Barrie Colts secure Central Division title

The Barrie Colts won a high-scoring matchup in St. Catharines on Tuesday night, defeating the Niagara IceDogs 7-4 to clinch their first Central Division title since 2018.

Mid-season acquisitions Anthony Romani (2-1–3) and Dalyn Wakely (1-2–3) each had three points in the win as the 39-20-2-2 Colts claim the Emms Trophy for the eighth time in their history following previous titles in 2018, 2016, 2015, 2013, 2010, 2000 and 1999. The victory was also the 600th of Colts head coach Marty Williamson’s OHL career.

The Colts have benefitted from steady goaltending as Sam Hillebrandt and emerging talent Ben Hrebik who have helped them surrender the fewest goals in the Eastern Conference.

Vancouver Canucks prospect Riley Patterson currently leads the club offensively with 59 points (25-34–59) through 60 games while standout 2024 NHL Draft prospect Kashawn Aitcheson (23-31–54) has done big things on the back end, tying a single season franchise record with his 23 goals.

The Colts secure the Central Division after spending much of the season neck-and-neck with the Niagara IceDogs, who have fallen off in the past month.

The Emms Trophy is named in honour of four-time Memorial Cup champion coach and founder of the OHA’s Barrie Flyers, Hap Emms.