Ontario Hockey League - Feed

2026 OHL Awards – Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy Finalists

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:00:23 +0000

TORONTO - The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced finalists for the Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy, an award that recognizes the OHL team captain that best exemplifies leadership on and off the ice, with a passion and dedication to the game of hockey in his community. Nomination forms are submitted annually by OHL General Managers on behalf of their individual team captains. The selection committee consists of a panel of four, representing media from each OHL division. This year's Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy Finalists include: Jake O'Brien (C, Brantford Bulldogs) Following in the footsteps of great Bulldogs captains in Lawson Sherk and Patrick Thomas, Jake O'Brien had a tremendous season, leading the OHL in points-per-game with 1.75. The Bulldogs' career record-holder in assists (182) and points (255), O'Brien has been a regular attendee of school visits, engaging students on the importance of being a good teammate, a leader, and encouraging them to pursue their dreams. He's also participated in visits to the Brant County Hospital, organized team charitable donations and with Vintage Apparel co., used his NHL Draft status in 2025 to lead a charitable campaign selling shirts and donating the proceeds. The former OHL Cup MVP was chosen eighth overall by the Seattle Kraken in the 2025 NHL Draft. Nathan Aspinall (LW, Flint Firebirds) Setting a new Flint Firebirds single season assist record with 61, Nathan Aspinall wore the 'C' for the most successful season in the club's 10-year history. The 6-foot-7, 207Ib. winger demonstrated a unique ability to elevate those around him and make his teammates better through both his performance and communication. From a 29-game rookie season in 2022-23 that saw him as a healthy scratch on many nights, Aspinall's positivity, determination and commitment to improvement have seen him develop into one of the League's premier power forwards. Throughout the season, Aspinall participated in charitable events including ball hockey initiatives, hospital visits, fan engagement opportunities and youth hockey practices. He consistently took time to sign autographs, take photos and connect with fans and his positive attitude makes him an outstanding ambassador for the Firebirds organization and the OHL. Aspinall was a fifth round pick of the New York Rangers in the 2024 NHL Draft. Brady Martin (C, Soo Greyhounds) Producing a point-per-game through an injury-shortened season, Nashville Predators first round pick Brady Martin won a bronze medal with Canada at the 2026 World Juniors, and provided leadership for the Soo Greyhounds, who won 39 games in 2025-26. Exemplifying the values of hard work, respect, humility and perseverance formed through his upbringing on the family farm in Elmira, ON, Martin has been instrumental in carrying-on a culture of excellence in Sault Ste. Marie. This season, Martin participated in a community initiative inspired by the Hounds' Academic Advisors that saw him make weekly visits to the Great Northern Retirement Home to interact with the seniors living there. He enjoyed playing cards and talking with the residents, building relationships throughout the season. Martin was also part of visits to a daycare centre to interact with three and four-year-olds, reading a Robert Munsch hockey book before playing mini sticks with the children. Whether it's on the ice or out in the community, Martin takes pride in being a Greyhound. Liam Greentree (LW, Windsor Spitfires) Last year's recipient of the Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy, Liam Greentree continued to lead the way for the Spitfires, who emerged as West Division champions for a second straight season. With his rights dealt to the New York Rangers midway through the season in a deal that saw Los Angeles acquire forward Artemi Panarin, Greentree finished his fourth OHL campaign with 74 points (38-36--74) over 52 games and won a bronze medal with Canada at the 2026 World Juniors. The first player to arrive at the rink and the last one to leave, Greentree took the step of being more involved in the community this past season. In addition to volunteering at minor hockey practices, he took a lead role in the team's participation in the Goodfellows paper drive, helping raise $2500 to support local people in need of assistance with food and housing. Greentree finished the season third in Spitfires franchise all-time goal-scoring with 148 over his four-year career.

