Attack Mourn the Loss of Joseph Holody

The Owen Sound Attack is mourning the loss of former Owen Sound Platers owner Joseph Holody, who passed away on Wednesday, December 27th at the age of 96.

Holody, along with the late Ray McKelvie, are responsible for bringing Major Junior hockey to the Scenic City, moving the then Guelph Platers to Owen Sound prior to the 1989-90 season.  The Holody family would eventually sell the team to a group of local business owners and supporters that operate the team today.

His name still resonates with current junior hockey fans. The Holody Trophy, named in honour of Joe, is awarded every year to the winner of the Ontario Hockey League’s Midwest Division.

Prior to moving the Platers to Owen Sound “Smoking Joe” as he was known, operated a very successful Tier II team in Guelph, before brining Major Junior hockey back to Guelph.  He along with his son Rob and head coach at the time Jacque Martin captured the Memorial Cup in 1986, the first for the City of Guelph since 1952.

The Attack extends thoughts and condolences to Joe’s family and friends.