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Greyhounds Roster Reduced to Twenty-Eight

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Sat, 29 Aug 2026 02:52:40 +0000

Photo courtesy of Bob Davies

With the 2026-27 Ontario Hockey League pre-season less than forty-eight hours away, and the Soo Greyhounds roster has been set.

Earlier tonight Training Camp 2026 officially came to a close with Annual Luke WIlliams Memorial Red & White Game.

Following the game, Greyhounds’ General Manager Kyle Raftis and accompanying staff reduced the team’s active pre-season roster down to twenty-eight (28) players.

Remaining with the club are:

GOALIES (3) – David Vermirovsky, William Camputaro, Landon Miller

DEFENCEMAN (8) – Charlie Ashcroft, Evan Pahanich, Callum Croskery, Spencer Evans, Christopher Weiss, Jakub Winkelhofer, Harris Pangretitsch, Jaden Licastro

FORWARDS (17) – Alec Walker, Nolan Long, Brady Smith, Travis Hayes, Karsten Barbeau, Blake Arrowsmith, Cam Anderson, Doman Szongoth, Quinn McKenzie, Jordan Charron, Christopher Brown, Carson Andrew, Colin Fitzgerald, Trevor Daley Jr., Ryan Kaczynski, Noah Laus, Jeremy Martin

In the preceding days the following players were released/re-assigned to other programs through Development/Training Camp: Finn Gilbert, Alex Kyriacou, Gavin Hicks, Isaiah Allen, Jax Martin, Anthony Farace, Mac Chisholm, Tyler Bruce, James Elliott, Nick Soliman, Jake Hall, Nixon McCraig, Trent Enns, Vincent Arnone, Elijah Hayes, Matthew Taylor, Joshua Jodoin, Kaiden Harper, Cooper Matthews, Colton Huckson, Cullen Kerslake, Owen Kelly, Owen Bruining, Kalyn McQueen, Joshua Pinchak, Owen Stevens, Luke Storm, Calder Anderson, Justin Cossais, Vincent Bondy, Keaton Fitzpatrick, Gavin Killoran, Leo Parini, Landon Bellchamber, Evan Holl, Logan Coates, Nolan Burchett, Blake DeBoo, Nico Bossio, Michael Karadinovic, Adamo Ghantous, Zach Forer, Tyler Thorpe, Stephen Talosi, Landon Keefe, Ian Blair, Dreyon Boissoneau, Alex Tangelin, Thomas Hamilton, Evan Miller

Now the Greyhounds will now quickly enter exhibition play when they travel to Windsor, against the Spitfires, this Sunday, August 30. Game time at the WFCU Centre is 4 PM.

The team hits home ice for the first time, twice next weekend, when they host the Sudbury Wolves (Fri. Sept 4 - 7:07 PM) and Windsor Spitfires (Sat. Sept 5 - 4 PM).

Tickets for both and any Soo Greyhounds home game can be purchased at the SK Group Box Office 10 AM to 4 PM Monday to Friday or online at gflgardens.ca

Training Camp 2026

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Wed, 26 Aug 2026 03:59:10 +0000

After two days introducing draft picks and free agent invites to the Program, and the community of Sault Ste. Marie, 60 players remain in the Lock City as things shift to the team’s Main Training Camp 2026 opens.

TEAM ROSTER SHEET | DETAILED ROSTER INFORMATION

Fans are welcome to take part in any of the following on-ice activies over the next three days inside the GFL Memorial Gardens.

Wednesday, August 26 10:45 AM – Team Black Goalie Session 11 AM – Team Black Practice 12:30 PM – Team White Goalie Session 12:45 PM – Team White Practice 2:15 PM – Team Red Goalie Session 2:30 PM – Team Red Practice

Thursday, August 27 10 AM – Team White vs Team Black 2:30 PM – Team Red vs Team Black 7 PM – Team Red vs Team White

Friday, August 28 10:30 AM – Team White Practice 11:30 AM – Team Red Practice 7:07 PM – Annual Luke Williams Memorial Red-White Game ** Tickets for the the game are $5 + HST and can be purchased at the SK Group Box Office inside the GFL Memorial Gardens 10 AM to 4 PM Monday to Friday or online at www.gflgardens.ca

HOUND POUND SOUVENIR STORE The official merchandise store of the Hounds will be open during select times this week:

Wednesday, August 26 – 10 AM to 3 PM

Thursday, August 27 – 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Friday, August 28 – During game time

Can’t make it in person? Don’t forget you can order conveniently online, 24/7, 365 days-a-year at www.thehoundpound.ca

Development – Training Camp 2026 Week Details

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 15:48:30 +0000

The final week of August always means one important thing in Sault Ste. Marie - 'Hounds Hockey' is back and town and the ice is back inside the GFL Memorial Gardens.

