Windsor Spitfires - Feed

JR Grant Named to Hockey Canada U18 Hlinka Gretzky Cup Staff

Nicholas Welsh — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:10:11 +0000

WINDSOR, ON. – The Windsor Spitfires organization continues to shine on the national stage, with a key member of the club earning a prestigious appointment from Hockey Canada for the 2026 U18 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. J.R. Grant, the Spitfires' Head Equipment Manager, has been a fixture in Windsor's dressing room since 2008 and continues to be recognized for his dedication and professionalism. Grant has been named Equipment Manager for Hockey Canada's National Men's Summer Under-18 Team at the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Canada's National Men's Summer Under-18 Team will compete in Edmonton from Aug. 3-8. Canada opens the tournament on Aug. 3 at 5 p.m. MT before facing Slovakia on Aug. 4 and Sweden on Aug. 5 to conclude the preliminary round. The tournament wraps up with the medal games on Aug. 8. Prior to the tournament, Canada's National Men's Summer Under-18 Team will hold a training camp at NAIT Arena in Edmonton from July 27-30. The camp will include practices and a pre-tournament game against Sweden on July 30. Canada will also face Czechia on Aug. 1 as part of the Hlinka Gretzky Cup pre-tournament schedule. Congratulations, JR!

Thank You, Nick Welsh!

Nicholas Welsh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:04:17 +0000

WINDSOR, ON. The Windsor Spitfires are proud to announce that Nick Welsh has accepted an exciting new opportunity in professional sports. During his time with the Spitfires, Nick played an integral role within the organization's Media Relations and Communications department. He helped tell the story of the team through game coverage, feature content, social media, and digital communications, while building strong relationships with local and national media. Beyond his communications responsibilities, Nick also led the club's community outreach initiatives, helping strengthen the connection between the Spitfires and Windsor-Essex through school visits, charitable events, community appearances, and fan engagement programs. His passion, professionalism, and commitment to the organization made a lasting impact both on and off the ice. "Nick's dedication, versatility, and team-first attitude have left a lasting mark on the Windsor Spitfires organization. Whether working behind the scenes in communications, representing the club throughout the community, or contributing on the hockey operations side, Nick approached every opportunity with professionalism and enthusiasm,” commented Director of Business Operations, Steve Horne. This past season, Nick worked simultaneously as the Communications Manager and the role of Video Coach within the Hockey Operations department, embracing a new challenge and quickly becoming an important part of the coaching staff. He played a key role in video preparation, coach's challenges, and player development while gaining valuable experience during a season that saw the Spitfires advance to the Western Conference Final. General Manager Bill Bowler reflected on Nick's versatility in hockey operations, saying: "We are happy for Nick and his new endeavor; Nick was a professional and excelled in his position as our video coach. He immediately gelled with our entire coaching staff, and we look forward to watching his career progress." The Windsor Spitfires thank Nick for his years of hard work and wish him nothing but success as he begins this exciting new chapter. “I am very grateful for my time as a Spitfire” Nick Welsh said. “It has been an honour to serve the community and building meaningful stories that Spitfire fans could enjoy. I would like to thank Steve Horne and Bill Bowler for giving me a chance and helping me grow all those years ago and Greg Walters for giving me the opportunity to coach last year. Once a Spitfire, always a Spitfire.” Congratulations, Nick, and all the best!

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Windsor Spitfires Announce 2026 Preseason Schedule

Nicholas Welsh — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:02:05 +0000

WINDSOR, ON. – The Windsor Spitfires, in conjunction with the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), have announced their 2026 preseason schedule. Continuing an initiative launched two years ago to further engage with the local community, the Spitfires will once again bring preseason hockey to community arenas across Essex County. The club will play four preseason games this year, including two contests at neutral venues. The preseason begins on Sunday, August 30^th, when the Spitfires host the Soo Greyhounds at the WFCU Centre. Puck drop is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. The teams will meet again on Saturday, September 5, as Windsor travels to Sault Ste. Marie to face the Greyhounds at GFL Memorial Gardens. Game time is 4:00 p.m. On Friday, September 11, the Firebirds will host the Windsor Spitfires at the Leamington Community Recreation Centre, home of the Leamington Flyers. Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m. The preseason concludes on Saturday, September 12, when the Spitfires host the Firebirds at the Vollmer Complex in LaSalle. Home of the Spitfires affiliate, the LaSalle Vipers. Game time is 7:00 p.m. 2026 Preseason Schedule Soo @ Windsor - Sunday August 30 4:05 PM - WFCU Centre Windsor @ Soo - Saturday September 5 4:00 PM - GFL Memorial Gardens – Soo Windsor @ Flint - Friday September 11 7:00 PM - Leamington Community Centre – Leamington Flint @ Windsor - Saturday September 12 7:00 PM - Vollmer Complex - LaSalle

