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2026 Graduating Class: Brantford Bulldogs

Fri, 15 May 2026 23:00:48 +0000

After capturing the Hamilton Spectator Trophy as the Ontario Hockey League’s regular-season champions and advancing to the Eastern Conference Final, the Brantford Bulldogs put together the most successful season in franchise history since relocating. A veteran-heavy lineup played a major role in the club’s success throughout both the regular season and playoffs, helping establish Brantford as one of the league’s top contenders. Now, the Bulldogs prepare to say goodbye to key members of their graduating class as Charlie Paquette and Zackary Sandhu move on from the OHL. Charlie Paquette (Brantford Bulldogs, Guelph Storm – 2021-26) Acquired from the Guelph Storm at the January trade deadline, Charlie Paquette joined Brantford after serving as captain in Guelph. Originally selected in the second round (31st overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, the Essex, Ont. native appeared in 294 regular-season games across four-and-a-half seasons with the Storm, recording 165 points (88-77–165). Following the move to Brantford, Paquette posted 27 points (12-15–27) in 29 regular-season games before adding 11 points (3-8–11) in 15 playoff contests during the Bulldogs’ deep postseason run. Zackary Sandhu (Brantford Bulldogs, Oshawa Generals, Guelph Storm – 2021-26) Acquired from the Oshawa Generals in a major trade at the beginning of the season, Zackary Sandhu arrived in Brantford following a career-best 24-point campaign and consecutive appearances in the OHL Finals. In his lone season with the Bulldogs, Sandhu recorded 14 points (3-11–14) and a career-high 72 shots from the blueline across 53 regular-season games. He also appeared in 62 career postseason contests, the most among any active OHL player this season. The Toronto, Ont. native wrapped up his OHL career with 60 points (17-43–60), 248 penalty minutes, and 248 shots through 242 regular-season games. Originally selected by the Guelph Storm in the seventh round (122nd overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Sandhu developed into a dependable veteran presence on the back end. 2006-born players: * denotes players who are committed to the NCAA for next season Currently, the Brantford Bulldogs feature ten 2006-born players in Jett Luchanko (Philadelphia Flyers), Marek Vanacker (Chicago Blackhawks), Adam Jiricek (St. Louis Blues), Owen Protz (Montreal Canadiens), Ben Danford (Toronto Maple Leafs), Ryder Boulton, Luca Testa, Gabriel Frasca*, David Egorov, and Ryerson Leenders (Buffalo Sabres).

Spirit sign defenceman Kade Meyer

Fri, 15 May 2026 18:13:33 +0000

Saginaw, Mich.- Spirit GM Dave Drinkill announced Friday morning that the team has signed free agent defenseman Kade Meyer to a Standard Player Agreement. “Kade caught our eye last summer while playing for Team USA at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup,” said Drinkill. “He is very strong and plays the game hard with a competitiveness that you can’t teach. Kade skates very well, is extremely mobile, and is a great transporter of pucks up ice. We’re excited that the Meyer family picked Saginaw out of all their options for next season and can’t wait to see Kade on the ice.” A left-shot defenseman from Minocqua, WI, Meyer clocks in at 5’9”, 181lbs. His 2025-2026 season was split between the NAHL’s Janesville Jets (1G-4A—5P, 20GP) and USHL’s Waterloo Black Hawks (1G-4A—5P, 22GP). Last summer, Meyer joined Saginaw’s Levi Harper and Nikita Klepov for Team USA’s gold medal victory at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in Brno, Czechia and Trencin, Slovakia. “I’m incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the Saginaw Spirit organization,” said Meyer. “From the culture to the fan support, it’s a place that feels built for winning and development. I’m ready to come in, work hard every day, compete at a high level, and do whatever it takes to help the team succeed. I believe I can bring energy, consistency, and a team-first mentality both on and off the ice, and I can’t wait to get started in Saginaw.” The 2008-born Meyer spent his 16U season with the Detroit Little Caesars program, scoring 13G-31A—44P in 60 games during 2024-2025. That year, he would also see time with the U.S. National Team Development Program.

