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A new agreement with the Aléo Foundation for the QMJHL

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:13:05 +0000

Following a five-year initiative with the Molson Foundation that provided QMJHL players with personalized career guidance and transition services delivered by the Aléo Foundation, the QMJHL has decided to extend the partnership through a new three-year agreement directly with the Aléo Foundation. Over the past several seasons, after witnessing the significant positive impact these services have had on its athletes, the QMJHL determined it was essential to continue supporting players through the professional services offered by the Aléo Foundation. Led by Sophie Brassard, PhD, Director of Services and Scholarship Programs, the initiative includes:

Personalized follow-up services for all current and former QMJHL players;
Development of an educational plan integrated with each athlete’s sports career plan;
Support for transitions to higher levels of competition or retirement from sport;
Meetings with parents, hockey operations staff, billet families, and academic advisors regarding the services available to players;
Access to academic and career counseling;
Job interview preparation and mock interviews;
Assistance with résumé writing;
University admission support;
Presentations during annual rookie on-boarding days.

These services are available not only to current players, but also to all former QMJHL players throughout every stage of their transition journey. Athletes can benefit from them upon entering the league, throughout their time with their teams, as they move on to the next stages of their careers, and even years later, when transitioning from professional hockey to the workforce. "Player development and support are at the heart of our priorities. In 2024, we announced an increase to our scholarship program, and this partnership with the Aléo Foundation follows the same philosophy: providing our student-athletes with even greater educational and off-ice support."

— Mario Cecchini, QMJHL Commissioner

"For the Aléo Foundation, partnering with the QMJHL is a natural fit. As specialists in athlete transition services, our team, led by Sophie Brassard, is a logical ally in supporting the major transitions faced by these student-athletes. QMJHL players often leave home at a very young age and follow a path that differs greatly from that of their peers. Whatever their academic and athletic choices may be, we have solutions to offer them, a network to open to them, and specialized expertise to support them."

— Patricia Demers, Executive Director, Aléo Foundation

About the Aléo Foundation Founded in 1985, the Aléo Foundation’s mission is to help the greatest possible number of high-performance student-athletes from all backgrounds maximize their full potential and create a meaningful, lasting impact. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded more than $25 million in scholarships to over 5,000 student-athletes across Quebec. In addition to financial support, the Foundation provides lifelong services to all scholarship recipients, both during and after their athletic and academic journeys. Supporting these services is the Aléo Research Chair, which serves as a source of scientific findings and expertise available to the entire sports community. __

The Generations of Impact fundraising campaign aims to raise $6 million over three years to help bring the Foundation closer to its vision: a future in which high-performance student-athletes enrich society through their current and future leadership, both through their exceptional contributions and the inspiring examples they set.

To support : Generations of impact

QMJHL unveils 2026-27 regular season schedule

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:58:32 +0000

Junior hockey fans, mark your calendars! The QMJHL unveiled its 2026-27 regular season schedule today, which will get underway on Friday, September 18, with eight games on the slate.

View the full schedule here

The very first game of the season will feature the Saint John Sea Dogs taking on the Newfoundland Regiment at 7:00 p.m. local time (5:30p.m. ET).

On September 18, fans will also be treated to games in Cape Breton, Charlottetown, Baie-Comeau, Blainville-Boisbriand, Chicoutimi, Sherbrooke and Victoriaville.

The matchup in Boisbriand is expected to mark the QMJHL debut of 2026 first overall pick Thomas Boisvert with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.

The game in Chicoutimi will see the Saguenéens raise their 2026 Gilles-Courteau Trophy championship banner to the Centre Georges-Vézina rafters.

Only the Gatineau Olympiques and the Drummondville Voltigeurs will have to wait until Saturday, September 19, to begin their seasons. The Olympiques will host the Huskies, while the Voltigeurs will visit the Sherbrooke Phoenix.

Speaking of the Voltigeurs, they will play their first nine games on the road due to major renovations at Centre Marcel-Dionne. They will not return home until October 16.