And for 2026, this week will provide a unique and exciting situation to participants and fans alike.

This coming week (August 24 to August 28) will be split into two team events over the five days.

Development Camp 2026 will take place on Monday and Tuesday featuring a mix of forty-eight draft picks and free agent invites vying for a spot in the team’s Main Training Camp which runs Wednesday through Friday.

Friday caps off the week with the Luke Williams Annual Red & White Game.

On-ice events are OPEN to the general public and take place as follows:

DEVELOPMENT CAMP TEAM ROSTER SHEET | DETAILED ROSTER INFORMATION

Monday, August 24^th2:30 PM - Team White Goalie Session 2:45 PM - Team White Practice 3:45 PM - Team Red Goalie Session 4 PM - Team Red Practice

Tuesday, August 25^th10 AM - Team Red vs Team White 2:30 PM - Team Red vs Team White

MAIN TRAINING CAMP TEAM ROSTER SHEET | DETAILED ROSTER INFORMATION (will be posted on Tuesday evening)

Wednesday, August 26 10:45 AM - Team Black Goalie Session 11 AM - Team Black Practice 12:30 PM - Team White Goalie Session 12:45 PM - Team White Practice 2:15 PM - Team Red Goalie Session 2:30 PM - Team Red Practice

Thursday, August 27 10 AM - Team White vs Team Black 2:30 PM - Team Red vs Team Black 7 PM - Team Red vs Team White

Friday, August 28 10:30 AM - Team White Practice 11:30 AM - Team Red Practice 7:07 PM - Annual Luke Williams Memorial Red-White Game

** Tickets for the the game can be purchased at the SK Group Box Office inside the GFL Memorial Gardens 10 AM to 4 PM Monday to Friday or online at www.gflgardens.ca

We look forward to seeing all the fans of #OHLHoundPower rinkside next week in welcoming these players and their families to Sault Ste. Marie.

HOUND POUND SOUVENIR STORE The official merchandise store of the Hounds will be open during select times this coming week:

Monday, August 24 - 1 PM to 5 PM

Tuesday, August 25 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Wednesday, August 26 - 10 AM to 3 PM

Thursday, August 27 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM

Friday, August 28 - During game time

Can’t make it in person? Don’t forget you can order conveniently online, 24/7, 365 days-a-year at www.thehoundpound.ca