Spitfires select Russian forward Bogdan Yakushevsky in 2026 CHL Import Draft

Nicholas Welsh — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 16:16:33 +0000

WINDSOR, ON. The 2026 Canadian Hockey League Import Draft was held today and the Spitfires made one selection with the 46^th overall pick, drafting 2009-born Russian forward Bogdan Yakushevsky. Yakushevsky, from Russia, stands at 6’0’’ and spent the 2025-26 season with the CSKA Moskova U17 and U18 Teams as well as Krasnaya Armiya Moskva in the MHL. Over the 3 competitions Bogdan played in 63 games and recorded 78 points (36 goals and 42 assists). He is eligible for the 2027 NHL Entry Draft. Bogdan has also suited up for Team Russia, in 2024-25 he played for both the U16 and U17 teams and appeared in 12 games and collected 14 points (5 goals, 9 assists). Welcome to the Spitfires, Bogdan!

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For media inquiries, please contact: Nick Welsh | Manager of Communications, Media, and Community Relations | Windsor Spitfires Hockey Club WFCU Centre 8787 McHugh St. Windsor ON N8S 0A1 W. 519-254-5000 ext 221 Email: Social@windsorspitfires.com

12 Windsor Spitfires Players invited to NHL Development Camps

Nicholas Welsh — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 19:51:19 +0000

Windsor, ON – Following the conclusion of the 2026 NHL Draft, 12 members of the Windsor Spitfires' 2025-26 roster have received invitations to NHL Development Camps.

Fresh off being selected in the 2026 NHL Draft, Ethan Belchetz (Utah Mammoth), Andrew Robinson (Edmonton Oilers) and Caden Harvey (Edmonton Oilers) will attend development camp with their respective NHL clubs.

Joining them are six previously drafted Spitfires: Jakub Fibigr (Seattle Kraken), Liam Greentree (New York Rangers), Jack Nesbitt (Philadelphia Flyers), AJ Spellacy (Chicago Blackhawks), Michal Svrcek (Detroit Red Wings) and Nathan Villeneuve (Seattle Kraken).

Cole Davis, Wyatt Kennedy and Conor Walton also earned free-agent invitations to NHL Development Camps. Davis will attend with the Colorado Avalanche, while Kennedy and Walton will participate in the Vegas Golden Knights' camp.

In total, 12 Windsor Spitfires will attend development camps with nine different NHL organizations. The Edmonton Oilers, Seattle Kraken and Vegas Golden Knights each have two Spitfires participating.

2026 NHL Development Camp Invitees

Chicago Blackhawks

AJ Spellacy

Colorado Avalanche

Cole Davis

Detroit Red Wings

Michal Svrcek

Edmonton Oilers

Caden Harvey
Andrew Robinson

New York Rangers

Liam Greentree

Philadelphia Flyers

Jack Nesbitt

Seattle Kraken

Jakub Fibigr
Nathan Villeneuve

Utah Mammoth

Ethan Belchetz

Vegas Golden Knights

Wyatt Kennedy
Conor Walton

Andrew Robinson and Caden Harvey Selected by Edmonton Oilers in 2026 NHL Draft

Nicholas Welsh — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 14:36:07 +0000

The Edmonton Oilers strengthened their prospect pipeline during the 2026 NHL Draft by selecting two members of the Windsor Spitfires, drafting defenceman Andrew Robinson in the fifth round (133rd overall) and forward Caden Harvey in the sixth round (180th overall). The selections highlight the Oilers' confidence in Windsor's player development system and add two promising OHL talents to Edmonton's future.

Robinson became the first of the Spitfires on day two to hear his name called after the Oilers acquired the 133rd overall pick in a draft-day trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. The 6-foot, 190-pound left-shot defenceman enjoyed an impressive rookie campaign with Windsor, recording nine goals and 24 points in 63 games while finishing with a remarkable +36 rating. His steady defensive play earned him a spot on the OHL Second All-Rookie Team.

Just 47 picks later, the Oilers returned to Windsor to select forward Caden Harvey. The 6-foot-1 playmaker posted 11 goals and 23 assists for 34 points in 68 games during his first OHL season after arriving from the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite.

