robert K. Irving. Cette transition renforce la stabilité à long terme de l’une des principales franchises de hockey junior majeur au Canada et garantit que l’équipe demeure détenue et exploitée localement. « Diriger les Wildcats de Moncton est à la fois un honneur et une responsabilité », a déclaré RJ Irving. « Il s’agit d’une organisation axée d’abord sur la communauté, et je compte la diriger avec la même humilité, la même stabilité et le même engagement à long terme envers l’excellence que mon père. » Irving a souligné l’engagement de l’organisation envers les joueurs, le personnel, les partisans et l’ensemble de la communauté du Grand Moncton. « Le hockey junior joue un rôle unique dans nos communautés — il rassemble les gens, développe de jeunes athlètes et crée des souvenirs durables pour les familles et les partisans », a ajouté Irving. « Les Wildcats de Moncton ont bâti une réputation exceptionnelle tant sur la glace qu’à l’extérieur, et nous nous engageons à préserver cette culture tout en soutenant la croissance et le succès continus de l’organisation pour les années à venir. » Gardiner MacDougall demeurera avec l’équipe à titre d’entraîneur-chef, tandis que son fils Taylor MacDougall reviendra comme directeur général et directeur des opérations hockey. « Le succès des Wildcats de Moncton repose sur une équipe dévouée qui agit avec intégrité et passion, dans un engagement constant envers l’excellence et le professionnalisme. Notre priorité est d’aider nos joueurs à réussir sur la glace comme à l’extérieur », a déclaré Gardiner MacDougall. « L’un de nos principes fondamentaux est “la famille avant tout”, et sous le leadership de RJ, cela restera plus important que jamais. » Taylor MacDougall a également souligné l’importance de cette transition et l’héritage de l’organisation. « Au cours des deux dernières saisons, mon père et moi avons travaillé de très près avec le duo père-fils formé de Robert et RJ Irving », a-t-il déclaré. « Je ne vois pas de meilleur candidat que RJ pour poursuivre ce que son père a commencé, avec l’équipe dévouée des opérations hockey et des opérations administratives en place. Ensemble, nous continuerons de faire des Wildcats de Moncton une des marques de premier plan dans la LCH et d’offrir une expérience exceptionnelle aux joueurs. » « Mon père était fier d’avoir bâti les Wildcats de Moncton comme l’une des franchises les mieux gérées et les plus respectées de la LCH, et je suis fier d’en assurer la continuité. Notre vision demeure de remporter la coupe Memorial. Nous avons hâte de poursuivre ce parcours ensemble grâce à notre engagement envers la communauté, le développement des joueurs et nos aspirations de championnat qui définissent les Wildcats depuis plus de trois décennies », a conclu Irving.

Wildcats unveil 2025-2026 Season Award Winners

Brad Smith — Wed, 20 May 2026 22:02:07 +0000

Fans, players and staff gathered on Wednesday evening at the Avenir Centre to hand out the year-end hardware. Here are the 2025-2026 winners:

Rookie of the Year Award Winner: Tommy Bleyl

Presented by Cansel Print

Outstanding Defensive Player Award Co-Winners: Gabe Smith & Adam Fortier-Gendron

Presented by Bell Aliant

Most Improved Player Award Winner: Rian Chudzinski

Presented by Midland Transport

Top Points Award Winner: Tommy Bleyl

Presented by Rogers Communication

Scholastic Player of the Year Award Winner: Rudy Gumond

Presented by Crandall University

Top Goal Scorer Award Winner: Niko Tournas

Presented by Eastlink

Rebecca Schofield Community Spirit Award Winner: Preston Lounsbury

Presented by Atlantic Lottery

Commitment to Excellence Award Co-Winners: Chris MacDonald & Jason Casey

Presented by Universal Truck and Trailer

Volunteer of the Year Award Co-Winners: Mike Doiron, Tim Kendall & Mike Gaudet

Presented by Moncton Wildcats

Unsung Hero Award Winner: Max Vilen

Presented by Medavie Blue Cross

Hardest Worker Award Winner: Teddy Mutryn

Presented by Subaru Moncton

Fans Choice Award Co-Winners: Caleb Desnoyers & Tommy Bleyl

Presented by REMAX Avante

Most Valuable Player Award Winner: Rudy Guimond

Presented by Royale

Efficient Award Winner: Gabe Smith

Presented by Lumar Electric

Top Defenceman Award Winner: Tommy Bleyl

Presented by Moosehead Light

Playoff Most Valuable Player Award Winner: Gabe Smith

Presented by Cavendish Farms

Corey Crawford Wildcat of the Year Award Winner: Alex Mercier

Presented by Harrisville Pharmacy

Moncton Wildcats announce passing of President Robert K. Irving

Brad Smith — Tue, 19 May 2026 19:31:35 +0000

It is with profound sadness that the family of Robert Kenneth Irving mark his passing today in Moncton, New Brunswick, following a courageous battle with cancer. Robert K. Irving, Co-CEO of J.D. Irving, Limited, was born on December 3, 1954, in Saint John, New Brunswick. He was the second-oldest son of James Kenneth Irving and Jean Elizabeth Saunders Irving, a grandson of K.C. Irving, and a devoted brother to James (Jim), Mary-Jean and Judith. Together with his wife of nearly 40 years, Jill (née Gougeon), he raised four children: Megan (Jordan), Meredith (Lance), Olivia (Christopher), and Robert James (R.J.) (Samantha). His children were a great source of pride and joy, and he celebrated their accomplishments with love and admiration. That joy only grew when he became a grandfather to Warren, Sutton, Collins, and Fraser – a role he cherished deeply. Family was always at the core, both in his personal life and throughout his devoted career at J.D. Irving, Limited. After graduating with a business degree from Acadia University, Robert established J.D. Irving, Limited’s Moncton operations in 1977 and called Moncton home ever since. From a young age, he and his siblings were instilled with the values of integrity, determination, and a life of purpose by their parents – values that guided him every day. He was proud to represent the fifth generation in the family business. He considered himself fortunate to share both the daily challenges and long-term vision of the business with his brother Jim. After nearly 50 years of dedicated service, Robert often said he was just getting started. An innovative and tireless entrepreneur, Robert established and grew successful businesses in various sectors including paper products, food processing, agriculture and transportation. He believed in doing things right the first time and no detail was too small to ignore. He embodied a sentiment his father often quoted: “The best fertilizer is the farmer’s footsteps in the soil.” He thrived on being where the action was – in the fields with farmers, on the manufacturing floor, or in transport terminals. He especially enjoyed meeting with customers at their offices or hosting them at J.D. Irving locations. Despite his many accomplishments, Robert remained humble, never seeking recognition for himself and always crediting the team for a job well done. He cared deeply for the employees who were at the heart of the company, always valuing their passion, enthusiasm, and the role each one played in its success. In recent years, he embraced a new and meaningful chapter, working alongside his children, Meredith, Olivia and R.J. in the business – a source of immense pride and fulfillment for him. Another of his passions was hockey. In 1996, he founded the Moncton Wildcats Hockey Club, bringing together his love for sport and competition with his commitment to youth development and community. He took great pride in the team’s three QMJHL championships (2006, 2010, and 2025), and in hosting the Memorial Cup in 2006. He rarely missed a game, cheering enthusiastically, and building lasting relationships with the players, often saying “once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat!” Robert was a proud Canadian and New Brunswicker whose commitment to his community was evident throughout his life. He played a leading role in numerous healthcare fundraising campaigns, most recently serving as the Campaign Chair to build the Jean Elizabeth Saunders Irving Obstetrics and Newborn Care Unit at the Moncton Hospital. He was a steadfast advocate for youth, education, and literacy. His support of a wide range of organizations made a lasting difference and he was recognized with some of New Brunswick’s most esteemed honours. These included the Boys and Girls Club of Moncton’s Builder of Youth Lifetime Achievement Award (2011); being named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Clubs of Greater Moncton (2014); the Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick’s Champion of Literacy Award (2016); and the rare centennial Paul Harris Fellowship Award, bestowed on the 100th anniversary of four Rotary Clubs (2020). He was a strong supporter of his wife Jill’s passion for equestrian sport, and in 2025 he was awarded Equestrian Canada’s highest and most prestigious national honour, the Gold Medal. Robert was inducted into the New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame, the Canadian Agriculture Hall of Fame, and the PEI Business Hall of Fame. He was awarded the Order of Moncton and the Order of New Brunswick in recognition of his extensive community involvement, generosity, and exceptional contributions to the province. Robert loved to win and took equal joy in seeing others succeed. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, and uncle of 17 nieces and nephews. His loss is profound for his family, community, and employees. His legacy will live on through his children and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered with great respect and dearly missed. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.