Futures Watch: Soo Greyhounds’ 2026 Draft Class and New Faces

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 13:22:43 +0000

As the 2026-27 OHL season approaches, the Soo Greyhounds are preparing for a new campaign. We spoke with General Manager Kyle Raftis about the club’s 2026 draft class and the new faces fans should keep an eye on heading into the upcoming season. 2026 Draft Class Revisit: Player Spotlight: Jaden Licastro Profile: 6’2”, 186lbs, left-shot defenceman Hometown: Vaughan, ON Birthdate: Mar 2, 2010 Drafted: 1st Round, 12th Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats (Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA): 32 GP, 11G, 19A, 30 PTS Selected 12th overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Jaden Licastro captained the Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA program this past season, recording 30 points (11-19–30) in 32 regular-season games to lead all Marlboros defencemen in scoring. “Jaden is a guy we were really excited to get at 12. He has great size already, a powerful, quick stride, plays with an edge and can defend. He was put in a lot of situations last year with the Marlboros – power play, penalty kill, big minutes – and you could see him continue to get better as the year went on. For us, when you’re trying to build your back end for the future, those are the types of players you want to bring in. He can skate, he can move the puck, he competes, and there’s still a lot of room for him to grow. We’re really excited to see what he can do at this level.” Player Spotlight: Alec Walker Profile: 6’4”, 174lbs, left-shot forward Hometown: Lithia, FL Birthdate: Apr 8, 2010 Drafted: 4th Round, 62nd Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats (Florida Alliance 15's): 55 GP, 34G, 34A, 68 PTS Selected 62nd overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Alec Walker recorded 68 points (34-34–68) in 55 games with the Florida Alliance 15’s program. The Florida native also represented Team Kelly at the USA Hockey Select 16 Player Development Camp, where he collected seven points (2-5–7) in four games. Walker was also ranked 13th on Elite Prospects’ final ranking of 2010-born American skaters. “Alec was a guy we really liked. When we got to our pick at 62, we didn't want to pass him up. He's got size, he can skate, he's got skill and the ability to get to the middle of the ice, all while making it look very smooth. When you can add a player with that skill set at that point in the draft, that's something you feel pretty good about being able to work with in the coming years. As Alec's strength and power continue to develop, he is a player we're excited to get into our program and see how quickly he can make that jump.” Player Spotlight: Nixon McCaig Profile: 6’2”, 168lbs, left-shot defenceman Hometown: Oakville, ON Birthdate: May 4, 2010 Drafted: 4th Round, 72nd Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats (Vaughan Kings U16 AAA): 33 GP, 5G, 7A, 12 PTS Selected 72nd overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Nixon McCaig recorded 12 points (5-7–12) in 33 games from the blueline with the Vaughan Kings U16 AAA program, helping the club capture the GTHL title. He also suited up for two games with the Ayr Centennials, scoring twice. “Nixon is a really smart defender. He's probably a guy people will look at and say he's more of a defensive defenceman, but there's more to his game than that. He can really move the puck, skate, and play hard. He's got good length, he competes, and he's reliable. For us, that's a really good foundation for a young defenceman. He's a guy who can defend, but can also help you get out of your end and move the puck up the ice. We're excited about having him in the group and watching him develop.” Player Spotlight: Jake Hall Profile: 6’1”, 161lbs, left-shot defenceman Hometown: Whitesboro, NY Birthdate: Mar 11, 2010 Drafted: 5th Round, 93rd Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats (Notre Dame HA 15U AAA): 33 GP, 5G, 7A, 12 PTS Selected 93rd overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Jake Hall recorded 35 points (6-29–35) in 46 games from the blueline with Notre Dame’s 15U program. He also competed with TPH Academy at this year’s OHL Cup, where he scored twice, before representing Team Orange at the USA Hockey Select 16 Player Development Camp and recording three assists in four games. “Jake is another big defender who we think has a lot of upside. He's got good size, he moves well, and there's some offensive ability there as well. He put up good numbers with Notre Dame, so there's already some confidence in his game with the puck. For us, when you get a young defenceman with that kind of size and offensive ability, you want to give him time and see where he can take it. We're excited about Jake and what he can become.” Player Spotlight: David Vermirovsky Profile: 6’5”, 181lbs, goaltender Hometown: Pardubice, CZE Birthdate: Jul 25, 2008 Drafted: 1st Round, 34th Overall (2026 CHL Import Draft) 2025-26 Stats (Dynamo Pardubice Jr.): 27 GP, 3.23 GAA, .904 SV% Selected with the Greyhounds’ first pick in the 2026 CHL Import Draft, David Vermirovsky joins the club from HC Dynamo Pardubice of the Czech U20 league. In 27 regular-season games, the 6-foot-5 netminder posted a 13-14 record alongside a 3.23 goals-against average and .904 save percentage. He followed that up with a strong postseason, recording a 2.72 goals-against average and .913 save percentage across 12 playoff appearances. “At 6 foot 5, he's obviously got the size, but what we liked was that he can move and he's competitive. He's got the ability to make some big saves with his athleticism. He's played against older players in Czechia and has international experience as well, so he's seen some pretty good hockey already. With his size and athleticism, he's a guy we're really looking forward to getting into our program and watching develop. After being passed over in the most recent NHL Draft, there's a chip on his shoulder to prove he can step into the OHL and show what he's capable of.” Other members of the 2026 class include:

PLAYER	POSITION	HOMETOWN	DOB	2025-26 TEAM	DRAFTED
Evan Miller	RW	London, ON	Mar 10, 2010	Huron-Perth Lakers U16 AAA	6th round, 113th overall
Jax Martin	LW	Foxboro, ON	Sep 29, 2010	Quinte Red Devils U16 AAA	7th round, 123rd overall
Joshua Jodoin	LW	Mississauga, ON	Apr 17, 2010	Mississauga Reps U16 AAA	7th round, 133rd overall
Matthew Taylor	C	Belle River, ON	Apr 19, 2010	Ajax-Pickering Raiders U16 AAA	9th round, 173rd overall
Owen Stevens	RD	Casselman, ON	Feb 27, 2010	Eastern Ontario Wild U16 AAA	10th round, 193rd overall
Leo Parini	RW	West Seneca, NY	Jul 2, 2010	Buffalo Jr. Sabres 15's	11th round, 213th overall
Calder Anderson	LW	Ohsweken, ON	Oct 13, 2010	Brantford 99ers U16 AAA	12th round, 233rd overall
Kaiden Harper	G	London, ON	May 14, 2010	Elgin-Middlesex Canucks U16 AAA	13th round, 253rd overall
Landon Keefe	LW	Oakville, ON	Aug 20, 2010	Vaughan Kings U16 AAA	14th round, 273rd overall
Landon Bellchamber	RW	Georgetown, ON	Jan 30, 2010	Credit River Capitals U16 AAA	15th round, 289th overall
Finn Gilbert	LD	Severn, ON	Jul 10, 2009	Ridley College Tigers	1st round, 12th overall (U18)
Josh Pinchak	LD	Mississauga, ON	May 06, 2009	Burlington Eagles U18 AAA	2nd round, 32nd overall (U18)
Melichar Kovar	RW	Pardubice, CZE	Apr 7, 2009	Pardubice Jr. B	2nd round, 95th overall (Import)

2026 New Faces: *Note: Player additions are current as of publication. Team signings remain ongoing, and this section will be updated throughout the offseason as additional players are signed and trades are completed. Player Spotlight: Trevor Daley Jr. Profile: 5’9”, 185lbs, left-shot forward Hometown: Dallas, TX Birthdate: Jul 11, 2009 Drafted: 3rd Round, 51st Overall (2025 OHL Priority Selection) 2025-26 Stats (U.S. National U17 Team): 4 GP, 0G, 1A, 1 PTS Originally selected in the third round (51st overall) of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Trevor Daley Jr. appeared in four games with the U.S. National U17 Team during the 2025-26 season. In his draft year, the Dallas, Texas native recorded 87 points (32-55–87) in 47 games with the Florida Alliance 15O AAA program. “Trevor is a really talented offensive player. He's got elite speed; he can make plays, and he has the ability to create something every time he gets the puck. He's a player that can pull you out of your seat with his creativity, vision and explosive speed. Obviously, there's a lot of attention that comes with his last name, but for us it's about Trevor and the player he is. With his skill package and being a constant student of the game, now it's about getting him into our environment, letting him continue to develop and helping him round out his game.” Player Spotlight: Doman Szongoth Profile: 6’1”, 194lbs, left-shot forward Hometown: Budapest, HUN Birthdate: June 8, 2008 Drafted: 1st Round, 20th Overall (2025 CHL Import Draft) 2025-26 Stats (KooKoo U20): 44 GP, 10G, 18A, 28 PTS Originally selected by the Greyhounds in the first round of the 2025 CHL Import Draft, Doman Szongoth joins the club after spending the 2025-26 season with KooKoo U20 in Finland, where he recorded 28 points (10-18–28) in 44 regular-season games. He was later selected by the Buffalo Sabres in the fifth round of the 2026 NHL Draft, becoming just the fifth Hungarian-born player selected in NHL Draft history. The 6-foot-1 forward has represented Hungary on the international stage for four consecutive seasons. His recent appearances include the IIHF World Junior Championship Division I, Group B, where he recorded seven points (3-4–7) in five games; the U18 World Championship Division I, Group A, where he led Hungary with five goals in five games; and the IIHF World Championship, where he scored once in seven games. At just 16 years old, Szongoth also debuted for Hungary’s senior national team during the 2024 Olympic Qualifying tournament. “Doman is an interesting player for us because he's already played a lot of hockey with pro-calibre players. He's played internationally at the World Championships, U18S, and other events where he's consistently played against older players, and he's shown what he can do at that level. There's going to be an adjustment coming over and playing in the OHL, like there is for any European player, but he's a competitive player with a skill set that should translate really well to how we want to play. We think there's a lot there to work with, with the combination of his shooting ability, his ability to transport pucks and how efficient he is down low.” Additional new faces include:

PLAYER	POSITION	HOMETOWN	DOB	2025-26 TEAM	DRAFTED/ACQUIRED
Christopher Weiss	D	Washington Township, MI	Jan 17, 2009	Oakland Jr. Grizzlies 16U AAA (USHL)	6th round, 123rd overall (2025)
Cam Anderson	RW	Lake Villa, IL	June 16, 2009	Chicago Reapers 16U AAA (USHL)	9th round, 170th overall (2025)
William Camputaro	G	North York, ON	May 23, 2008	St. Thomas Stars (GOHL)	4th round, 80th overall (2024)
Isaiah Allen	D	Milton, ON	Nov 23, 2008	Kirkland Lake Gold Miners (NOJHL)	10th round, 200th overall (2024)

With an established veteran core already in place, the Greyhounds have used the offseason to continue building around that group while adding depth for the future. A particular emphasis has been placed on the back end, with several defencemen selected throughout the 2026 draft class and additional depth added between the pipes. With a mix of experience and young talent taking shape, the Greyhounds will look to balance the present with the future as they prepare for the 2026-27 season. _____________________________________________________________________________________ FloHockey remains the exclusive streaming home of the Ontario Hockey League, delivering more than 680 regular-season games throughout the year, plus complete coverage of the OHL playoffs. Subscribers can stream games live or watch on demand from anywhere, ensuring they never miss a goal, save, or highlight during the 2026-27 season. Whether you’re following your hometown team or tracking prospects across the league, FloHockey provides comprehensive coverage of every OHL club all season long.

Shape A Future. Be Part Of The Journey. Greyhounds Billets Needed for 2026-27

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 19:16:23 +0000

The Soo Greyhounds Hockey Club is actively searching for families in the Sault Ste. Marie, ON area who are interested in opening their homes and hearts to provide a home-away-from-home for our players during the upcoming 2026-27 Ontario Hockey League season.

Local families open up their homes, allowing our players to join their families each year. They provide an integral part of our organization through their time, energy, and commitment to ensure that our players are able to live comfortably and are fit to compete each and every night.

Billeting can be a very exciting and rewarding experience, and a chance to make cherished memories. In fact, many families still keep in contact with their players as they move through the ranks of college and professional hockey or the business world.

The team strives to match each player’s personality and backgrounds with compatible billet homes. Furthermore, each potential billet is carefully screened and presented with our team’s expectations of the billet family.

Hounds players range in age from 15 to 20 years of age.

If you and your family would be interested in becoming part of the Soo Greyhounds Billet Program today, an application form can be found at:

https://chl.ca/ohl-greyhounds/billet-family-application/

Questions can be directed to Gerry Liscumb Jr. (Director of Public Relations, Team Services & Radio Broadcaster) via e-mail gerry@soogreyhounds.com or phone 705-574-0087.

Buffalo Sabres Prospect, Doman Szongoth Joins Greyhounds

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 17:45:38 +0000

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON- Soo Greyhounds General Manager Kyle Raftis announced today the signing of an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement by forward Doman Kristof Szongoth. He was originally selected by the Greyhounds in the 1st Round of the 2025 CHL Import Draft.

This past June, the Budapest, HUN native was selected in the 5th Round of the NHL Draft by the Buffalo Sabres - becoming only the 5th Hungarian national drafted to the league.

"Doman is a player who brings a complete package to our hockey program. He plays a strong two-way game, has excellent positional intelligence, and consistently wins pucks in contested areas. His experience playing against men at a young age, including representing Hungary at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, where he led all Hungarian forwards in time on ice, speaks volumes about his maturity and competitiveness," began Raftis. "Offensively, Doman has a dangerous and accurate shot that makes him a threat from anywhere in the offensive zone, and he already possesses the frame to compete physically. More importantly, he has demonstrated a willingness to embrace difficult minutes and contribute in all situations," he added before ending with, "We believe his work ethic, character, and experience competing in professional environments since the age of 16 will allow him to make a significant impact with our team while continuing his development both on and off the ice. We're excited to have Doman make the jump to Sault Ste. Marie and look forward to helping him take the next step in his hockey journey." Szongoth, 18, played the 2025-26 season with KooKoo U20 of the Finland SM-sarja league where he recorded 10 goals and 18 assists in 44 regular season games. The 6.01, 194 lb forward has represented his home country for four straight seasons on the International Stage including last year’s IIHF World U20 Championship Division 1 Group B (3G, 4A in 5GP), team’s leading scorer at the U18 World Championship Division 1, Group A (5G in 5GP) and Ice Hockey World Championship (1G in 7GP). Notably, at the age of 16, Doman debuted for Hungary’s senior team at the 2024 Olympic Qualifying tournament. “Soo is a great organization and a great team. I’m really happy I can continue my development here. I look forward for the upcoming season and I will help the team best as i can. I’m so excited to play front of you and be part of the Hounds family,” said Szongoth.