OHL Linesperson Brian Birkhoff Selected to Officiate 2026 IIHF World Championship

Fri, 15 May 2026 13:05:56 +0000

Toronto, Ont. - The Ontario Hockey League is pleased to congratulate linesperson Brian Birkhoff on being selected by the International Ice Hockey Federation to officiate at the 2026 IIHF World Championship in Switzerland. The tournament begins Friday and runs through May 31, with games taking place in Zurich and Fribourg as the world’s top hockey nations compete for gold. Birkhoff has just completed his fourth season working in the Ontario Hockey League and continues to rise through the officiating ranks at both the national and international levels. This marks his first assignment at the IIHF World Championship. “Brian’s selection is a tremendous accomplishment and something the entire league is proud of,” said OHL Director of Officiating Conrad Haché. “He has earned every opportunity through consistency, professionalism, and his ability to perform in high-pressure environments. Brian’s growth over a short period of time has been impressive, and this assignment is another significant milestone in what has become a very strong officiating career.” Birkhoff previously worked the 2025 IIHF Under-18 Men’s World Championship in Texas and has built an extensive resume that includes the 2024 CHL USA Prospects Challenge in London, the 2023 Memorial Cup during his first OHL season, the OUA Queen’s Cup Championship, and the 2024 U SPORTS National Championship in Ottawa. Alongside his OHL responsibilities, Birkhoff has also completed his third season working in the American Hockey League, beginning in 2023-24. Before transitioning into officiating, Birkhoff played three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League between the Ottawa 67’s and Peterborough Petes from 2008-11. Originally selected by Ottawa in the 11th round of the OHL Priority Selection, the Richmond Hill, Ont. native earned a spot on the 67’s roster out of his second training camp. Following his playing career, Birkhoff began his transition into officiating through the Greater Toronto Hockey League while also serving as a player safety officer in the Swiss National League. The 2026 IIHF World Championship officiating crew features 32 officials representing 12 countries, with Sweden leading the way with five selections. Canada, Finland, and the United States each have four officials assigned to the tournament. “This is the first step in us preparing for the next Winter Olympics,” said IIHF Head of Officiating Scott Zelkin. “We’re gearing up and giving our officials an opportunity to get to the next Olympics.” The Ontario Hockey League continues to serve as an important development path for officials working toward the highest levels of international hockey.

2026 Graduating Class: Barrie Colts

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:30:20 +0000

After capturing the Bobby Orr Trophy as the Eastern Conference champions and advancing all the way to the OHL Final, the Barrie Colts enjoyed one of the franchise’s most successful seasons in recent memory, with several veteran players playing key roles throughout the club’s playoff run and regular-season success. The Colts now prepare to say goodbye to members of their graduating class as Brad Gardiner, Mason Zebeski and Calvin Crombie move on from the OHL. Brad Gardiner (Barrie Colts, Ottawa 67’s – 2021-2026) Acquired from the Ottawa 67's in an offseason deal ahead of the 2024-25 campaign, Brad Gardiner arrived in Barrie following a career-best 49-point season. Since joining the Barrie Colts, the Dallas Stars prospect surpassed that total with 65 points (31-34–65) in 67 regular-season games, finishing fourth on the team in scoring. His 31 goals ranked second on the club, just two behind team leader Cole Beaudoin. Gardiner also delivered one of Barrie’s biggest playoff moments, scoring the overtime winner in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Final. The 21-year-old Aurora, Ont. native wrapped up his OHL career with 198 points (87-111–198) across 321 regular-season games. Originally selected by Ottawa in the third round (40th overall) of the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Gardiner was later drafted by the Dallas Stars in the third round (79th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft. He also earned the Roger Neilson Memorial Award this season, presented annually to the OHL’s Top Academic Post-Secondary Student, after posting a 90 percent average. https://twitter.com/FloHockey/status/2050040696992604601 Mason Zebeski (Barrie Colts, Mississauga/Brampton Steelheads – 2022-2026) Acquired from the Brampton Steelheads at the January trade deadline, Mason Zebeski joined Barrie after serving as captain of the Steelheads. Originally selected in the 11th round (208th overall) of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, the Oakville, Ont. native appeared in 217 regular-season games over four seasons with Mississauga/Brampton, recording 106 points (56-50–106). With the Colts, Zebeski contributed 18 points (6-12–18) in 29 regular-season games before elevating his play during Barrie’s Eastern Conference Championship run. He registered 17 playoff points (3-14–17), highlighted by the dramatic Game 6 overtime winner against the Brantford Bulldogs in the Eastern Conference Final. The 6-foot-2 winger is committed to the University of New Hampshire for next season. https://twitter.com/OHLHockey/status/2050769841003397139 Calvin Crombie (Barrie Colts, Brantford Bulldogs – 2023-2026) Acquired from the Brantford Bulldogs in an offseason trade, Calvin Crombie joined the Colts ahead of the 2025-26 season. The Hamilton, Ont. product originally signed with Brantford as a free agent prior to the 2023-24 campaign. Over 175 career regular-season games, Crombie recorded 92 points (31-61–92). This season, he nearly doubled his previous career goal total by scoring 11 times, while also adding 10 playoff points (3-7–10) during Barrie’s postseason run. Crombie is committed to Robert Morris University for next season. https://twitter.com/OHLBarrieColts/status/2038062343096070245 2006-born players: * denotes players who are committed to the NCAA for next season Currently, the Barrie Colts feature nine 2006-born players in co-captains Cole Beaudoin (Utah Mammoth) and Kashawn Aitcheson (New York Islanders), along with Emil Hemming (Dallas Stars), Gabriel Eliasson (Ottawa Senators), Evan Passmore (New York Rangers), Ben Wilmott*, Carter Lowe, Parker von Richter* and Ben Hrebik.