C’est avec une profonde tristesse que la famille de Robert Kenneth Irving annonce son décès aujourd’hui à Moncton, au Nouveau-Brunswick, après un courageux combat contre le cancer. Robert K. Irving, co-pdg de J.D. Irving, Limited, est né le 3 décembre 1954 à Saint John, au Nouveau-Brunswick. Il était le second fils de James Kenneth Irving et de Jean Elizabeth Saunders Irving, le petit-fils de K.C. Irving et le frère dévoué de James (Jim), Mary-Jean et Judith. Aux côtés de son épouse depuis près de 40 ans, Jill (née Gougeon), il a élevé quatre enfants : Megan (Jordan), Meredith (Lance), Olivia (Christopher) et Robert James (R.J.) (Samantha). Ses enfants étaient pour lui une grande source de fierté et de joie, et il célébrait leurs succès avec amour et admiration. Ce bonheur n’a fait que grandir quand il est devenu le grand-père de Warren, Sutton, Collins et Fraser – un rôle qu’il chérissait. La famille a toujours été au cœur de sa vie, tant sur le plan personnel que professionnel, tout au long de sa remarquable carrière chez J.D. Irving, Limited. Après avoir obtenu un diplôme en gestion des affaires à l’Université Acadia, Robert établit J.D. Irving, Limited à Moncton en 1977, où il avait élu domicile depuis lors. Dès leur plus jeune âge, ses parents lui ont inculqué, à lui comme à ses frères et sœurs, des valeurs solides : l’intégrité, la détermination et l’importance d’avoir un but dans la vie. Ce sont des valeurs qui l’ont guidé au quotidien. Il était fier de représenter la cinquième génération de l’entreprise familiale. Il se considérait chanceux de partager à la fois les défis quotidiens et la vision à long terme de l’entreprise avec son frère Jim. Malgré ses 50 ans de travail diligent, Robert disait souvent qu’il ne faisait que commencer. Robert était un entrepreneur aussi novateur qu’infatigable, qui a créé des entreprises prospères dans divers secteurs, dont notamment ceux des produits de papier, des produits alimentaires, des produits agricoles et du transport. Il croyait qu’il fallait bien faire les choses dès le départ et qu’aucun détail ne devait être laissé au hasard. Il incarnait une des devises préférées de son père : « Le meilleur engrais, ce sont les pas du fermier sur sa terre. » Il adorait être au cœur de l’action – dans les champs avec les agriculteurs, dans les usines et dans les terminaux avec les travailleurs. Il aimait particulièrement rencontrer les clients à leurs bureaux ou les accueillir dans les établissements de J.D. Irving. Quoi qu’il en soit de ses nombreuses réalisations, Robert était resté d’une admirable humilité. Il ne cherchait jamais la lumière des projecteurs et attribuait toujours le mérite d’un travail bien fait à son équipe. Il se souciait véritablement des employés de J.D. Irving. Il soulignait toujours leur passion, leur enthousiasme et le rôle de chacun et chacune dans la réussite de l’entreprise. Ces dernières années, il s’était lancé dans un nouveau chapitre riche de