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	<title>Adam Jiricek &#8211; Ontario Hockey League</title>
	<link>https://chl.ca/ohl</link>
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                  <title>Bulldogs Name Two-Time NOJHL Coach of the Year Peter Goulet Assistant Coach</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/bulldogs-name-two-time-nojhl-coach-of-the-year-peter-goulet-assistant-coach</link>
        <pubDate>Sat, 11 Jul 2026 03:49:47 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/bulldogs-name-two-time-nojhl-coach-of-the-year-peter-goulet-assistant-coach</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<strong>BRANTFORD, ONTARIO - </strong>Brantford Bulldogs President of Hockey Operations Spencer Hyman &amp; Head Coach Michael Babcock today announced the hiring of Bulldogs’ head scout Peter Goulet as Assistant Coach.

Goulet, of Sydenham, ON, brings over two decades of bench experience to Brantford with a career beginning in 2004 as head coach Rideau St. Lawrence Kings of the HEO before moving to the Junior A level with the Kingston Voyageurs for three seasons as both assistant coach &amp; assistant general manager, winning an OJHL Championship in 2009. Goulet moved to Nepean of the CCHL where he served as head coach &amp; general manager of the Raiders from the 2009-2010 season through 2014-15, while spending the final two seasons in Nepean as a scout for the Halifax Mooseheads in the QMJHL and was named CCHL Coach of the Year in the 2011-12 season. Goulet next spent a pair of seasons at the professional level as an assistant coach with the Brampton Beast of the ECHL from 2015-16 to 2016-17 while also serving as general manager of the Kingston Voyageurs. Returning to Kingston full time in 2017, Goulet spent the next two seasons as head coach &amp; general manager of the Voyageurs and was named assistant coach for Team Canada East at the 2018 World Junior A Challenge. Goulet moved onto the Trenton Golden Hawks as head coach &amp; general manager for the 2019-20 season, staying for the next three seasons and being named OJHL Executive of the Year in 2020. Spending the last four years as the head coach of the NOJHL’s Powassan Voodoos, Goulet continued to earn accolades, winning a World Junior A Challenge Silver Medal as an assistant coach for Team Canada East in 2023 and being named NOJHL Coach of the Year for both the 2022-23 &amp; 2025-26 seasons.

“Pete is a familiar face in the organization with world of experience that will only help our staff and players.” said Brantford Bulldogs Head Coach Michael Babcock. “His articulation of clear and concise messaging was beyond impressive. Paired with his scouting ability, he is going to be crucial to our success.”.

Goulet will continue to serve as the head scout for the Bulldogs in addition to his coaching duties, a dual role that Bulldogs President of Hockey Operations Spencer Hyman had tremendous faith for Goulet in.

“This is a move we believe gives our organization a real competitive advantage." said Hyman. “Peter is an outstanding human and coach who will build strong relationships with our players every day while continuing to be our lead scout. We believe the connection between scouting and coaching is invaluable—having someone who understands exactly what it takes to succeed in our program creates a seamless link between recruiting and development. Using a college hockey model, Peter will assist coaching our team while continuing to evaluate top talent across the Alliance, GTA, and OMHA whenever the Bulldogs aren’t playing. We’re confident this structure will make us stronger today and for years to come.”.]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>Frontenacs sign defenceman Shane Roche</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/frontenacs-sign-defenceman-shane-roche</link>
        <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 22:15:29 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/frontenacs-sign-defenceman-shane-roche</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<span style="font-size: 12pt;color: #000000"><strong>Kingston, ON - </strong>The Kingston Frontenacs Hockey Club and General Manager Kory Cooper have announced the signing of Shane Roche to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.</span>

