Explore the OHL: Barrie Colts
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
Barrie, located in Central Ontario, is just 90 km north of Toronto and has a population of over 147,000. Known for its picturesque waterfront along Lake Simcoe, the city boasts a rich history with strong ties to arts, culture, and outdoor recreation. The Barrie Colts, a member of the OHL since 1995, have made their mark in the league, winning the J. Ross Robertson Cup as OHL champions in the 1999-2000 season before reaching the Memorial Cup final. The Colts have also claimed four Bobby Orr Trophies as Eastern Conference champions during their history. The Colts have retired two numbers in recent years, including the #13 of Kyle Clifford on Feb. 27, 2025 as well as the #18 of former captain and franchise scoring leader Bryan Little on Jan. 25, 2020. The former #10 of Hockey Hall of Fame inductee Dale Hawerchuk, who never played for the Colts, but coached them from 2010 until his passing following a battle with cancer in 2019 is also honoured by the franchise.
ARENA
Sadlon Arena (formerly Barrie Molson Centre) is a 4,195-seat multi-purpose venue that opened on December 31, 1995 when the Colts faced the Sudbury Wolves. In 2019, a 10-year naming rights agreement with Paul Sadlon Motors renamed the facility Sadlon Arena. Home to the Barrie Colts, the arena hosts hockey games, concerts, and community events. Horsepower Sports Bar & BBQ Grill, located at ice level, offers a sports bar atmosphere with Barrie Colts memorabilia, including game-worn jerseys, sticks, and photos. At the time of its opening, it was the first of a new generation of OHL arenas, with several others to follow soon-after. Cool Feature: The Colts do a great job showcasing all of their franchise record-holders on leaderboards hung atop the perimeter of the playing surface.
TEAM TROPHY CASE
J. Ross Robertson Cup (OHL Champions)
Champions in 2000 (Defeated Plymouth in 7 games)
Bobby Orr Trophy (Eastern Conference Champions)
Champions in 2013 (Defeated Belleville in 7 games)
Champions in 2010 (Defeated Toronto in 5 games)
Champions in 2002 (Defeated Toronto in 4 games)
Champions in 2000 (Defeated Belleville in 5 games)
Emms Trophy (Central Division Champions)
9 Times – 2025, 2018, 2016, 2015, 2013, 2010, 2007, 2000, 1999
Hamilton Spectator Trophy (Regular Season Champions)
1 Time – 2010
PROMINENT ON-ICE OHL AWARD WINNERS
Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy (Top Scorer)
2017-18: Aaron Luchuk, 2015-16: Kevin Labanc, 1999-00: Sheldon Keefe
Max Kaminsky Trophy (Defenceman of the Year)
2013-14: Aaron Ekblad, 2001-02: Erik Reitz
Jim Rutherford Trophy (Goaltender of the Year)
2015-16: Mackenzie Blackwood, 2003-04: Paulo Colaiacovo, 1998-99: Brian Finley
Emms Family Award (Rookie of the Year)
2017-18: Andrei Svechnikov, 2011-12: Aaron Ekblad, 2003-04: Bryan Little, 1998-99: Sheldon Keefe
Wayne Gretzky 99 Award (Playoff MVP)
1999-00: Brian Finley
EDUCATION
Current Barrie Colts high school players attend Innisdale Secondary School, while older players have the option to further their education locally at Georgian College in Barrie.
NOTABLE ALUMNI
Since joining the OHL in 1995, the Barrie Colts have been a cornerstone for developing exceptional talent on and off the ice. Numerous alumni have gone on to professional hockey careers worldwide. Among their distinguished NHL alumni are Aaron Ekblad (OHL Rookie of the Year, OHL Defenceman of the Year), Andrei Svechnikov (OHL Rookie of the Year), Bryan Little (OHL Rookie of the Year), Mark Scheifele, Brandt Clarke, and others, showcasing the team’s legacy of excellence.
TEAM BONDING AND COMMUNITY
The Barrie Colts are a tight-knit team dedicated to making a positive impact in their local community. From team bonding events to community involvement, the Colts focus on coming together to create meaningful connections and contribute to the area. Standout team bonding events include pre-season cottage days at Head Coach Dylan Smoskowitz’s cabin and renting suites at NHL games. In the community, the Annual Colt for a Day event with Kempenfelt Rotary is a highlight, where players spend the day engaging with local youth and organizations through activities like mentoring, playing sports, and participating in various Rotary events.
BILLET LIFE
The Colts are supported by approximately 30 dedicated billet families whom play an extremely important role in the success of a player, on and off the ice. The Barrie Colts hockey club is committed to ensuring billeting is a progressive experience, both for families and the players.
WHERE TO EAT
The Colts recommend two standout dining spots for visitors exploring the city: 147 Ristorante, an Italian eatery renowned for its authentic pasta dishes and warm ambiance, and Spoon & Fork, a modern restaurant offering a diverse menu that blends Asian and Western cuisines.
NOTABLE LANDMARKS
Barrie is home to several great landmarks. Centennial Park and the Barrie Waterfront provide beautiful spaces to relax and enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and playing on the floating waterpark, all with stunning views of Lake Simcoe. The city is also known for the Spirit Catcher Statue, a famous sculpture that highlights its connection to art and Indigenous culture.
HISTORIC FACT
Barrie played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, serving as the final destination for many escaping slavery. While there are no specific monuments dedicated solely to this history, the Barrie Historical Archives and Simcoe County Museum offer insight into the city’s involvement in the Underground Railroad and its legacy of freedom and inclusion.
For additional insights about the city of Barrie, visit www.destinationontario.com.
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