The Shawinigan Cataractes, meanwhile, will have to wait until the installation of flexible boards—designed to enhance player safety—is completed at Centre Gervais Auto before playing there. As a result, they will not host a game before October 12.

The QMJHL will take a break for the holidays from December 19 to 27 before resuming play on December 28 with a full slate of nine games.

Fans will have to wait until January 28 to see a rematch of the 2026 Championship Final between the Saguenéens and the Wildcats, which will be played in Moncton.

The final day of the 2026-27 regular season, Saturday, March 20, will also feature a full nine-game schedule. The playoffs are expected to begin the following Thursday or Friday. - As a reminder, the QMJHL announced last week that it will stage eight interleague games with the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).

2026 CHL Awards | Massé named Player of the Year, Bleyl & Kearsey also honoured

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 17:56:32 +0000

Chicoutimi Saguenéens forward & Anaheim Ducks prospect Maxim 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

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, 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. Another historic winner was Moncton Wildcats 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. Among other award winners announced on Monday is Charlottetown Islanders captain Marcus Kearsey of the Charlottetown Islanders (QMJHL), the 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.

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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.

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).

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.

Jim Hulton named 13th head coach in Sea Dogs history

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 15:09:06 +0000

The Saint John Sea Dogs have named Jim Hulton the 13th head coach in franchise history, the team announced Monday. “We are thrilled to welcome Jim to the Saint John Sea Dogs,” said Sea Dogs president and general manager Trevor Georgie. “Jim and I entered the QMJHL in the same season, and over the years we’ve had a front-row seat to the work ethic and competitiveness of his teams. Year after year, his teams compete hard and his players exceed expectations. He is demanding and prepares young men for what it takes to play professional hockey through a culture built on accountability." "Beyond his experience, Jim is a true professional and a great person," added Georgie. "He shares our vision for the future of the Sea Dogs, and he wants to win just as badly as all of us do. We’re excited to welcome Jim and his family to Saint John and begin this next chapter together.” Hulton joins the Sea Dogs with more than 30 years of coaching experience, including two seasons as an assistant coach with the NHL’s Florida Panthers from 2008 to 2010. Originally from Kingston, Ont., Hulton spent the last 11 seasons with the Charlottetown Islanders, compiling a 426-356 record. He has coached in the final four three times and in the QMJHL finals once in 2022. A two-time QMJHL coach of the year and recipient of the CHL’s Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award in 2022, Hulton ranks 14th all-time in QMJHL history with 380 regular-season wins. He is the fifth-fastest coach to reach 300 wins in the QMJHL, accomplishing the feat in 513 games. On the international stage, Hulton has been part of Canada’s national junior team coaching staff at three IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships (2004, 2005 and 2019), winning a silver medal in 2004 and a gold medal in 2005.

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For the latest Sea Dogs news, follow the team on Facebook (Facebook.com/sjseadogs), Twitter (@SJSeaDogs), and Instagram (@SJSeaDogs).

QMJHL to play eight interleague games against OHL next season

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:58:32 +0000

The QMJHL will unveil its 2026-2027 schedule in the coming days, and to whet your appetite, it announced today that there will be eight interleague games against the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). That’s double the number from last season, when the Gatineau Olympiques and the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies faced off against the Ottawa 67’s and the Sudbury Wolves, respectively, in a home-and-away series. Those same two matchups will return this season, while the Val-d’Or Foreurs will face the North Bay Battalion, and the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada will go head-to-head with the Kingston Frontenacs, again in home-and-away series. The first interleague games will take place on Sunday, November 1, and the final game, between Sudbury and Rouyn-Noranda, will be played on Sunday, February 21. _ OHL vs QMJHL Interleague Games: Sunday, November 1, 2:00 p.m., Val-d’Or at North Bay Sunday, November 1, 2:05 p.m., Rouyn-Noranda at Sudbury Friday, November 20, 7:00 p.m., Ottawa at Gatineau Sunday, November 22, 2:05 p.m., Blainville-Boisbriand at Kingston Sunday, November 22, 3:00 p.m., Gatineau at Ottawa - Sunday, January 17, 3:00 p.m., Kingston at Blainville-Boisbriand Friday, January 22, 7:00 p.m., North Bay at Val-d'Or - Sunday, February 21, 4:00 p.m., Sudbury at Rouyn-Noranda *all local times

Finalists announced for 2026 CHL Awards

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 15:55:33 +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.