Storm name Spencer Segriff Head Equipment Manager

Thu, 14 May 2026 21:32:06 +0000

General Manager George Burnett announced that Spencer Segriff has been named Head Equipment Manager for the upcoming season.

“We are pleased to add Spencer to our staff,” said Burnett. “Spencer comes highly recommended and brings a wealth of experience from his time with two top programs.”

For the past two seasons, the Courtice, ON native previously worked as the Assistant Equipment Manager with the Oshawa Generals. Prior to his time with the Generals, Segriff held the position of Head Equipment Manager for the Ontario Tech University Men’s Hockey Team for three seasons.

“I am extremely honoured to be joining such a respected organization in Guelph,” said Segriff. “I am excited for the opportunity to contribute to the team during such an important season, and I cannot wait to get started.”

Former Otter Matthew Schaefer Claims NHL Rookie of the Year Honours

Thu, 14 May 2026 19:58:33 +0000

On Wednesday, former Erie Otters defenceman Matthew Schaefer officially became the NHL’s top rookie, capturing the 2026 Calder Memorial Trophy following one of the most remarkable rookie campaigns by an 18-year-old defenceman in league history. He also became the youngest winner in league history and the first unanimous recipient of the award since Teemu Selanne in 1993. While the hockey world watched Schaefer rewrite NHL record books with the New York Islanders, his path to stardom truly began in Erie. Selected first overall by the Otters in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection, Schaefer immediately arrived with lofty expectations, becoming just the third player in franchise history to be taken first overall, joining OHL alumni Ryan O’Reilly and Connor McDavid. He was also the first defenceman ever selected first overall by the organization. From the moment he entered the league, Schaefer showcased the elite skating, composure, and hockey sense that would later define his NHL rookie season. During his first OHL campaign in 2023-24, he recorded 17 points (3-14–17) in 56 games while earning OHL All-Rookie First Team honours. Beyond the numbers, he quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier young two-way defencemen, trusted in all situations against top competition night after night. The OHL’s development environment also helped prepare Schaefer for success on the international stage. While starring in Erie, he captained Team Canada White to gold at the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge before later capturing another gold medal with Canada’s Under-18 team. By the start of the 2024-25 season, Schaefer had cemented himself as one of the top prospects for the upcoming NHL Draft. Before his season was cut short by injury following the World Junior Championship, he was producing at better than a point-per-game pace from the Otters’ blue line with 22 points (7-15–22) in just 17 games. Despite suffering a broken collarbone at the World Juniors that ended both his tournament and OHL season, Schaefer’s draft stock never wavered. The Islanders selected him first overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, confident that the habits, maturity, and complete game he developed in Erie would translate seamlessly to the professional level. Schaefer delivered a historic rookie campaign in New York, tying Brian Leetch’s NHL record for goals by a rookie defenceman with 23 while posting 59 points, the most ever by an 18-year-old defenceman in NHL history. He also became the youngest defenceman to record a multi-goal game and the youngest player in NHL history to score an overtime goal. But beyond the records, Schaefer’s success reflects the developmental path the OHL continues to provide for elite young players. From handling major minutes against NHL-calibre competition to developing leadership qualities, learning how to manage adversity, and competing under the pressure that comes with being a top prospect, Schaefer’s time in Erie helped prepare him for hockey’s biggest stage. The OHL has long been recognized as one of the premier development leagues in the world, and Schaefer’s Calder Trophy victory adds another chapter to that legacy. Related Articles:

OHL mourns the loss of Don Harkins

Thu, 14 May 2026 19:50:03 +0000

The Ontario Hockey League is deeply saddened by the passing of longtime scout and hockey executive Don "Donnie" Harkins, who has passed away in his 61st year. Most recently serving as a scout for the Flint Firebirds, Harkins was a dedicated fixture in the hockey community with a career that spanned decades.