<span style="font-size: 12pt;color: #000000">The Frontenacs selected Roche with the 39th overall pick in the second round of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. The 6'3'', 174lbs defenceman spent the 2025-26 season with the Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA program, playing in 31 games and collecting 5 goals and 8 assists for 13 points. Hailing from Markham, ON, he and his teammates would go on to play four games in the 2026 OHL Cup.</span>
<blockquote><span style="font-size: 12pt"><b><i data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">"Shane is a big-bodied presence who can do a bit of everything on the blueline," </i>said Frontenacs General Manager Kory Cooper. </b><b><i>"He's a left-shot defender with great feet that covers a lot of ice and possesses a good active stick when defending. He can make a good first pass and transition the puck effectively.<em><strong> We're excited to have him continue his development here in Kingston. We're happy to welcome Shane and the Roche family into the Frontenacs organization."</strong></em></i></b></span></blockquote>
<span style="font-size: 12pt">Roche joins Logan Prud'homme and Roman Vanacker as the third member of the 2026 Frontenacs draft class to sign his OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Shane will wear number 83 for Kingston.</span>
<blockquote><span style="font-size: 12pt"><em><strong>"It's so exciting," </strong></em><strong>said Roche. <em>"I've worked my entire hockey career for this moment. I just can't wait to get started and do everything I can to help the team succeed."</em></strong></span></blockquote>]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>Colts sign defenceman Marc Ruggere</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/colts-sign-defenceman-marc-ruggere</link>
        <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:00:04 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/colts-sign-defenceman-marc-ruggere</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[The Colts have locked up 87th overall pick Marc Ruggere, a 6'3", 187-lb rearguard whose physical, stay-at-home style has scouts drawing comparisons to Parker von Richter.]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal" style="text-align: left" data-sourcepos="3:1-3:224;38-261">The Barrie Colts announced today that the club has signed defenceman Marc Ruggere to a standard OHL player agreement, officially bringing the New Jersey product into the organization's blue-line pipeline.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal" style="text-align: left" data-sourcepos="5:1-5:356;263-618">Ruggere, a 6-foot-3, 196-pound right-shot defenceman from Saddle River, New Jersey, was selected by Barrie in the fifth round (87th overall) of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, a pick acquired via Saginaw. The signing formalizes his commitment to the organization after a summer that saw him weigh a college path before deciding his future was in the CHL.</p>

<blockquote>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal" style="text-align: center" data-sourcepos="7:1-7:265;620-884">"We're really excited to get Marc's name on paper," said Colts General Manager <strong><em>Marty Williamson</em></strong>. "He's a big, physical kid who plays with an edge every night. As soon as our staff saw him play, we knew this was a guy who fit the identity we're building in Barrie."</p>
</blockquote>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal" style="text-align: left" data-sourcepos="9:1-9:507;886-1392">A stay-at-home defenceman with an imposing frame and a competitive streak, Ruggere spent last season with the Woodbridge Wolfpack Premier U15 AAA before capping his year with the Detroit Little Caesars at the OHL Cup, where he chipped in a goal over five games against some of the top competition in the region.</p>
<p style="text-align: left" data-sourcepos="9:1-9:507;886-1392">Ruggere's game is built on details: tight gaps, a heavy stick, and a willingness to make life difficult for opposing forwards below the hoops. Scouts have flagged him as a high-character, high-compete defender who reads plays well for a player his size, giving the Colts a long-term piece who profiles as a shutdown option as he continues to develop.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal" style="text-align: left" data-sourcepos="17:1-17:233;2309-2541">With the signing complete, Ruggere joins a Colts blue line that continues to add size and physicality, giving Barrie's coaching staff another versatile option to develop as the organization builds.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal" style="text-align: left" data-sourcepos="19:1-19:29;2543-2571"></p>]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>2026 OHL In The System: Nashville Predators</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/2026-ohl-in-the-system-nashville-predators</link>
        <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 16:43:27 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/2026-ohl-in-the-system-nashville-predators</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[Explore the Nashville Predators' OHL prospect pool, featuring Brady Martin, Cameron Reid, Jack Ivankovic, Joey Willis, Andrew Gibson and more in OHL In The System.]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<i><span style="font-weight: 400">This 32-part series will spotlight OHL players who are either signed to an NHL or AHL contract or are recently drafted, and are 25 years old or younger with 50 or fewer NHL games played. </span></i>

<i><span style="font-weight: 400">Join us for OHL in the System!</span></i>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Today, we take a closer look at the rising OHL talent developing within the Nashville Predators organization.</span>

&nbsp;

