Explore the OHL: Soo Greyhounds
The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is home to 20 teams—17 in Canada and three in the United States. Shifting the focus beyond hockey operations, the OHL aims to highlight the distinctiveness of each member club. The League will showcase how current players and future prospects embrace their junior hockey careers within their respective cities, emphasizing the unique qualities that define each team and its community.
HISTORY
Sault Ste. Marie, known as the Soo, is a vibrant city in Ontario, and ranks as the third-largest in Northern Ontario after Sudbury and Thunder Bay. Nestled on the St. Mary’s River along the Canada–US border, it sits opposite Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The two cities are linked by the Sault Ste. Marie International Bridge. The area also offers excellent access to fishing, hiking, and camping. Since entering the OHL in the 1972-73 season, the Greyhounds have proudly raised numerous banners at GFL Memorial Gardens. The program boasts an impressive history, including 14 division titles, three playoff championships, and a Memorial Cup victory.
EDUCATION
Current Soo Greyhounds high school players attend Superior Heights Collegiate & Vocational School. The program is known for its off-ice success, producing four academic award winners over the years. Sault Ste. Marie is also home to Algoma University, offering post-secondary education opportunities for older players.
Bobby Smith Trophy (Scholastic Player of the Year)
2017-18: Barrett Hayton, 2012-13: Darnell Nurse, 1996-97: Jake McCracken
Roger Neilson Memorial Award (Top Academic Post-Secondary Student)
2013-14: Patrick Watling
ARENA
The GFL Memorial Gardens is a 4,928-seat sports and entertainment center in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, opened on September 29, 2006, replacing the demolished Sault Memorial Gardens. Built next door to its predecessor, the arena preserved the iconic Memorial Tower, now part of “Memorial Square,” the block surrounding the facility. Memorial Square honors the site’s history, featuring the refurbished tower and the Sault Ste. Marie Walk of Fame, with markers celebrating local individuals’ significant contributions.
NOTABLE ALUMNI
Since joining the OHL in 1972, the Greyhounds have established themselves as a premier producer of professional hockey talent. They have had players selected in the NHL Draft for 12 consecutive seasons, with many going on to impactful NHL careers, including Wayne Gretzky, Ron Francis, and Joe Thornton. Beyond the NHL, numerous Greyhounds alumni have excelled in minor pro leagues across North America and elite European leagues. The organization also values personal development, with former players achieving success in law, medicine, and other professional fields through team-supported scholarships. For a complete list of Greyhounds alumni, click here.
BILLET LIFE
The Greyhounds are supported by 22 dedicated billet families for the 2024-25 season whom provide a safe and stable environment for the players. Billet families are a key part of the Greyhounds organization, providing board, meals, support and other necessities.
COMMUNITY APPEARANCES
The Greyhounds actively engage in community initiatives throughout the season, including the Bell Celebrity Skate, a family-friendly event where local kids skate alongside players. This year’s event raised a record $138,000, supporting Rotary Youth Projects and local teams. Additionally, the team makes bi-weekly visits to the Sault Area Hospital, ARCH Hospice, along with local retirement and assisted living facilities.
WHERE TO EAT
The Soo Greyhounds recommend two standout dining spots for visitors: Aurora’s Westside and Sandro’s Family Restaurant. Aurora’s Westside is renowned for its inviting atmosphere and classic Italian dishes, making it a favorite among locals. Sandro’s Family Restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly experience, serving meals that highlight traditional Italian and Canadian cuisine. These local gems provide a taste of Sault Ste. Marie’s hospitality, making them ideal stops for anyone exploring the area.
NOTABLE LANDMARKS
Sault Ste. Marie is home to several historic and scenic landmarks, including the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, a key waterway for industrial trade, and the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site, showcasing the area’s pioneer heritage. Visitors can also explore the Sault Ste. Marie Boardwalk, offering stunning waterfront views, and the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, which celebrates Canada’s aviation history. Bellevue Park provides a peaceful outdoor space, while Hiawatha Highlands offers year-round recreational activities.
STANDOUT SOO FACTS
The Soo is known for its rugged Great Lakes coastlines, the Canadian Shield mountains, and tons of rivers and lakes that give it a unique landscape. The city is also famous for its pristine beaches and heavy snowfall in the winter, making it a great place to visit year-round. Known as a ‘Steel City,’ Sault Ste. Marie has a strong history in steel production. Plus, the city has a memorable food scene with locally-owned restaurants that showcase its diverse flavors.