sens de sa vie, en travaillant aux côtés de ses enfants Meredith, Olivia et R.J., une source de très grande fierté qui lui procurait un profond sentiment d’accomplissement. Le hockey était une autre de ses passions. En 1996, il fondait le club de hockey des Wildcats de Moncton, ce qui lui a permis de conjuguer son amour du sport et de la compétition à son engagement envers le développement des jeunes et de la collectivité. Il était très fier des trois championnats de la LHJMQ que l’équipe avait remportés, en 2006, 2010 et 2025, ainsi que d’avoir accueilli le tournoi de la Coupe Memorial en 2006. Il ratait rarement une partie, toujours heureux de pouvoir encourager l’équipe avec enthousiasme. Il nouait des relations durables avec les joueurs. Il répétait souvent « Wildcat un jour, Wildcat toujours! » Robert était un fier Canadien et Néo-Brunswickois dont l’engagement envers sa collectivité n’a jamais fléchi. Il a été un acteur important de nombreuses campagnes de financement axées sur les soins de santé, dont récemment à titre de président de la campagne menée pour financer la construction de l’Unité d’obstétrique et de soins aux nouveau-nés Jean Elizabeth Saunders Irving de l’Hôpital de Moncton. Il était un fervent défenseur de la jeunesse, de l’éducation et de l’alphabétisation. Il a eu un impact durable en appuyant de nombreux organismes, et il a reçu diverses distinctions parmi les plus prestigieuses du Nouveau-Brunswick. Mentionnons le prix « Builder of Youth Lifetime Achievement » du Club des garçons et filles de Moncton (2011), le titre de membre Paul Harris décerné par les clubs Rotary du Grand Moncton (2014), le prix « Champion of Literacy » de la Literacy Coalition of New Brunswick (2016) et le rare prix Paul Harris décerné à l’occasion du 100e anniversaire de quatre clubs Rotary (2020). Il appuyait sans réserve son épouse Jill dans sa passion pour les sports équestres. En 2025, il a reçu la Médaille d’or de Canada Équestre, la plus prestigieuse distinction nationale de l’organisation. Robert a été intronisé au Panthéon des affaires du Nouveau-Brunswick, au Temple canadien de la renommée agricole et au Panthéon des affaires de l’Île-du-Prince-Édouard. Il a reçu l’Ordre de Moncton et l’Ordre du Nouveau-Brunswick en reconnaissance de son engagement communautaire sans faille, de sa générosité et de son apport exceptionnel à la province. Robert aimait le parfum de la victoire et prenait autant de plaisir à voir les gens réussir autour de lui. Il était un fils, un frère, un mari, un père, un grand-père, un beau-père et un oncle aimant pour ses 17 nièces et neveux. Sa disparition laisse un vide immense au sein de sa famille, de sa collectivité et de son équipe. Son héritage perdurera à travers ses enfants et les nombreuses vies qu’il a touchées. C’est avec un grand respect que son souvenir continuera de nous habiter. Il va énormément nous manquer. Les détails des funérailles seront annoncés ultérieurement.