<b>Charlie Puglisi (F) – Kitchener Rangers (2026-27)</b>

<b>Selected: 7th Round, 202nd Overall (2026)</b>

<b>2025-26 Career Stats (USHS-Prep): 35 GP, 26G, 50A, 76 PTS</b>

<b>Age: 17</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Kitchener Rangers recruit Charlie Puglisi was selected by the Nashville Predators in the seventh round of the 2026 NHL Draft. Playing for The Winchendon School last season, Puglisi recorded 76 points (26-50–76) in 35 regular-season games and is committed to Cornell University for the 2028-29 season.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/9018/"><b>Brady Martin</b></a><b> (C) – Soo Greyhounds (2023-26)</b>

<b>Selected: 1st Round, 5th Overall (2025)</b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 133 GP, 51G, 73A, 124 PTS, +43</b>

<b>Age: 19</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Brady Martin began the 2025-26 season with the Nashville Predators, appearing in three NHL games before returning to the Soo Greyhounds. Upon his return to the Soo in late October, Martin produced 24 points (8-16–24) over 24 games before adding 10 points (3-7–10) in as many playoff outings. The 6-foot, 184-lb. centre from Elmira, ON, won a bronze medal with Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, recording eight points (4-4–8) in six contests, although it was also this tournament where Martin suffered an upper-body injury.  At the end of the season, he was also presented with the Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8948/"><b>Cameron Reid</b></a><b> (D) – Kitchener Rangers (2023-26)</b>

<b>Selected: 1st Round, 21st Overall (2025)</b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 173 GP, 31G, 102A, 133 PTS, +82</b>

<b>Age: 19</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Cam Reid concluded his OHL career by captaining the Kitchener Rangers to both an OHL and Memorial Cup championship. He recorded a career-high 56 points (15-41–56) in 57 regular-season games before adding 20 points (3-17–20) across the OHL Playoffs and Memorial Cup, earning a place on the Memorial Cup All-Star Team. He also represented Team Canada at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, helping the team win bronze. The 6-foot defenceman is committed to the University of Michigan for the 2026-27 season.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8949/"><b>Jack Ivankovic</b></a><b> (G) – Mississauga/Brampton Steelheads (2023-25)</b>

<b>Selected: 2nd Round, 58th Overall (2025)</b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 68 GP, 2.93 GAA, .907 SV%, 39-17-9-0</b>

<b>Age: 19</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">In his first season with the Michigan Wolverines, Jack Ivankovic had an outstanding rookie year, recording a 2.15 goals-against average, a .921 save percentage and three shutouts over 35 games. He also represented Team Canada and won bronze at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship. This marked Ivankovic's second straight appearance at the World Juniors, and he will look to become the first Canadian goaltender to medal in three consecutive tournaments this December.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8770/"><b>Joey Willis</b></a><b> (C) – Saginaw Spirit (2022-25), Kingston Frontenacs (2024-25)</b>

<b>Selected: 4th Round, 111th Overall (2025)</b>

<b>Signed: </b><a href="https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/predators-sign-joey-willis-to-three-year-entry-level-contract-2025-03-03"><b>March 3, 2025</b></a><b> </b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 180 GP, 56 G, 90 A, 146 PTS, +30</b>

<b>Age: 21</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">In his first professional season with the Milwaukee Admirals, Joey Willis recorded 22 points (8-14–22) in 56 regular-season games. Just a few years ago, the Elmhurst, Ill., native became just the sixth American to win both a World Junior Championship (Team USA, 2025) and a Memorial Cup (Saginaw Spirit, 2024).</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8570/"><b>Andrew Gibson</b></a><b> (D) – Soo Greyhounds (2021-25), Oshawa Generals (2024-25)</b>

<b>Acquired: </b><a href="https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/predators-acquire-andrew-gibson-from-detroit"><b>June 25, 2024</b></a>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 173 GP, 28 G, 61 A, 89 PTS, +49</b>

<b>Age: 20</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Playing in his first season with the Admirals, Andrew Gibson recorded 13 points (2-11–13) and 80 penalty minutes in 71 regular-season games.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8232/"><b>Vitali Pinchuk</b></a><b> (LW) – Kingston Frontenacs (2019-20)</b>