Hounds Sign Import Goaltender David Vermirovsky

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 14:35:59 +0000

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON – Soo Greyhounds General Manager Kyle Raftis announced today that the club's first-round selection in the 2026 CHL Import Draft, David Vermirovsky, has agreed to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement with the Greyhounds. Vermirovsky played the 2025-26 season with HC Dynamo Pardubice in the Czech U20 league. "We're excited to welcome David to the Greyhounds organization," said Raftis. "David has all the tools to become a top-end goaltender and has already gained valuable experience playing against top competition in Czechia and on the international stage. We believe he has the work ethic, athleticism, and character to make a significant impact with our team, and we're looking forward to helping him continue his development in Sault Ste. Marie." In 27 regular season games, he posted a 13-14 record while recording a 3.23 goals-against average and a .904 save percentage. He followed that with a strong playoff performance, going 5-7 with a 2.72 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage. Internationally, Vermirovsky has represented Czechia at the U18 level. Born in Córdoba, Spain, the 6-foot-5, 181-pound goaltender has spent most of his life developing in Czechia. He was also ranked as the No. 3 European goaltender on NHL Central Scouting's Mid-Term Rankings for the 2026 NHL Draft. "I'm very honoured to be selected by the Soo Greyhounds and I can't wait to start the season here," said Vermirovsky. "I'll do everything I can to help the team win, and I'm excited to meet the fans and be part of the Greyhounds family."

Patrick Jarrett Joins Hometown Hounds as Assistant Coach

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 13:08:55 +0000

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON- Soo Greyhounds General Manager Kyle Raftis is pleased to announce this morning that Patrick Jarrett will joining the club as Assistant Coach.

He will accompany Head Coach Drew Bannister and newly-appointed Assistant Coach Steve O’Rourke in rounding out the team’s on-bench staff.

"We're thrilled to welcome Patrick to our coaching staff. Patrick brings a unique combination of playing, coaching, and player development experience that will be a tremendous asset to our group,” started Raftis.

“Patrick's unique path as a player and coach has given him the ability to relate to and connect with our players while understanding what it takes to help them continue to grow both on and off the ice. Early in our conversations, what stood out most was his passion for developing players at all different stages of their junior careers and his attention to the small details of the game. He'll be a major resource for our players on a day-to-day basis and will have a significant impact on our team as a whole, whether it's on special teams or at 5-on-5,” he continued before concluding,

“Equally important, Patrick is someone who understands what it means to represent both the Greyhounds and the City of Sault Ste. Marie. We're excited to welcome Patrick and his family back to the Soo and know he'll make a tremendous impact on our program."

The 42-year old Jarrett most recently was Head Coach for two seasons of the Palmyra Black Knights 16U & 18U based out of Annville, Pennsylvania.

From 2021 to 2024 he held the same position with the Skipjacks Hockey Academy 16U & 18U (York, Pennsylvania).

Within the OHL, Patrick was previously a member of the Hamilton Bulldogs staff as Assistant Coach for two seasons (2018-2020).

The Sault Ste. Marie, ON native’s playing career was highlighted by being selected 1st overall of the 2000 OHL Priority Selection to the Mississauga IceDogs in 2000 before later being drafted to the NHL’s Nashville Predators followed by a thirteen-year professional career in Europe.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be coming home to Sault Ste. Marie. This community shaped me, and it’s hard to believe it’s been 26 years since I left to play in the OHL. To return now as an Assistant Coach for the Soo Greyhounds is truly a full-circle moment. My wife, Tanya, and our two daughters are excited to make the Soo our home and be closer to family,” began Jarrett.

He then added, “The Greyhounds are one of the most historic and respected organizations in junior hockey, and I grew up idolizing this team. It’s an incredible honour to have the opportunity to help develop the next generation of Greyhounds. I look forward to sharing the experiences I’ve gained throughout my playing and coaching career and helping our players become the best versions of themselves—not only as hockey players, but as young men. I’m grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to get to work.”

