Explore the OHL: Windsor Spitfires
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
Windsor is a city in southwestern Ontario, located along the Detroit River directly across from Detroit, Michigan. Known as the “Automotive Capital of Canada,” Windsor has a rich industrial heritage and is also the southernmost city in Canada. The Detroit–Windsor urban area is North America’s most populous trans-border region, with the Ambassador Bridge serving as the busiest commercial crossing on the Canada–United States border. The Windsor Spitfires have a proud history in the OHL, dating back to their founding in 1971. The original Spitfires played in the Ontario Hockey Association from 1945 to 1953, with the team name chosen to honour the 417 Combat Support Squadron. The Spitfires have claimed OHL championships in 1988, 2009, and 2010, along with Memorial Cup victories in 2009, 2010, and 2017. Their success reflects a strong development system, producing top-tier talent while fostering a culture of resilience and pride.
EDUCATION
Windsor Spitfires high school players attend St. Anne’s Catholic High School, which has a strong tradition of supporting student-athletes. The city is also home to top educational institutions like the University of Windsor and St. Clair College, offering excellent opportunities for players to pursue their academics alongside their hockey careers.
Bobby Smith Trophy (Scholastic Player of the Year)
2007-08: Ryan Ellis, 1987-88: Darrin Shannon
Roger Neilson Memorial Award (Top Academic Post-Secondary Student)
2009-10/2010-11: Derek Lanoue
PROMINANT ON-ICE OHL AWARD WINNERS
Red Tilson Trophy (Most Outstanding Player)
2022-23: Matthew Maggio, 2021-22: Wyatt Johnston, 2010-11: Ryan Ellis, 1980-81: Ernie Godden, 1950-51: Glenn Hall
Max Kaminsky Trophy (Defenceman of the Year)
2015-16: Mikhail Sergachev, 2010-11: Ryan Ellis, 2008-09: Ryan Ellis, 1987-88: Darryl Shannon
Jim Rutherford Trophy (Goaltender of the Year)
2017-18: Michael DiPietro
Emms Family Award (Rookie of the Year)
2007-08: Taylor Hall, 1996-97: Peter Sarno, 1990-91: Cory Stillman
NOTABLE ALUMNI
The Spitfires have a proud history of developing top-tier talent, with several alumni achieving significant success in their professional careers. Notable names include Wyatt Johnston, a rising NHL star with the Dallas Stars; Taylor Hall, a Hart Trophy winner and first-overall NHL draft pick; and Ryan Ellis, a decorated defenceman known for his skill and leadership. Will Cuylle has also emerged as a promising forward with the New York Rangers.
Spitfires alumnus and current General Manager, Bill Bowler, still holds the OHL record for most career assists with 318. He also owns the Spitfires’ franchise records for most career points and most assists in a single season, with 102 assists during the 1994–95 campaign.
ARENA
The WFCU Centre is a premier sports and entertainment venue located in Windsor, serving as the home of the Windsor Spitfires. The facility features three public rinks, a main bowl, a swimming pool, and a gym. It replaced the historic Windsor Arena as the Spitfires’ primary home and opened on December 11, 2008, in the city’s east end. Owned by the City of Windsor, the WFCU Centre has hosted several major hockey events, including the 2012 World U-17 Hockey Challenge, the OHL All-Star Game, the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game, and the 2017 Memorial Cup.
NOTABLE LANDMARKS
Windsor is home to several iconic landmarks that highlight the city’s beauty. The Windsor River Walk, featuring a beautiful sculpture park, offers scenic views along the waterfront, while the Ambassador Bridge is a prominent international landmark connecting Canada (Windsor) and the United States (Detroit). Willistead Manor, an early 20th-century mansion, is a stunning architectural gem and popular spot for events. The Ojibway Nature Centre provides trails and wildlife viewing, while the Art Gallery of Windsor showcases diverse art collections. Coventry Gardens is also a notable landmark, with its beautifully landscaped grounds offering a peaceful escape for visitors.
SPECIAL EVENTS
The Spitfires engage in several special events that foster team bonding and strengthen their connection with the local community. The training camp golf outing provides a fun opportunity for players and staff to bond off the ice, while the annual pumpkin carving event with billet families brings the team together for some lighthearted fun. Players also volunteer for the Goodfellows paper drive, helping to support local families in need. Fans are invited to a season ticket member BBQ and a volunteer appreciation BBQ, where they can interact with players and celebrate the community’s support. These events highlight the Spitfires’ commitment to building strong relationships both on and off the ice.
BILLET LIFE
Windsor Spitfires players are supported by 21 billet families who provide them with a home away from home during their hockey careers, with host families residing in Windsor, Tecumseh, and Belle River/Lakeshore. These families play a crucial role in the players’ development, offering them a safe and welcoming environment where they can focus on both their academics and athletic pursuits.
FUN FACT
Windsor, known as the “Automotive Capital of Canada,” is celebrated for its strong ties to the auto industry, which has played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s economy and culture. With a rich history rooted in automotive manufacturing, Windsor continues to be a key hub for innovation and industry in Canada, while also maintaining a vibrant community and a dynamic workforce. The city’s legacy in the automotive sector remains a cornerstone of its identity.
WHERE TO EAT
Windsor offers excellent dining options like Cramdon’s and Rivers Edge Tap and Table. Cramdon’s is known for its delicious comfort food, while Rivers Edge Tap and Table offers a vibrant setting with a wide range of craft beers and a great menu, ideal for enjoying a meal while taking in scenic river views. Windsor is also renowned for its pizza, especially for its shredded pepperoni, with local spots serving up delicious pies that have become a must-try for pizza enthusiasts.
For additional insights about the city of Windsor, visit www.destinationontario.com.
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