<b>Signed: </b><a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/article/former-frontenac-vitali-pinchuk-signs-with-nashville-predators/"><b>April 27, 2026</b></a><b> </b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 54 GP, 13G, 21A, 34 PTS, -12</b>

<b>Age: 24</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">A native of Belarus, Vitali Pinchuk most recently skated with Dinamo Minsk of the KHL, where he finished third on the team with 31 goals and tied for sixth in scoring with 66 points. One of just 10 KHL skaters to average a point per game, Pinchuk also set career highs in goals, assists (35), and points during his fourth full season in the league. Following his standout season, he signed an entry-level contract with Nashville at the end of April.</span>

&nbsp;

<b>Hunter Skinner (D) – London Knights (2019-20)</b>

<b>Signed: </b><a href="https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/predators-sign-jack-ahcan-hunter-skinner-to-two-way-contracts-2026-07-01"><b>July 1, 2026</b></a><b>  </b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 32 GP, 6G, 26A, 32 PTS, +32</b>

<b>Age: 25</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Hunter Skinner recorded 19 points (7-12–19) in 60 games with the AHL's Springfield Thunderbirds during the 2025-26 season. The 6-foot-3, 195-pound defenceman also made his NHL debut with St. Louis on Nov. 14, 2025. Originally selected by the New York Rangers in the fourth round (112th overall) of the 2019 NHL Draft, Skinner recently signed with the Predators.</span>]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>2026 OHL In The System: Florida Panthers</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/2026-ohl-in-the-system-florida-panthers</link>
        <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 18:00:52 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/2026-ohl-in-the-system-florida-panthers</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<i><span style="font-weight: 400">This 32-part series will spotlight OHL players who are either signed to an NHL or AHL contract or are recently drafted, and are 25 years old or younger with 50 or fewer NHL games played. </span></i>

<i><span style="font-weight: 400">Join us for OHL in the System!</span></i>

<span style="font-weight: 400">The Panthers’ prospect pipeline is sharpening its claws. Today, we’re spotlighting the young talent ready to pounce.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/9310"><b>Ryder Cali</b></a><b> (C) – North Bay Battalion (2024-26)</b>

<b>Selected: 2nd Round, 48th Overall (2026)</b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 135 GP, 46G, 49A, 95 PTS, -9</b>

<b>Age: 17</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">With the 48th overall pick, the Florida Panthers selected forward Ryder Cali of the North Bay Battalion. A hard-nosed, physical winger, Cali recorded 36 points (16-20–36) in 47 regular-season games during his first full OHL season with the Battalion. He is committed to Providence College for the 2026-27 season. </span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/9228/"><b>Cole Zurawski</b></a><b> (RW) – Flint Firebirds (2024-25), Owen Sound Attack (2024-26)</b>

<b>Selected: 6th Round, 181st Overall (2026)</b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 124 GP, 40G, 37A, 77 PTS, -16</b>

<b>Age: 18</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">With back-to-back OHL selections, the Florida Panthers took Cole Zurawski from the Owen Sound Attack with the 181st overall pick. The 6-foot-1 winger recorded 46 points (24-22–46) in 63 regular-season games. He is committed to the University of Notre Dame for the 2027-28 season. </span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8924/"><b>Shamar Moses</b></a><b> (LW) – Barrie Colts (2023-25), North Bay Battalion (2024-26)</b>

<b>Selected: 5th Round, 129th Overall (2025)</b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 180 GP, 25G, 66A, 91 PTS, -57</b>

<b>Age: 19</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">In his second season with the Battalion, Shamar Moses appeared in 48 regular-season contests and tallied 18 points (8-10–18) and 60 penalty minutes. </span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/9140/"><b>Emil Pieniniemi</b></a><b> (D) – Kingston Frontenacs (2024-25)</b>

<b>Acquired: </b><a href="https://www.nhl.com/panthers/news/florida-panthers-acquire-defenseman-emil-pieniniemi"><b>Jun. 13, 2026</b></a><b> </b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 60 GP, 10G, 50A, 60 PTS, +6</b>