Sags top Wildcats, end 32-year Cup drought

Brad Smith — Mon, 18 May 2026 04:20:49 +0000

The Chicoutimi Sagueneens ended a 32-year long Cup drought, topping the Wildcats 5-1 Sunday night in Chicoutimi to win the Gilles-Courteau Trophy as new QMJHL League champions. The Sags added two empty-netters in the third to seal the win and take the Final series 4-2. Caleb Desnoyers scored the Cats goal. Gabe Smith was named the the recipient of the Guy-Lafleur Trophy as the 2026 QMJHL Playoff MVP. Smith put up a Wildcats-record 33 points in the post-season, and tied the record for goals with 19. The clubs finished 1-2 during the regular season and the Wildcats repeated as regular season champions with 103 points. The Sags now represent the QMJHL at the upcoming Memorial Cup in Kelowna, BC starting late next week. The Wildcats won the Gilles-Courteau Trophy last season in Rimouski. The season-ending loss marks the end of the junior careers of goaltender Rudy Guimond, and forwards Preston Lounsbury & Alex Mercier. [BOX SCORE] Article by Marty Kingston Photo Bruno Girard

Big comeback puts Sags out front 3-2 in series

Brad Smith — Sat, 16 May 2026 01:57:00 +0000

The Sagueneens mounted an amazing third period comeback, scoring six goals Friday night at the Avenir Centre to nip the Wildcats 7-6 and take a 3-2 series lead back to Chicoutimi -- Game 6 goes Sunday night at 8pm. The Cats built up a 4-1 lead entering the third period but the Sags scored six goals, including an empty-netter, and 2 powerplay markers, to shock the sold-out crowd of 8,500 at the Avenir Centre. The Cats bounced back twice, pulling to within one goal late in the third on goals by Gavin Cornforth and Kuzma Voronin but time ran out. Gabe Smith and Teddy Mutryn each had a goal and two assists for Moncton with other goals to Niko Tournas on the powerplay and Rian Chudzinski. Tommy Bleyl added three assists. The Sags outshot the Cats 35-25, including 13-5 in the third. THREE STARS: ⭐️ Peteris Bulans CHI (3G, 1A) ⭐️⭐️ Liam Lefebvre CHI (1G, 1A) ⭐️⭐️⭐️ #22 RIAN CHUDZINSKI (1G, 1A) The Cats look to force a 7th and deciding game Sunday night in Chicoutimi with Game 6 at 8pm Atlantic time. Game seven, if needed, unfolds Tuesday night at 7pm at the Avenir Centre. Join Marty Kingston with all the action on FloHockey TV and INSPIRE FM WILDCATS RADIO at 105.1 FM [BOX SCORE] Article by Marty Kingston Photo: Daniel St. Louis

Wildcats Defensive Consultant Paul Boutilier passes

Brad Smith — Thu, 14 May 2026 23:59:15 +0000

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Defensive Consultant Paul Boutilier. Boutilier was a 1st Round Draft Pick of the New York Islanders in 1981 and played 329 games in the NHL with the Islanders, Boston Bruins, Minnesota North Stars, New York Rangers and Winnipeg Jets. He also played 2 seasons (1987-1989) with the Jets’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Moncton Hawks. Boutilier won a Stanley Cup with the New York Islanders in 1983. While a junior player, Boutilier was part of Canada’s first U20 World Junior Championship team in 1982. That year, he also won a President Cup, was named the top defensive player in the QMJHL and was on the league’s 1st All-Star team while playing for the Castors de Sherbrooke. Boutilier worked with the Saint John Sea Dogs in 2022 when they won the Memorial Cup and was an Assistant Coach when they won the QMJHL in 2017. He was also a Defence Development Specialist with the Nashville Predators and held various coaching positions with AHL, Canadian university and Team Canada U17 teams. In June 2024, Paul was hired as Defensive Consultant for the Wildcats. His contributions helped Moncton to a 2025 QMJHL Championship, an appearance at the 2025 Memorial Cup and back-to-back QMJHL regular season titles. Our thoughts are with Paul's family & friends at this time.

Nous sommes profondément attristés d'apprendre le décès de Paul Boutilier, consultant défensif. Boutilier avait été sélectionné au premier tour du repêchage par les Islanders de New York en 1981 et a disputé 329 matchs dans la LNH avec les Islanders, les Bruins de Boston, les North Stars du Minnesota, les Rangers de New York et les Jets de Winnipeg. Il a également joué deux saisons (1987-1989) avec les Hawks de Moncton, l’équipe affiliée aux Jets dans la Ligue américaine de hockey. Boutilier a remporté la Coupe Stanley avec les Islanders de New York en 1983. Lorsqu’il était junior, Boutilier a fait partie de la première équipe canadienne participant au Championnat du monde junior des moins de 20 ans en 1982. Cette année-là, il a également remporté la Coupe Président, a été nommé meilleur défenseur de la LHJMQ et a fait partie de la première équipe d’étoiles de la ligue alors qu’il jouait pour les Castors de Sherbrooke. Boutilier a travaillé avec les Sea Dogs de Saint John en 2022 lorsqu’ils ont remporté la Coupe Memorial et était entraîneur adjoint lorsqu’ils ont remporté le championnat de la LHJMQ en 2017. Il a également été spécialiste du développement défensif chez les Predators de Nashville et a occupé divers postes d’entraîneur au sein de la LAH, d’universités canadiennes et des équipes de Canada U17. En juin 2024, Paul a été engagé comme consultant défensif pour les Wildcats. Ses contributions ont aidé Moncton à remporter le championnat de la LHJMQ en 2025, à se qualifier pour la Coupe Memorial 2025 et à décrocher deux titres consécutifs de la saison régulière de la LHJMQ. Nos pensées vont à la famille et aux amis de Paul en ce moment difficile.