Bannister named to Canada’s coaching staff for 2027 World Juniors

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 18:26:13 +0000

Head coaches from each of the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) will serve as assistants alongside Team Canada head coach and former OHL executive Misha Donskov

The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) is pleased to congratulate Brad Lauer (Spokane Chiefs / WHL), Drew Bannister (Soo Greyhounds / OHL), and Jim Hulton (Saint John Sea Dogs / QMJHL) on being named assistant coaches with Canada’s National Junior Team for the 2027 IIHF World Junior Championship in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta.

Representing each of the CHL’s Member Leagues, Lauer, Bannister, and Hulton will serve alongside fellow assistant coach and WHL alumnus Ryan Getzlaf, as well as head coach Misha Donskov, a former OHL executive who was appointed to the position by Hockey Canada in April.

The coaching staff will also include goaltending coach Dan De Palma (Kamloops Blazers / WHL) and video coach Adam Filmon, with additional support from James Emery, Hockey Canada’s director of performance analysis.

“We are excited to officially announce our coaching staff for Canada’s National Junior Team and bring together a group of experienced, accomplished leaders who are deeply committed to player development and winning on the international stage,” said Alan Millar, general manager of Canada’s National Junior Team. “Misha, Drew, Ryan, Jim, Brad and Dan each bring a unique set of skills and perspectives, along with extensive experience at the professional, Major Junior and international levels. We are confident this staff will create an environment that allows our players to succeed and proudly represent Canada as we prepare for the World Juniors.”

Donskov, from London, Ontario, spent five seasons in the OHL, serving as an assistant coach with the London Knights from 2009-12 before spending two seasons as associate coach of the Ottawa 67’s from 2012-14. He added assistant general manager duties during his final season in London and helped the Knights capture the 2012 OHL championship. Donskov later spent four seasons as director of hockey operations with the Vegas Golden Knights before serving more than three years as an assistant coach from 2020-23 and winning the Stanley Cup in 2023. Most recently, he spent two seasons as an assistant coach with the Dallas Stars from 2023-25.

Donskov, Hockey Canada’s vice-president of hockey operations and men’s national teams coach, made his international head-coaching debut at the 2026 IIHF World Championship after expanding his role with the organization in April. He returns to the World Juniors for a second consecutive season after helping Canada earn bronze as an associate coach in 2026. Internationally, Donskov won gold as an assistant coach at the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off, the 2016 IIHF World Championship and the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, as well as in other coaching roles at the 2015 World Juniors and 2015 IIHF World Championship. He also won the 2019 Spengler Cup as director of hockey operations and assistant coach.

Lauer, from Humboldt, Saskatchewan, returns to Canada’s National Junior Team for a second consecutive year after helping the country earn bronze as an assistant coach at the 2026 World Juniors. He recently completed his second season as head coach of the WHL’s Spokane Chiefs, having guided the club to the 2025 WHL Championship Series. Lauer previously spent four seasons as head coach of the Edmonton Oil Kings, winning the 2022 WHL Championship and the Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy as WHL Coach of the Year in 2019-20, following five seasons as an assistant coach with the Kootenay ICE. His professional experience includes roles as an assistant coach with the Winnipeg Jets, Tampa Bay Lightning, Anaheim Ducks and Ottawa Senators, as well as the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch and Milwaukee Admirals. As a player, Lauer spent his junior career with the Regina Pats from 1983-86, recording 165 points in 189 games.

Bannister, from Belleville, Ontario, was named head coach of the OHL’s Soo Greyhounds for the second time on June 22 after previously leading the club from 2015-18. Over three seasons, he recorded 136 regular-season victories, won two OHL West Division titles and guided the Greyhounds to the 2018 OHL Championship Series. His first tenure culminated in a historic 2017-18 campaign in which the Greyhounds posted a franchise-record 55-7-3-3 record, earning Bannister the Matt Leyden Trophy as OHL Coach of the Year and the CHL’s Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award. He most recently served as head coach of Canada’s National Men’s Under-18 Team at the 2026 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship after serving as head coach of the St. Louis Blues during the 2024-25 season and spending more than two seasons leading the AHL’s Springfield Thunderbirds. Internationally, Bannister served as an assistant coach with Canada’s National Men’s Team at the 2025 Spengler Cup and helped Canada win gold as an assistant at the 2017 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup. As a player, he helped the Greyhounds win consecutive OHL championships in 1991 and 1992 before capturing the Memorial Cup in 1993, and also won gold with Canada at the 1994 World Juniors.