2026 QMJHL Entry Draft: a total of 216 players selected

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 17:18:50 +0000

The 2026 QMJHL Draft, presented by Fenplast, is now in the books, as 216 players were selected yesterday and today at the Scotiabank Centre in Halifax. Thomas Boisvert was selected first overall last night by the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies. Today, Éliot Faucher was the first player selected, at 19^th overall, as the Shawinigan Cataractes used their pick to acquire the defenseman. Faucher played for Stanstead College this past season. The Cataractes, who selected fourth and sixth overall yesterday, ultimately made five selections among the first 27 picks. Trois-Rivières Estacades forward Émile Guévin, selected 22^nd overall, and Séminaire St-François goaltender Simon-Olivier Guérard, selected 27^th, are also headed to Shawinigan. The host team, the Halifax Mooseheads, also made three second-round selections: Jack Cameron (20^th), Maveric Thisdelle (25^th) and John Queally (33^rd). Most of the drafted prospects were born in 2010 and will now look to earn their spot in the QMJHL at training camps, which will begin in August. View the complete list of draft selections here

QMJHL announces the winners of three administrative trophies

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 13:08:38 +0000

After announcing the finalists on Thursday, the QMJHL today revealed the winners of the Jean-Sawyer, John-Horman and Denis-Arsenault Trophies for the 2025-26 season. Jean-Sawyer Trophy (photo above) Marketing Team of the Year Winners: Chicoutimi Saguenéens Under the banner of their slogan, “Defending Our Colours,” the Saguenéens organization enjoyed a remarkable season both in the front office and on the ice. The team launched several initiatives, including a brand-new visual identity, a podcast, and new fan engagement tools through its mobile app. In addition, the organization added full-time graphic design and video production resources to remain connected with its fan base by sharing stories throughout the season. Finally, the Saguenéens’ marketing investments had a significant impact on sponsorship revenues, attendance figures, webcast quality, as well as ticketing and 50/50 revenues. Finalists: Québec Remparts and Newfoundland Regiment _ John-Horman Trophy Administrator of the Year Winners: Glenn Stanford and Ken O’Leary, Newfoundland Regiment In its inaugural season, the Regiment quickly established itself as one of the league’s model organizations, finishing among the QMJHL’s Top 4 teams in ticket sales, concession revenues, merchandise sales and sponsorship revenues. The Regiment also broke the attendance record for a first-year franchise, previously set in 1969-70, by averaging 5,234 fans per game. President Glenn Stanford and Vice-President of Business Operations Ken O’Leary provided outstanding leadership in the Regiment’s front office. Finalists: Serge Proulx, Chicoutimi Saguenéens, and Tommy Castonguay, Québec Remparts _ Denis-Arsenault Trophy Academic Advisor of the Year Winners: Dominique Bilodeau and Yvan Nolet, Gatineau Olympiques Finalists for a second consecutive year and winners for the first time, Dominique and Yvan provide players with structured, attentive and highly personalized support. Their proactive, solutions-oriented approach is reflected in their strong adaptability and constant willingness to innovate. They maintain solid relationships with educational partners and foster open, constructive communication with all stakeholders. Their professionalism is also evident in their consistent respect for deadlines and established processes. Finalists: Bruce Cluney and Hannah Woodworth, Charlottetown Islanders, and Janique Duval, Val-d’Or Foreurs