Harkins’ tenure in the OHL dates back to 2008 when he joined the Plymouth Whalers as a scout. His keen eye for talent and dedication to the game saw him eventually rise to the position of Director of Scouting for the club, making him an invaluable asset to the Whalers and, later, the Firebirds organization.

Beyond his work in scouting, Harkins made a significant impact on the game in player representation early in his career. He notably served as a player agent for standout defenceman Ed Jovanovski during his rise to prominence with the Windsor Spitfires, guiding the young star as he became the first overall selection in the 1994 NHL Draft.

Originally from North Ridgeville, Ohio, Harkins was part of a deeply rooted hockey family. His passion for the sport was shared closely with his brothers, Todd and Brett, who both went on to play in the National Hockey League. That family legacy continues today with his nephew, Jansen Harkins, currently playing for the Anaheim Ducks. Harkins had most recently been residing in Naples, Florida.

The Ontario Hockey League extends its deepest condolences to the Harkins family, the Flint Firebirds organization, and Don’s many friends and colleagues throughout the hockey world during this difficult time.

OHL Overtime Heroes Program Donates $45,000 to Charitable Causes During 2026 Playoffs

Thu, 14 May 2026 18:09:23 +0000

TORONTO - The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is proud to announce that the returning OHL Overtime Heroes program, benefitting OHL Assists, has raised a remarkable $45,000 for meaningful local community organizations during the 2026 OHL Playoffs presented by Nissan.

This year's fundraising total marks a significant increase from the $28,500 donated last spring, continuing to amplify the positive impact OHL players have off the ice.

The initiative's mechanics are simple yet impactful: for every overtime goal scored during the playoffs, a donation is made on behalf of the goal-scorer directly to a charity or not-for-profit organization of their choosing.

To reflect the growing intensity of the postseason, the donation amounts increased with each passing round:

Round 1: $2,000 per overtime winner
Round 2: $3,000 per overtime winner
Conference Finals: $4,000 per overtime winner
OHL Championship Series: $5,000 per overtime winner
Bonus: A $2,500 bonus for any overtime goal scored to decide a series in a Game 7.

2026 Program Highlights & Results

The OHL champion Kitchener Rangers led the charge in charitable giving this postseason, securing $20,000 in total contributions. Their clutch overtime performances will directly benefit Andrew’s Ambition spearheaded by teammate Andrew MacNiel, supporting critical paediatric cancer research through the SickKids Foundation.

The league has begun processing the final distributions to ensure these vital funds reach their designated charities in short order.

Below is the comprehensive breakdown of the $45,000 raised throughout the 2026 OHL Playoffs:

March 27 - Peterborough's Kieron Walton ($2,000 to Marentette's Mission) March 28 - Niagara's Hayden Reid ($2,000 to Niagara Health - South Niagara Hospital) March 29 - Peterborough's Kieron Walton ($2,000 to Marentette's Mission) March 29 - Sault Ste. Marie's Brady Martin ($2,000 to Special Olympics Ontario) March 31 - Brantford's Marek Vanacker ($2,000 to Brant Food for Thought) March 31 - Kitchener's Luca Romano ($2,000 to Andrew's Ambition) March 31 - Sault Ste. Marie's Carson Andrew ($2,000 to Special Olympics Ontario) April 4 - North Bay's Parker Vaughan ($2,000 to Special Olympics Ontario) April 12 - Brantford's Ben Danford ($3,000 to Brant Food for Thought) April 24 - Kitchener's Sam O'Reilly ($4,000 to Andrew's Ambition) April 30 - Barrie's Brad Gardiner ($4,000 to Easter Seals Ontario) May 1 - Kitchener's Dylan Edwards ($4,000 to Andrew's Ambition) May 2 - Barrie's Mason Zebeski ($4,000 to Easter Seals Ontario) May 8 - Kitchener's Matthew Andonovski ($5,000 to Andrew's Ambition) May 10 - Kitchener's Dylan Edwards ($5,000 to Andrew's Ambition)

The OHL extends its sincere gratitude to the players, fans, and participating organizations for making the 2026 OHL Overtime Heroes program a resounding success.

For more information on OHL Assists and to keep up with the league's community initiatives, follow along on our social media channels on X, Facebook, and Instagram.