Hulton, from Wolfe Island, Ontario, was named head coach of the QMJHL’s Saint John Sea Dogs last month following 11 seasons as head coach of the Charlottetown Islanders. 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 victories and was the fifth-fastest coach to reach 300 wins, accomplishing the feat in 513 games. He has represented Canada six times during his coaching career, helping the country win gold at the 2005 World Juniors and silver in 2004 as an assistant coach before returning to the tournament in the same role in 2019. Hulton also spent 10 seasons coaching in the OHL with the North Bay Centennials, Mississauga IceDogs, Belleville Bulls, Kingston Frontenacs and St. Michael’s Majors, as well as two seasons as an assistant coach with the NHL’s Florida Panthers. As a player, he suited up in the OHL with the Kitchener Rangers and Kingston Raiders.

Getzlaf, from Regina, Saskatchewan, is a WHL alumnus who spent four seasons with the Calgary Hitmen from 2001-05. The longtime Anaheim Ducks captain won gold with Canada at the 2005 World Juniors after earning silver at the tournament in 2004. He also captured Olympic gold in 2010 and 2014 and won the Stanley Cup with Anaheim in 2007.

De Palma, from Kamloops, British Columbia, is entering his 18th season as goaltending coach of the WHL’s Kamloops Blazers. He has served in the same role with Canada at each of the past two World Juniors and has won two IIHF U18 Men’s World Championship gold medals and a Hlinka Gretzky Cup title.

Several additional CHL representatives will support Canada’s National Junior Team:

Assistant general manager Dave Brown (Erie Otters / OHL)
Athletic therapist Mike Burnstein (Vancouver Giants / WHL)

Canada’s National Junior Team will begin preparations for the 2027 IIHF World Junior Championship at the World Junior Summer Showcase, which will be held July 26-Aug. 1 in Windsor, Ontario. Canada will be joined at the event by Finland, Sweden and the United States.

The 2027 IIHF World Junior Championship will be held Dec. 26, 2026, through Jan. 5, 2027, in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Junior Team, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along via social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Greyhounds Name Steve O’Rourke Assistant Coach

Gerry Liscumb Jr. — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 15:54:38 +0000

SAULT STE. MARIE, ON- Soo Greyhounds General Manager Kyle Raftis and Head Coach Drew Bannister announced today the addition of Steve O’Rourke to the club’s hockey operations as Assistant Coach.

“We're excited to add Steve to our staff. He brings a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience that will be a great addition to our group,” started Raftis.

“As a player, coach, and through his work in player development, Steve has worked at both the junior and professional levels. What stood out most throughout the process was his passion for teaching and developing players. He's a great hockey mind and will be a tremendous resource for our defensemen and our entire team,” he added before concluding with,

“Equally important, he's someone we feel will fit in really well with the culture we're continuing to build here in Sault Ste. Marie. We're excited to welcome Steve to the Greyhounds and are looking forward to getting to work.”

The 51-year old native of Summerland, BC joins the Greyhounds after serving as Head Coach of the Seattle Torrent (Professional Women’s Hockey League) in its inaugural season.

Prior to that O’Rourke more recently spent part of three seasons with the Oshawa Generals as Associate Coach and Head Coach after over 13 years in Western Canada coaching at the Major Junior, Junior A and AHL levels.

Steve is also the founder and operator of Dual Hockey Training - an elite summer development program that integrates skill, sport science and wellness to players from junior, collegiate and pro levels.

“I am excited to join the Soo Greyhounds as an Assistant Coach. The Greyhounds have built an outstanding reputation as one of the OHL’s premier organizations, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of it. I look forward to working alongside Kyle Raftis and Drew Bannister, two people I have tremendous respect for, and contributing to an environment that helps young players develop both on and off the ice,” began O’Rourke.

“The opportunity to work with such a talented group of players is one that I am truly excited about. I can’t wait to get to Sault Ste. Marie, build relationships, and help our players and team improve every day. I would like to thank Kyle, Drew, and the Greyhounds organization for their trust and confidence. I’m looking forward to getting started,” he concluded.