2026 QMJHL Draft | Recap of an eventful first round

Sat, 06 Jun 2026 02:50:32 +0000

One of the biggest productions on the QMJHL calendar, the first round of the 2026 QMJHL Draft presented by Fenplast, took place Friday night at Scotiabank Center in Halifax. In addition to the welcoming of 18 new faces to the QMJHL family, several interesting storylines unfolded as the kickoff to the 2026-27 campaign got underway. The Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, choosing first overall for the first time in franchise history via acquisition of the pick originally owned by the Baie-Comeau Drakkar, kicked things off by selecting Thomas Boisvert from Mount St. Charles Academy. The center from Trois-Rivieres, Quebec stood out at the Rhode Island prep school as a dynamic, well-rounded player who excelled at distributing the puck. Boisvert was considered the top prospect in this year’s draft by QMJHL Central Scouting. The Victoriaville Tigres, choosing second for the first time since 2022, stepped up to the podium next and took defenseman Vincent Boutet. While patrolling the blueline for the Blizzard du Seminaire St-Francois, the 6’1” Boutet brought a physical element while also remaining remarkably composed. The Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, Quebec product was identified as the top blueliner available for the 2026 QMJHL Draft. The third overall selection, originally held by the hometown Mooseheads, was dealt to the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, causing a dramatic reaction from the many fans in attendance. While the Mooseheads landed star center Mateo Nobert in exchange for goaltender Nicolas Gillham-Cirka and Amelio Santini, the Armada promptly used their newly acquired pick to choose forward Jacob McKinnon who was Boutet’s Blizzard teammate at Seminaire St-Francois last season. One of the top skaters available in the draft, McKinnon combined fantastic shot and pass selection and hockey sense to average well over a point per game in 2025-26. McKinnon will be facing at least one familiar foe from a nearby rival; he is the brother of Shawinigan Cataractes defenseman Noah McKinnon. A name with ties to the hometown team was called out when the Cataractes made the first of what would be two first round picks at number four. Pierre-Alexandre Lemieux spent last season mixing skill, physicality and vision with the Phenix du College Esther-Blondin. He’s also the nephew of former Mooseheads’ forward Alex Lemieux. The Victoriaville Tigres found themselves back at the podium for pick number five after a draft floor deal with the Saint John Sea Dogs that saw picks 14 and 17 head to the Port City. The Tigres proceeded to choose Jakob Royer from the Estacades de Trois-Rivieres. Known as a power forward at the U-18 level, he is the son of former Q defenseman Remi Royer. The Cataractes made Julien Bergeron the sixth pick of the Draft and kept the family connections rolling. Bergeron, a reliable forechecker and consistent offensive threat for the Grenadiers de Chateauguay is the nephew of former QMJHL player and coach Louis Robitaille. The biggest cheer of the night arose with pick number seven. The Mooseheads’ former star defenseman Justin Barron announced the selection of Emrik Menard. One of the most electrifying forwards available, Menard combined vision, instinct and strong work ethic in a successful though injury-shortened ’25-26 campaign. Another player who joins the ‘Q’ family tree, Emrik’s father, Carl, was a mainstay with Granby and St-Hyacinthe in the early 90’s. The eighth pick was part of a carousel of trades. Originally property of the Cape Breton Eagles, it was sent to Chicoutimi as part of a blockbuster that sent recent league champions Lucas Beckman, Liam Lefebvre and Alonso Gosselin to the Cape. The Sagueneens in turn dealt the selection to Rimouski who chose hometown boy Justin Gagnon, a 6’3” power forward who starred with the Albatros du College Notre-Dame last year. The Chateauguay connection continued with pick nine as the Sherbrooke Phoenix welcomed Damien Leduc into the fold. The 6’1” power forward brought a solid combination of physicality and discipline to the ice this past year. It was back to the trade floor at pick number ten. After the Val-d’Or Foreurs sent that pick to Rimouski, the Oceanic stepped up to the podium and selected the first Maritimer of the evening in Fall River, Nova Scotia forward Max Brien. A powerful skater who brings a presence to all three zones, Brien was a point-per-game star with the Dartmouth Steele Subaru last year. The first Newfoundland-born player came off the board with pick number thirteen. Damian Norris of Middle Cove will be going home to suit up with the Newfoundland Regiment after an explosive, high scoring season with Upper Canada College. Norris also enters the ‘Q’ with an NHL connection as the cousin of Buffalo Sabres forward Josh Norris. It was another merry-go-round at pick fourteen. The Saint John Sea Dogs would deal this selection to the Quebec Remparts. After brief stops with Chicoutimi and Baie-Comeau, the selection made its way back to Saint John, who broke the suspense by choosing Pictou Weeks defenseman Lawrence Williams. The top ranked Maritimer by the CSR, the mobile blueliner averaged over a point per game as a rookie at the U-18 level last year. The first goaltender as well as the first member of the current Telus Cup Champions was selected at pick fifteen. Zachary Lainesse used his quick hands and instinctive ability to battle shooters with the Chevaliers de Levis last year. Now, he represents the next big thing between the pipes for Rouyn-Noranda, who used the second of three first rounders on the top ranked netminder. The Huskies would cap off their first-round hat trick with the very next pick, acquiring two-way Magog forward Malik Tremblay at sixteen. Pick seventeen was a combination of championship pedigree and family ties. Enzo Roy, a mobile puck mover on the champion Levis squad was taken by Baie-Comeau, the Drakkar’s second pick of the night. His father is no stranger to the ‘Q’; Jonathan was a star forward with Drummondville and Moncton. Fittingly, one more trade was made to close out the night. Pick number 18 was dealt from Rimouski to Baie-Comeau. The Drakkar then used their third pick of the night to choose goaltender Nathan Boulanger. The rangy six-foot tall netminder also became the second player from College Esther-Blondin to be chosen on the evening. The 2026 QMJHL Entry Draft presented by Fenplast continues tomorrow with rounds 2-12 starting at 9am ET/10am AT, live on Eastlink and the QMJHL’s YouTube channel.