<b>Age: 21</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Recently acquired by the Panthers, Emil Pieniniemi skated in 9 games with the American Hockey League (AHL) Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins during the 2025-26 campaign, registering 3 points (1-2-3). He also amassed 11 points (6-5-11) over 26 games with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers. He paced all Wheeling defensemen in points (1-7-8) throughout 15 Kelly Cup playoff games. The 6-foot-2, 176-pound native of Kuopio, Finland, was originally selected by the Penguins in the third round (91st overall) in the 2023 NHL Draft.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8744/"><b>Sandis Vilmanis</b></a><b> (LW) – Sarnia Sting (2022-24), North Bay Battalion (2023-24)</b>

<b>Selected: 5th Round, 157th Overall (2022)</b>

<b>Signed: </b><a href="https://www.nhl.com/panthers/news/florida-panthers-agree-to-terms-with-forward-sandis-vilmanis-on-a-two-year-contract-extension"><b>Jul. 1, 2026</b></a><b> </b>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 122 GP, 58G, 54A, 112 PTS, +7</b>

<b>Age: 22</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Sandis Vilmanis made his NHL debut this past season, skating in 19 games with Florida in 2025-26, producing five points (3-2-5). He also appeared in 48 contests with the Charlotte Checkers, ranking third on the team with 38 points (17-21-38) while pacing the club’s forwards with a plus-17 rating. In Charlotte’s run to the 2025 Calder Cup Final, the 6-foot-2 winger logged seven points (3-4-7) over 11 postseason contests.</span>

&nbsp;

<a href="https://chl.ca/ohl/players/8441/"><b>Kai Schwindt</b></a><b> (LW) – Mississauga Steelheads (2021-23), Sarnia Sting (2023-24)</b>

<b>Signed: </b><a href="https://chl.ca/ohl-steelheads/kai-schwindt-signs-with-florida-panthers/"><b>September 30, 2022</b></a>

<b>OHL Career Stats: 168 GP, 37G, 28A, 65 PTS, -2</b>

<b>Age: 22</b>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Signed as a free agent by Florida in 2022, Kai Schwindt spent the 2025-26 season with the Checkers. The winger recorded seven points (2-5–7) over 33 appearances. </span>

&nbsp;

<span style="font-weight: 400">Tomorrow on OHL In The System: We'll take a look at the OHL talent inside the Nashville Predators organization.</span>

&nbsp;]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>Several OHL leaders selected to represent Canada at 2026 U17 World Challenge</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/several-ohl-leaders-selected-to-represent-canada-at-2026-u17-world-challenge</link>
        <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:01:49 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/several-ohl-leaders-selected-to-represent-canada-at-2026-u17-world-challenge</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[The OHL will be well-represented at the 2026 World U17 Challenge that takes place from November 1-7 in Oakville.]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<strong>CALGARY, Alberta – </strong>Hockey Canada has announced the coaching and support staffs that will lead Canada’s national under-17 teams through the <a href="https://hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/national-championships/men/world-u17/2026">2026 U17 World Challenge</a>, set for Nov. 1-7 in Oakville, Ontario.

Dan DaSilva (Saskatoon, SK/Saskatoon Blades) and <span style="text-decoration: underline">Dylan Smoskowitz (Richmond Hill, ON/Barrie Colts)</span> will make their international coaching debuts, leading Canada Red and Canada White, respectively, as head coaches. In addition, <span style="text-decoration: underline">Dave Drinkill (Elmvale, ON/Saginaw Spirit)</span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline">Dylan Seca (Sundridge, ON/Sarnia Sting)</span>, will return as directors of hockey operations, with Drinkill working with Canada Red and Seca joining Canada White.

Joining DaSilva on the Canada Red bench will be assistant coaches Ryan Aasman (Medicine Hat, AB/Lethbridge Hurricanes) and <span style="text-decoration: underline">Brendan Taylor</span> (Fomerly with the Soo Greyhounds), assistant coach and eye-in-the-sky Félix Bibeau (Chicoutimi, QC/Chicoutimi Saguenéens) and video coach <span style="text-decoration: underline">Ryan Lennon (Burlington, ON/Kingston Frontenacs)</span>.