OHL Board of Governors Approves Transfer of Ownership of Owen Sound Attack Hockey Club

Thu, 14 May 2026 15:00:11 +0000

TORONTO (Thursday, May 14, 2026) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that, following a meeting of the OHL Board of Governors, the League has approved the transfer of ownership of the Owen Sound Attack Hockey Club to Ecological Dynamic Sports Partners (EDSP) led by Tyler Nother and Donald McClure. A press conference will be held at 11:00am on Friday, May 15 in the Bay Room at the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre. A former Memorial Cup champion with the Windsor Spitfires who has most recently served as an NHLPA certified player agent, Nother will assume the roles of President and Governor of the Attack, focused on all aspects of the club’s hockey strategy, player development, and competitive direction. Joining him is McClure, Managing Partner and President of EDSP, who brings over 20 years of experience as a founder, CEO, and entrepreneur to the Attack’s ownership team. “We are excited to welcome Tyler Nother as the leader of this next phase of hockey in Owen Sound,” said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. “Tyler has built a reputation over many years as someone deeply committed to the player experience and to the long-term health of our league. He is perfectly positioned to lead this new chapter of the Owen Sound Attack, and we are proud to have him as a partner in the OHL.” Owen Sound has been home to OHL hockey since 1989, with the ownership group of Dr. Bob Severs along with Peter and Paul MacDermid having overseen operations of the Attack since the year 2000 when they purchased the franchise as part of a group that also consisted of Brian Johnson as well as the late Frank Coulter and Fay Harshman. Throughout their ownership tenure, the Attack have produced NHL stars such as Bobby Ryan, Jordan Binnington and Nick Suzuki, with the club winning a J. Ross Robertson Cup title in 2011. “The League has deep gratitude for the stewardship of Dr. Bob Severs, along with Peter and Paul MacDermid,” said Crawford. “Their commitment ensured that Owen Sound consistently had a team the community could be proud of, both on and off the ice. We thank them for their years of dedication and for identifying such a strong successor ownership group to continue building the Attack in Owen Sound.” Dr. Severs will continue in a leadership role as Head of Business Operations and Community Relations, ensuring continuity and a sustained commitment to Owen Sound. Peter and Paul MacDermid will also support the team in advisory capacities. The upcoming 2026-27 campaign will mark the 37th season of OHL hockey in Owen Sound. For additional information on the Attack’s new ownership group, click here.

Rangers’ Sam O’Reilly claims Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as OHL Playoff MVP

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:11:49 +0000

BARRIE - Tampa Bay Lightning prospect Sam O'Reilly of the Kitchener Rangers is this year's recipient of the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award as Most Valuable Player of the OHL Playoffs. The award is determined by votes cast by accredited writers and broadcasters covering the Championship Series. O'Reilly potted an empty-net goal to seal a 4-2 final in Tuesday's Game 4 at Sadlon Arena, giving him a club-leading 17 goals and 28 points over 18 playoff games. He won 57.7% of his faceoffs throughout the postseason and was integral in Kitchener producing an outstanding penalty kill that functioned at 88.7%. O'Reilly joins former London Knights teammate Easton Cowan (2024) in becoming a dual winner of the Red Tilson Trophy as the OHL's Most Outstanding Player and Wayne Gretzky 99 Award in the same season. O'Reilly is the third player in Rangers history to win the Wayne Gretzky 99 Award following Justin Azevedo (2008) and Derek Roy (2003). Wayne Gretzky 99 Award winners: 2026 – Sam O'Reilly (Kitchener Rangers) 2025 – Kasper Halttunen (London Knights) 2024 – Easton Cowan (London Knights) 2023 – Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes) 2022 – Logan Morrison (Hamilton Bulldogs) 2019 – Nick Suzuki (Guelph Storm) 2018 – Robert Thomas (Hamilton Bulldogs) 2017 – Warren Foegele (Erie Otters) 2016 – Mitchell Marner (London Knights) 2015 – Connor McDavid (Erie Otters) 2014 – Robby Fabbri (Guelph Storm) 2013 – Bo Horvat (London Knights) 2012 – Austin Watson (London Knights) 2011 – Robby Mignardi (Owen Sound Attack) 2010 – Adam Henrique (Windsor Spitfires) 2009 – Taylor Hall (Windsor Spitfires) 2008 – Justin Azevedo (Kitchener Rangers) 2007 – Marc Staal (Sudbury Wolves) 2006 – Daniel Ryder (Peterborough Petes) 2005 – Corey Perry (London Knights) 2004 – Martin St. Pierre (Guelph Storm) 2003 – Derek Roy (Kitchener Rangers) 2002 – Brad Boyes (Erie Otters) 2001 – Seamus Kotyk (Ottawa 67’s) 2000 – Brian Finley (Barrie Colts) 1999 – Justin Papineau (Belleville Bulls)