QMJHL and LHPS announce the creation of the Nicolas-Dutil Memorial Scholarship

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 17:00:32 +0000

The Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and the Preparatory School Hockey League (LHPS) are proud to announce the creation of the Nicolas-Dutil Memorial Scholarship, an initiative designed to honour the memory of referee Nicolas Dutil and to annually recognize young leaders who contribute to the development of hockey through their work as officials. A former QMJHL referee and member of the LHPS Board of Directors, Nicolas Dutil left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him. Known for his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to the game, he devoted a significant part of his life to serving hockey and supporting the development of young people. To preserve his legacy, two scholarships will be awarded annually to student-athletes who also serve as referees in minor hockey. Recipients will be selected based on their academic achievement, involvement in officiating, leadership, ethical standards, and positive contributions to the hockey community. The creation of this scholarship has been made possible through a partnership between the QMJHL and the LHPS, which share a common commitment to recognizing youth engagement and the vital role officials play in our sport. "Nicolas embodied the very best values of hockey. He firmly believed in youth development, the importance of education, and the essential role officials play in our game. This scholarship will ensure that his values and legacy continue to inspire future generations. We are extremely proud to partner with the LHPS to honour his memory in a meaningful and lasting way," said QMJHL Deputy Commissioner Martin Lavallée. For the LHPS—which will cease operations this summer and wished to leave a lasting legacy for young people—this initiative also serves as a tangible way to recognize the exceptional impact Nicolas Dutil had on youth. "Nicolas was a man of great compassion who believed in the potential of every young person. His commitment extended far beyond the boundaries of the rink. He understood the importance of developing good people before developing good athletes. Through this scholarship, we hope to inspire young people to follow his example and pursue their growth with passion, respect, and integrity," said Dave Horth, Vice-President of the LHPS. Details regarding the nomination process and the awarding of the Nicolas-Dutil Memorial Scholarship will be announced at a later date.