Rounding out the Canada White staff are assistant coaches Kyle Chipchura (Westlock, AB/Edmonton Oil Kings) and Mathieu Gravel (Longueuil, QC/Drummondville, Voltigeurs), assistant coach and eye-in-the-sky Dylan Beston (Calgary, AB/Newfoundland Regiment), goaltending coach Max Paddock (Brandon, MB/Regina Pats) and video coach <span style="text-decoration: underline">Alex Darling (Chelsea, QC/Peterborough Petes)</span>.

The staffs were selected by Alan Millar (Tottenham, ON), general manager of the Program of Excellence, alongside assistant general manager Mike Johnston (Dartmouth, NS/Portland, WHL) and Benoit Roy (Sudbury, ON), director of hockey operations.

“We are excited to announce the coaching and support staffs that will lead our teams through the 2026 U17 World Challenge, as we believe both staffs bring incredible Canadian Hockey League and international experience that will greatly benefit our players,” Millar said. “As we kick off the season at summer development camp next month and introduce the top under-17 players in Canada to the Program of Excellence, we know this staff will help us set the foundation and expectations for our players as we prepare to compete in November and prepare players for future Hockey Canada events.”

Smoskowitz recently completed his first season as head coach of the Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) after serving as an assistant for three seasons (2022-25), leading the Colts to the OHL championship series in 2026. Previously, he served as an assistant with the Toronto Patriots of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) and played five seasons in the OHL with Barrie, the Mississauga Steelheads and Oshawa Generals.

Taylor has spent the past four seasons (2022-26) as an assistant coach with the OHL’s Soo Greyhounds. Prior to joining the Greyhounds, he spent six seasons with the OHL's Mississauga Steelheads as an assistant coach (2017-22) and video coach (2016-17). Taylor was also an assistant coach with the OJHL’s Oakville Blades. Internationally, he won a gold medal as an assistant with Canada Red at the 2025 U17 World Challenge.

<span style="text-decoration: underline"><b>OHL Hockey Operations Staff at Canada's National U17 Development Camp (July 17-21)</b></span>

<strong>Scouting Staff:
</strong>Scott Grieve (Ontario/Erie Otters)
Rob SImpson (Ontario/London Knights)

<strong>Team Red Staff:
</strong>Director of Hockey Ops. - Dave Drinkill (Saginaw Spirit)
Assistant Coach - Brendan Taylor
Video Coach - Ryan Lennon (Kingston Frontenacs)
Equipment Manager - Brandon Grace (Sudbury Wolves)

<strong>Team White Staff:
</strong>Director of Hockey Ops. - Dylan Seca (Sarnia Sting)
Head Coach - Dylan Smoskowitz (Barrie Colts)
Video Coach - Alex Darling (Peterborough Petes)
Equipment Manager - Justin Vanderlaan (Sarnia Sting)

<strong>Camp Staff:
</strong>Guest Coach - Brad Flynn (Kitchener Rangers)
Guest Coach - Brayden Guy (Sarnia Sting)
Guest Goaltending Coach - Nate McDonald (North Bay Battalion)
Guest Athletic Therapist - Luca Paron (London Knights)

Canada’s national under-17 development camp will take place July 17-21 at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex in Oakville and will include practices and six games. Players will continue to be evaluated during the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) season ahead of the 2026 U17 World Challenge.