Friday night is a Game 5 fight

Brad Smith — Thu, 14 May 2026 15:26:40 +0000

A split in Moncton. A split in Chicoutimi. They can't split Game 5 on Friday night at the Den -- someone will pull ahead in this now Best-of-3 for the Cup! The Wildcats have home-ice advantage and we will put it to use with a WHITEOUT every home game! Former Cat/2025 QMJHL Champion Dyllan Gill and members of the U18AAA Moncton Flyers will be banging the big drum pre-game. The Wildcats lost Games 2 & 3 but figured it out for Game 4. Gabe Smith potted a pair and assisted on the winner. Smith has equaled Caleb Desnoyers' Playoff production from last season's championship run with 30 points -- and has at least 2 more games to go. Wildcats' Assistant Coach Kelsey Tessier also amassed 30 points while leading Moncton to the 2010 Cup. The Cats record for playoff points in a season is 32 by Philippe Dupuis in the 2006 Championship year. First-year Cats Teddy Mutryn (9G, 18A, 27 Pts) & Tommy Bleyl (6G, 19A, 25 Pts) have been key throughout the Cats march to the Championship. Through 4 games of the Final, Smith (4G, 2A), Teddy Mutyrn (2G, 3A) & Caleb Desnoyers (1G, 4A) have led the way. Evan Depatie & Niko Tournas have chipped in with a pair of big goals each. Chicoutimi have relied quite a bit on their blue line for offense this series. Defenders Alex Huang (5A), Jordan Tourigny (3G), and Peteris Bulans (1G, 2A) have been contributing at both ends of the ice. The Sags Playoff run, much like their regular season, is led by Q MVP Maxim Massé. The 2024 Anaheim 3rd-Rounder put up 102 points (51G, 51A) to lead the league and has 23 (6G, 17A) more in the Playoffs. The crease matchup has been what you'd expect with 2 top goalies trading spectacular saves while posting 3.06 (Guimond) & 3.07 (Beckman) GAAs. If not for a couple of weird goals each way, those numbers would be even smaller. There's not much to pick from in this series between the 1 and 2 seeds. "It's a fine line -- 2 really good teams," according to Wildcats Head Coach Gardiner MacDougall. Game 5 is Friday night! Wave your rally towel, wear white, make noise and help us REPEAT THE ROAR! Full series schedule:

Friday, May 8, 7pm - MON 5 CHI 2
Saturday, May 9, 7pm - CHI 3 MON 2
Tuesday, May 12, 8pm AT - CHI 5 MON 4 OT
Wednesday, May 13, 8pm AT - MON 4 CHI 3
Friday, May 15, 7pm @ Moncton
Sunday, May 17, 8pm AT @ Chicoutimi
Tuesday, May 19, 7pm @ Moncton *

It’s Playoff season and we’re ready to REPEAT THE ROAR! This year’s team has been as good — or even better — than last years Championship squad & it’s time to secure your seat for another Cup run. Save with Flex Tickets — more info here: 2026 Wildcats Playoff Ticket Packages. Arrive early & take advantage of 30 Minute Powerplay pricing at the Avenir Centre — $4 hot dogs, $3 Aquafina bottles of water, and $5 Moosehead Light & Alpine (355mL cans), taxes not included. The Avenir Centre doors open at 6pm — prices are in effect for 30 minutes after doors open for the game. Our 50/50 raffle has a $30,000 jackpot guarantee.

THINGS TO KNOW FOR FRIDAY:

The 50/50 raffle has a $30,000 Jackpot guarantee. Don’t forget to buy your raffle tickets online now or at the game. We accept cash, debit, Visa or Mastercard at the arena.
Access your season seats or flex tickets through your Ticketmaster Wildcats Account Manager.
Group tickets are available for every home game — Call 506-382-5555. Great seats at our best ticket prices for your group of 10+.
Celebrate your child’s birthday with Wild Willie & the Wildcats and take advantage of special group rates.
The jersey raffle is for a white game-worn, autographed #25 GUIMOND.
The Rogers Item of the Game is all baseball caps — Save 20%!
The Moose Light Ice Bar will be CLOSED. The lower seats in SEC 110 & 111 will be in place.

Photo: Daniel St. Louis