OHL Alumni – Beyond the Rink: Steve Bisson

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:53:37 +0000

Former OHL Team(s): Soo Greyhounds, Cornwall Royals, NorthBay Centennials Years in the OHL: 1985-1989 Current Occupation: Territory Sales Representative Steve Bisson’s journey from the Ontario Hockey League to the wine and spirits industry is one built on discipline, passion, and a commitment to continuous growth. After his time in the OHL, Bisson continued to play hockey at the professional level, appearing in a few games in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Sherbrooke Canadiens and later in the International Hockey League with the Fort Wayne Komets. He also represented Team Canada at the 1990-91 Spengler Cup, earning a silver medal on the international stage. From the Ice to Industry “I had always wanted to get into the Wine & Spirits business, so I studied to become a sommelier. This helped me to get into the industry.” That decision led him to Algonquin College, where he pursued his sommelier certification while continuing to build on his academic foundation. A Student of the Game and Beyond Bisson’s time in the OHL helped shape both his athletic and academic mindset. “I had been a dedicated student in the OHL. Once I was done with high school, I began taking university courses.” Today, he applies that same discipline in his role as a Territory Sales Representative, working closely with licensees and LCBO locations to develop product listings and organize tastings with staff and ownership groups. Shaped by the Game For Bisson, the lessons learned in the OHL continue to influence his everyday life. “One of the greatest values that still impacts me today is discipline and dedication to your craft. Always wanting to get better.” Those habits, developed during his junior career, have remained a constant in both his professional and personal pursuits. A Memorable Moment “Probably my fondest memory is getting a hat trick as a defenceman in my third year in Cornwall against the Toronto Marlies.” An Enduring Influence Bisson credits former assistant coach Brent Loney as someone who had a lasting impact on his career. “He was always positive and helpful, but truly wanted me to be successful. He gave me the confidence I needed to succeed. We are close friends even today.” A Lifelong Brotherhood Even years removed from his playing days, Bisson values the relationships formed through the OHL. “It’s a great opportunity to run into former players and stay in touch. It’s such a close-knit fraternity. We all enjoy hearing from each other.” Life Today Away from work, Bisson continues to stay active, carrying forward the same lifestyle he developed as an athlete. “I play pickup hockey, work out at the gym, and play tennis and pickleball. I’m extremely active, and I think it’s because that’s what I was always used to when I was young.” Above all, his greatest pride lies with his family. “Today, I’m most proud of my two sons, Ben and Cam. They’ve grown up to be such great human beings. Both are engaged, so extremely exciting times.” Advice for the Next Generation “Follow your passion with dedication, hard work and commitment. Those three words will help you in achieving your goals and showing employers your true worth.”

Haoxi Wang Selected to Team China’s Roster for 2026 IIHF World Championship

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:30:23 +0000

China has unveiled its 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division I, Group B tournament roster, which includes Niagara IceDogs defenceman Haoxi Wang, marking his international debut for China. Wang appeared in 57 games this past season between the Oshawa Generals and Niagara IceDogs, recording 26 points (6-20–26) from the blueline. He was also selected in the second round (33rd overall) by the San Jose Sharks in last summer’s NHL Draft, becoming the highest Chinese-born player ever selected. He is set to join Boston University in the NCAA next season. Hosting the tournament, China opened play on Wednesday morning, falling 7-4 to South Korea, with Wang scoring in the loss. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ The 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division I, Group B is set to take place from April 29-May 5, in Shenzhen, China, where six nations – Romania, South Korea, Estonia, China, Spain, and the Netherlands – will compete for promotion. For more information on the 2026 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship Division I, Group B, please visit the official tournament website at IIHF.com.

Schedule announced for 2026 OHL Championship Series Presented by Nissan

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:57:36 +0000

TORONTO - The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has officially announced the schedule for the 2026 OHL Championship Series presented by Nissan. The League's top two teams will battle for the 114th J. Ross Robertson Cup, with all the highly anticipated action set to be broadcast on TSN and streaming live on FloHockey. The stage is currently being set in the penultimate round of the playoffs, as four teams vie for their spot in the Championship Series. Western Conference Championship Series (Wayne Gretzky Trophy): The Kitchener Rangers and Windsor Spitfires enter tonight's Game 4 in Windsor with the Rangers currently holding a 2-1 series lead. Eastern Conference Championship Series (Bobby Orr Trophy): The Brantford Bulldogs defeated the Barrie Colts 6-1 in Tuesday's Game 4, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead. Regardless of which two teams advance to the final round, the dates for the championship clash are locked in. Schedule for the 2026 OHL Championship Series presented by Nissan (Host cities and exact matchups to be determined upon the conclusion of the Conference Championships) Game 1: Wednesday, May 6 at 7:00pm Game 2: Friday, May 8 at 7:00pm Game 3: Sunday, May 10 at 6:00pm Game 4: Tuesday, May 12 at 7:00pm Game 5: Thursday, May 14 at 7:00pm (if necessary) Game 6: Saturday, May 16 at 6:00pm (if necessary) Game 7: Monday, May 18 – Time TBA (if necessary) Additional broadcast details will be announced in the coming days