For more information on Hockey Canada, please visit <a href="http://www.hockeycanada.ca/">HockeyCanada.ca</a>, or follow along through social media on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HockeyCanada/">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/HockeyCanada">X</a>, <a href="http://www.instagram.com/hockeycanada">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@officialhockeycanada?_t=8pQBOPovfRV&amp;_r=1">TikTok</a>.]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>Steelheads sign Ben and Peyton Collins</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/steelheads-sign-ben-peyton-collins</link>
        <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:37:03 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/steelheads-sign-ben-peyton-collins</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<b>BRAMPTON, ON - </b><span style="font-weight: 400">The off-season is in full swing and the Steelheads have made two new additions to their forward group. The Brampton Steelheads announced today the signing of free agents Ben (left) and Peyton (right) Collins to OHL Scholarship and Development Agreements.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Peyton, a native of Nashville, Tennessee, stands at 6-foot-0 and 157 pounds. The forward starred with the Nashville Jr. Predators U16 AAA during the 2025-26 season, recording 22 goals and 52 assists for 74 points in 56 regular season games. A dynamic player with a polished, well-rounded skill set, Peyton has established himself as a reliable offensive threat and playmaker.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Ben, also a Nashville native, stands at 6-foot-0 and 165 pounds. The centreman is known for his natural chemistry with his linemates and ability to efficiently distribute the puck. During the 2025-26 campaign, Ben recorded 23 goals and 35 assists for 58 points in 49 regular season games, showcasing his strong two-way game and offensive instincts. </span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Head Coach and General Manager James Richmond commented after the twins' signing. “We are pleased to announce the signing of the Collins Twins! Both Ben and Peyton bring loads of skill and speed. They play with a high IQ and know where to be all over the ice. We are excited to see Ben and Peyton in Steelheads blue and white soon.”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Together, Peyton and Ben Collins bring a unique connection and chemistry to the Steelheads lineup and will look to make an immediate impact on Brampton’s forward group as they begin their OHL careers. </span>]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>Petes sign goaltender Owen Nelson</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/petes-sign-goaltender-owen-nelson</link>
        <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 15:34:11 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/petes-sign-goaltender-owen-nelson</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[Nelson played in 26 games for the Tri-City Storm of the USHL last season]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<span style="font-weight: 400"><strong>Peterborough, ON -</strong> Petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke announced today that the team has signed 2007-born goaltender Owen Nelson to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">“I’m very excited and honoured to sign with the Peterborough Petes,” exclaimed Nelson. “I can’t wait to get to Peterborough and get the chance to play for one of the most storied franchises in junior hockey and in front of an awesome fan base. I'm looking forward to working hard every day and doing everything I can to help the team achieve its goals. I really appreciate this opportunity from Mr. Oke and the rest of the Petes staff.”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Nelson, a native of Hudson, Wisconsin, appeared in 26 games with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL last season, posting a 2.92 goals-against average (GAA) and a .909 save percentage (SV%). He also saw action in one playoff game, recording a 1.61 GAA and a .955 SV%. During the 2024–25 season, Nelson also played high school hockey for Cretin-Derham Hall in Minnesota, where he earned 20 wins while posting a 1.71 GAA and a .926 SV%. He recently attended the Peterborough Petes' Development Camp as a free-agent invitee.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">“We’re very excited to welcome Owen to the Peterborough Petes,” said Oke. “Owen is a big, athletic goaltender who moves well and is coming off a solid season with Tri-City in the USHL. We had the opportunity to get to know him during Development Camp a couple of weeks ago, and he made a very positive impression on our staff, both on and off the ice.”</span>]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>Rangers sign defenceman Logan Massimi</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/rangers-sign-defenceman-logan-massimi</link>
        <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 14:53:40 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/rangers-sign-defenceman-logan-massimi</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<strong>Kitchener, Ont. —</strong> The Kitchener Rangers are proud to announce that defenceman Logan Massimi has signed an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement with the club.

Massimi, a native of Scarborough, Ontario, was selected in the ninth round, 182nd overall, in the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. The right-shot defenceman joins the organization after spending last season with the Waterloo Siskins of the GOHL, establishing himself as a promising young player with the tools, compete level, and commitment needed to continue developing at the next level.

“Logan had a great year of development in Junior B and was exceptional at our spring camp,” said Kitchener Rangers General Manager, Mike McKenzie. “He has taken big strides since we drafted him. He plays a very well-rounded game, and we see a bright future for him in our program.”

Massimi, 17, born on January 5th, 2009, is listed at six-foot, 182 pounds. In 49 games with the Waterloo Siskins, Massimi recorded two goals and 16 assists, while racking up 47 penalty minutes. Massimi was called up for the Kitchener Rangers final game of the regular season last year against the Owen Sound Attack. He had a +3 plus/minus rating in the game.

Massimi shared his thoughts on what it meant to him signing his Standard Player Agreement with the Kitchener Rangers:
<blockquote>"Signing with Kitchener means the world to me. Getting drafted by the team and having them believe in me was an incredible feeling, and now being able to sign with the organization makes it even more special. It’s hard to put into words how grateful i am for this opportunity.

