Explore the OHL: Kingston Frontenacs
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
Kingston, located along the shores of Lake Ontario, is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. Known as Canada’s first capital in 1841, Kingston played a significant role in the country’s early development. The city is home to the Frontenacs, who have been a staple of the Ontario Hockey League since their founding in 1973. The team’s roots trace back to the Kingston Victorias in 1945, predating the OHL. The current franchise was founded in the Ontario Hockey Association in 1973-74 as the Kingston Canadians, later becoming the Raiders in 1988-89 before adopting the Frontenacs name in 1989. The team has claimed multiple East Division titles, including in 1995 and 2016.
EDUCATION
Current Kingston Frontenacs high school players attend Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School. Throughout the team’s history, two players, Erik Gudbranson and Chris Clifford, have been honoured with the Scholastic Player of the Year Award. Additionally, Kingston is home to both Queen’s University, which offers excellent post-secondary education opportunities for players, and the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC), Canada’s military academy, where future officers of the Canadian Armed Forces are trained.
Bobby Smith Trophy (Scholastic Player of the Year)
2009-10: Erik Gudbranson, 1985-86: Chris Clifford
PROMINANT ON-ICE OHL AWARD WINNERS
Red Tilson Trophy (Most Outstanding Player)
1999-00: Andrew Raycroft, 1994-95: David Ling
Max Kaminsky Trophy (Defenceman of the Year)
1997-98: Chris Allen, 1974-75: Mike O’Connell
Jim Rutherford Trophy (Goaltender of the Year)
2014-15: Lucas Peressini, 1999-00: Andrew Raycroft, 1994-95: Tyler Moss
Emms Family Award (Rookie of the Year)
2019-20: Shane Wright, 1991-92: Chris Gratton
ARENA
Slush Puppie Place is a 5,614-seat sports and entertainment venue in downtown Kingston, opened on November 6, 2008. It was renamed this season, having previously been known as the Leon’s Centre. This modern facility replaced the aging Kingston Memorial Centre and serves as the home arena for the Kingston Frontenacs. The venue has become a central hub for concerts, events, and hockey games, offering fans an immersive experience. Its location provides a prime view of Kingston’s waterfront, contributing to the city’s vibrant downtown atmosphere. The arena is located at 1 The Tragically Hip Way, Kingston, Ontario, across from the historic Fort Frontenac.
BILLET LIFE
The Frontenacs are supported by 20 dedicated billet families, with an additional two on reserve for the 2024-25 season. These families provide a safe and stable environment for the players. Billet families are a key part of the Frontenacs organization, with most host families residing in Kingston’s West End.
NOTABLE ALUMNI
The Kingston Frontenacs have produced several notable alumni who have gone on to play in the NHL and other professional hockey leagues. Some of the most well-known players include Shane Wright, Jason Robertson, Sam Bennett, Erik Gudbranson, Lawson Crouse, Michael Dal Colle, and Andrew Raycroft, who won the Calder Trophy as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2004. These players exemplify the strong development system within the Frontenacs organization. For a full list of Frontenacs alumni, click here.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Kingston offers a variety of community activities, including the annual CFB Kingston Team Building Exercise, which brings local groups together for team-oriented challenges. Players also enjoy golfing and bowling outings, as well as group nutrition coaching classes aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle. The city’s annual Fan Fest event is a highlight, drawing large crowds for a day of entertainment and local pride, where the Frontenacs attend and participate.
NOTABLE LANDMARKS
Kingston is home to several historic and scenic landmarks, including Fort Henry National Historic Site, a former military fort with guided tours, and the Gord Downie Memorial Pier, a popular waterfront spot. Springer Market Square is a central gathering place for markets and events, while Kingston Penitentiary, one of Canada’s oldest prisons, offers guided tours through its historic cells, guard towers, and exercise yards, showcasing its role in the country’s prison history. Visitors can also see Kingston Mills, part of the Rideau Canal, enjoy green space at Confederation Park, or take in the waterfront views at Lighthouse Park.
FUN FACTS
Kingston served as Canada’s first capital in 1841, marking a key moment in the country’s early history. The city is also home to The Tragically Hip, a legendary Canadian band, who performed their final show in Kingston in 2016. Kingston’s Public Market, Ontario’s oldest, continues to be a lively hub for local produce and goods, maintaining a strong connection to the city’s roots. With its historic landmarks and cultural significance, Kingston offers a unique blend of heritage and modern charm.
WHERE TO EAT
The Merchant Tap House and Union Kitchen + Cocktails are two popular dining spots in Kingston! The Merchant Tap House provides a warm atmosphere with a classic pub-style menu, while Union Kitchen + Cocktails offers a more upscale experience, featuring innovative dishes and expertly crafted cocktails. Both venues provide a great place for fans and visitors to enjoy a meal before or after attending a Kingston Frontenacs game.
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