Oilers Director of Amateur Scouting Rick Pracey praised Harvey's offensive instincts, quick hands and hockey sense, describing him as a player whose skill level projected closer to a third- or fourth-round talent.

Selecting two teammates from one of the Ontario Hockey League's top clubs reflects Edmonton's confidence in the culture and development environment built by the Windsor Spitfires. Robinson and Harvey were key contributors to one of the league's strongest teams, gaining valuable experience in meaningful games while continuing to develop against elite junior competition.

For Windsor, having multiple players drafted by the same NHL organization serves as another testament to the franchise's ability to prepare players for the professional ranks. For Edmonton, Robinson and Harvey represent two high-value selections who could become important pieces of the organization's future.

While both prospects will continue their development before making the jump to professional hockey, Oilers fans now have two more names to follow closely. If their growth continues on its current trajectory, Andrew Robinson and Caden Harvey could one day reunite in Edmonton wearing the blue and orange.

Utah Mammoth Select Ethan Belchetz 17th Overall in the 2026 NHL Draft

Nicholas Welsh — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 01:42:49 +0000

The Utah Mammoth added size, skill, and offensive upside to their prospect pool Friday night, selecting Windsor Spitfires left winger Ethan Belchetz with the 17th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Belchetz entered the draft as one of the Ontario Hockey League's premier power forwards after an impressive sophomore campaign with Windsor. Despite missing time due to a shoulder injury, the 6-foot-5 winger produced 59 points (34 goals, 25 assists) in 57 games.

Known for his powerful skating stride, heavy shot, and ability to dominate below the faceoff dots, Belchetz emerged as a player capable of impacting the game in multiple ways. He consistently used his size to create space offensively while developing into a more complete two-way winger throughout the season.

Belchetz's rise up draft boards accelerated throughout the season as scouts praised his offensive instincts and improved consistency. Before his injury, he was producing at better than a point-per-game pace while playing against the OHL's top competition.

The Oakville, Ontario native was widely projected as a mid-first-round selection, with many evaluators believing his blend of power-forward attributes and offensive upside could translate well to the professional game.

Belchetz is expected to continue his development before making the jump to professional hockey, giving the Mammoth another cornerstone prospect as the franchise continues building toward long-term success.

The selection marks one of the biggest moments of Belchetz's young career, transforming the Windsor Spitfires standout from one of the OHL's top prospects into the newest member of the Utah Mammoth organization.

Spitfires Sign 2024 5th Round Pick Sam Wathier to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement

Nicholas Welsh — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:00:22 +0000

WINDSOR, ON. The Windsor Spitfires are proud to announce the signing of defenceman Sam Wathier (Wat-te-eh) to the Red, White and Navy! The Spitfires selected Wathier with the 96th overall pick in the fifth round of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. A dual Canadian-American citizen from Casselman, Ontario, and Des Moines, Iowa, Wathier stands 6’4” and weighs 207 pounds. Wathier played his minor hockey in Canada with the Eastern Ontario Wild of Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO). During his 2023–24 draft season, he recorded 3 goals and 11 assists for 14 points in 30 games. Following his selection by Windsor, Wathier joined the United States National Team Development Program (NTDP). He appeared in 90 games across both the NTDP and the USHL’s NTDP Juniors program, recording 13 assists. Internationally, Wathier represented Team USA at the 2024-25 U17 World Hockey Challenge, appearing in five games. In 2025-26, Wathier continued his development with the NTDP, playing for both the U17 and U18 teams, as well as the USHL’s NTDP Juniors squad. He played 42 games and recorded 3 points before his season was cut short by injury. Wathier is eligible for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft that starts tomorrow night in Buffalo. Wathier is excited to be joining the club. “It feels great to be a Spitfire” Wathier said. “It is an honour to represent this historic franchise, and I am excited for the opportunity. I can’t wait to play in front of the amazing fans!” Bill Bowler spoke on Wathier putting pen to paper. “Sam is a big body that covers a lot of ice” GM Bill Bowler said. “He defends with a purpose and has untapped offensive upside. We welcome Sam and his family to Windsor.” Welcome to the Spitfires, Sam!