My past season in GOHL with Waterloo was huge for my development. The staff were amazing and put a lot of trust in me allowing my game to make huge strides. Even just being around the Kitchener-Waterloo community and becoming familiar with the area was amazing seeing all the support that these fans give.

Having the opportunity to be a part of such a great organization like Kitchener is huge, especially coming off of a year like they just had with a Memorial Cup title. It’s big shoes to fill but I’m super excited to get to work and to see what’s in store."</blockquote>
&nbsp;]]></content:encoded>
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                  <title>25 OHL Players Competing at USA Hockey Boys National 17 Festival</title>
        <link>https://chl.ca/ohl/article/25-ohl-players-competing-at-usa-hockey-boys-national-17-festival</link>
        <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:30:57 +0000</pubDate>
        <dc:creator></dc:creator>
        <guid isPermaLink="false">https://chl.ca/ohl/article/25-ohl-players-competing-at-usa-hockey-boys-national-17-festival</guid>
        <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
        <content:encoded><![CDATA[<span style="font-weight: 400">25 OHL players have been invited to take part in the 2026 USA Hockey Boys National 17 Festival, running from July 7-13 at the Northtown Center in Amherst, New York.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">This event gathers top American-born 2009-born players registered with USA Hockey for a week of elite development. While structured as a district-based tournament, the emphasis is on individual growth and showcasing talent through on-ice drills, small-area games, and off-ice training like strength and conditioning, team building, nutrition, and mental skills.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400">Participants will be evaluated for the Hlinka Gretzky Cup Camp, with the top performers earning spots on the 2026 U.S. Under-18 Select Team competing at the prestigious Hlinka Gretzky Cup in August.</span>

&nbsp;

<b>List of OHL Players at the USA Hockey Boys 17 Festival:</b>

<span style="font-size: 10pt"><i><span style="font-weight: 400">(Note: Excludes drafted players who have not signed Standard Player Agreements)</span></i></span>

&nbsp;

<b>Atlantic (3):</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Mason Courville (Flint Firebirds)</span></li>
 	<li>Cody Costello (Oshawa Generals)</li>
 	<li>Braydon Sisco (Sarnia Sting)</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Central (1):</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Sarvir Jaworski (Sarnia Sting)</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Michigan (4):</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Christopher Weiss (Soo Greyhounds)</span></li>
 	<li>Ty Bergeron (Windsor Spitfires)</li>
 	<li>Colby Coombe (Ottawa 67’s)</li>
 	<li>Cole Mazzoni (Oshawa Generals)</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Mid-American (4):</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Aiden Mowrey (Barrie Colts)</span></li>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Mark Pape (Guelph Storm)</span></li>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Nolan Snyder (Kingston Frontenacs)</span></li>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Grant Yingst (Oshawa Generals)</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>New York (8):</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Hagan Bach (Barrie Colts)</span></li>
 	<li>Cam Anderson (Soo Greyhounds)</li>
 	<li>Norman Greene (Sudbury Wolves)</li>
 	<li>Ryan Kaczynski (Soo Greyhounds)</li>
 	<li>Robert Matson (Guelph Storm)</li>
 	<li>Sawyer Schmidt (Saginaw Spirit)</li>
 	<li>Patrik Ula (Sudbury Wolves)</li>
 	<li>Mason Hriczov (Kitchener Rangers)</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Northern Plains (1):</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Landon Jackman (Owen Sound Attack)</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Rocky Mountain (1):</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Michael Tang (Niagara IceDogs)</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<b>Southeastern (3)</b>
<ul>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Drew Roscoe (Saginaw Spirit)</span></li>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Ben Collins (Brampton Steelheads)</span></li>
 	<li><span style="font-weight: 400">Peyton Collins (Brampton Steelheads)</span></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;

<span style="font-weight: 400">For full rosters, schedule and results, </span><a href="https://teamusa.usahockey.com/2026boys17festival"><span style="font-weight: 400">click here</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400">.</span>]]></content:encoded>
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