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For media inquiries, please contact: Nick Welsh | Manager of Communications, Media and Community Relations | Windsor Spitfires Hockey Club WFCU Centre 8787 McHugh Street | Windsor, Ontario | N8S 0A1 W. 519-254-5000 ext 221 Email: Social@windsorspitfires.com

2025-26 Spitfires Team Awards

Nicholas Welsh — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 14:38:34 +0000

Windsor Spitfires Player of the Year – 66 The Windsor Spitfires Most Valuable Player Award is presented annually to the player who is most valuable to the team in all aspects of the game including offensively, defensively, and on special teams. Leading Goal Scorer – 66 The Leading Goal Scorer is presented annually to the player with the most goals scored as a member of the Spitfires at the conclusion of the regular season. Leading Point Scorer Award – 66 The Leading Point Scorer Award is presented annually to the player who leads the team in points scored as a member of the Spitfires at the conclusion of the regular season. William McAgy Leading Scoring Defenceman – 24 The William McAgy Leading Scoring Defenceman award goes to the Spitfire defenceman who concludes the regular season as the Spitfires leading scorer in points by a defenceman. Rookie Scoring Leader – 80 The Rookie Scoring Leader of the Year award is presented annually to the Spitfire rookie that concludes the regular season with the most points. Tim Hortons Best Defenceman – 2 The Tim Hortons Best Defenceman award is presented annually to the defenseman who throughout the regular season demonstrates the greatest all around ability both offensively and defensively. Rookie of the Year – 17 The Rookie of the Year award is presented annually to the Spitfire rookie who demonstrates the greatest all around ability each game throughout the regular season. Scott Miller Award – 8 The Scott Miller Award is presented to the player who shows the most on and off ice commitment to the team throughout the regular season. This award was named in honour of Scott Miller, who was rewarded for his commitment to the Windsor Spitfires organization, becoming the first player to have his number (23) retired by the Spitfires in team history. He played for the Spitfires from 1972 to 1976 and served as the team’s Captain from 1975-1976. Jake Pollen Hardest Working Spitfire of the Year - 77 The Jake Pollen Hardest Working Spitfire is presented annually to the player who exemplifies hard work on the ice. Pollen, who passed away in March of 2011, served as a dressing room attendant with the Spitfires for 20 seasons, retiring in 2009. His dedication to the Spitfires in each of these seasons remains unquestioned. The Windsor Spitfires established this award a few seasons prior to his retirement from the team and will continue to hand it out annually in his honour. Academic Achievement Award – 27 The Academic Achievement award is awarded annually to the Spitfire Player who achieves the highest academic standard on the team. Most Improved Player – 17 The Most Improved Player award is presented annually to the player whose efforts on and off ice, from training camp to the conclusion of the regular season, has helped him become a better overall player. Jason Bennett Award for Community Service – 24 The Jason Bennett Award for Community Service is presented annually to the player who best represents the Spitfires at community based events during the 2019-20 season. Jason Bennett, a Windsorite and fervent Spitfire supporter was tragically killed when he was struck by a drunk driver at 10 years age. The Spitfires organization renamed their award for community service in his honour. Paul Maurice Award for Determination and Dedication to the Organization – Ken Preti The Paul Maurice Award is presented annually to a staff member of the Windsor Spitfires organization who has demonstrated the most dedication and commitment to the team. This award was named in Paul Maurice’s honour as he played for the Spitfires from 1984 to 1988 and won an OHL Championship with the team in his final season (1987-1988). Maurice was captain of the team in 87-88 and as an overager, he gave up his captaincy and spot on the roster so the Spitfires could acquire overage goaltender Pat Jablonski in the middle of season, solidifying the team’s goaltending position in what proved to be a banner year for the Spits. Maurice served as an assistant coach with the Spitfires for the remainder of this season and used this opportunity to start his successful career as a head coach in the OHL and NHL from the 1993-1994 season to the present time. He currently serves as the Head Coach of the Florida Panthers.

Spitfires Annual Orientation Camp set for Saturday and Sunday

Nicholas Welsh — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 16:13:16 +0000

WINDSOR, ON. The Windsor Spitfires Annual Orientation Camp will be held this weekend on Saturday, June 20th, and Sunday, June 21st at the WFCU Centre. The camp will include both on and off-ice sessions. Attending the event will be the team’s 2026 selections from both the OHL Priority Selection and the U18 Draft. All on-ice sessions will be free and open to the public. For those wishing to attend the 2026 Orientation Camp on-ice sessions please enter through the community gate and into the community rinks. On Ice Sessions (open to the public):

Saturday, June 20^th 4:00pm – 6:10pm – on ice practice and 3 on 3 scrimmage.

Click PDF for a copy of the roster/attendees.

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