Seven OHL-Affiliated Players Capture the Buckland Cup with Toronto Patriots

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:18:11 +0000

Seven OHL-affiliated players captured the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) title on Saturday, winning the Buckland Cup with the Toronto Patriots. The Patriots secured the championship in Game 5 of the best-of-seven series, earning a decisive 5-2 victory. Newmarket opened the scoring with a power-play goal from Lucas Teixeira (Guelph/Oshawa) in the first period, but the Patriots quickly answered with a tally from Tommy Karmiris (Brantford) and never trailed again. Cole Cooksey (Niagara) extended the lead with his 15th goal of the postseason, while Tate Collins (Barrie) sealed the win with an empty-net marker in the final minutes. With the victory, the Patriots advance to the 2026 Centennial Cup, representing the OJHL on the national stage in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, from May 7-17. Toronto will compete against champions from the eight other CJHL member leagues, along with host Summerside Western Capitals, for the National Junior A Championship. Players with OHL Ties on Toronto Patriots

Tate Collins (Barrie)
Bodhi Ryan (Sudbury)
Tommy Karmiris (Brantford)
Luke Howard (Barrie)
Cole Cooksey (Niagara)
Kyle Morey (Kitchener/Barrie)
Nico Armellin (Barrie)

https://twitter.com/OJHLOfficial/status/2048446595402797321

Greyhounds and John Dean mutually agree to part ways

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:57:21 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The Soo Greyhounds Hockey Club announced today that the organization and Head Coach John Dean have mutually agreed to part ways.

Dean served as Head Coach of the Greyhounds since originally being hired by the club on July 12, 2018, and played an important role in the development of the team both on and off the ice during his tenure.

He served as the franchise’s longest-serving Head Coach (8 years, 7 seasons) while guiding the Hounds to an overall regular season record of 245-178-31-18 in 472 games.

“We would like to thank John for his time as our Head Coach and the impact he had on our players and organization,” said General Manager Kyle Raftis. “He carried himself as a true professional every day and made a lasting impression on so many of our players and staff through his passion and work ethic. As his coaching career continues, there is little doubt he will go on to do great things. We wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”

Tim Lukenda, President and Governor, added, “John is a high character individual that represented our organization well at all times. We appreciated John’s passion and dedication and wish him personal and professional success as he moves forward to his next opportunity.”

The organization will begin the process of identifying its next Head Coach immediately.

Further updates will be provided as they become available.

OHL mourns the loss of John Garrett

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:06 +0000

The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is deeply saddened by the passing of former Memorial Cup champion Peterborough Petes goaltender, long-time NHL netminder, and beloved hockey broadcaster John Garrett. He was 74.

Born in Trenton, ON, Garrett’s journey through the game took a foundational step in Peterborough, where he developed his skills with the Petes, was a two-time OHA Goaltender of the Year and won a Memorial Cup title before turning professional in 1971.

Garrett went on to enjoy a 13-season professional career spanning both the World Hockey Association (WHA) and the National Hockey League (NHL). He played for the Hartford Whalers, Quebec Nordiques, and Vancouver Canucks, consistently stopping shots from some of the most prolific forwards and defencemen of his era. A memorable highlight of his playing days came in 1983 when he was named the Canucks' lone representative at the NHL All-Star Game.

Following his retirement from the crease in 1985, Garrett seamlessly transitioned into the broadcast booth, where he truly became a household name. Affectionately known as "Cheech," his encyclopedic hockey knowledge and authentic warmth endeared him to fans from coast to coast. Over a broadcasting career spanning four decades, he served as a premier colour commentator for Hockey Night in Canada and Sportsnet, becoming the definitive voice of the Vancouver Canucks for over 20 years.

The entire OHL extends its thoughts and condolences to the Garrett family and all those who loved John.

2026 OHL Awards – Spitfires’ Woodall named OHL Humanitarian of the Year

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:00:07 +0000

TORONTO - The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that Windsor Spitfires defenceman Carson Woodall is this year's recipient of the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy, presented annually to the OHL Humanitarian of the Year. Woodall has made charitable contributions to cancer research in excess of $175,000 through his Woody's Hoodies initiative, a cause near and dear to his heart. The initiative was inspired by Woodall's two grandmothers, including the late Nana O'Brien and in support of Nana Woodall, who has also battled cancer. His creative fundraising endeavours have included engaging minor hockey tournaments, partnering with teams, schools and local businesses as well as rappelling down one of Windsor's tallest buildings on two separate occasions. While hoodies are Woodall's most sought after line of fundraising apparel, he's ventured into other creative styles such as pucks, stickers and drink koozies. "We did a lot in the community for cancer research in honour of my grandma," said Woodall of the honour. "I'm just hoping that this can bring some awareness to it and we can do more with Woody's Hoodies in the future. I'm thankful for all of the support I've received and have really enjoyed doing this work." Named the 2025 Youth Philanthropist of the Year by the Windsor-Essex Community Foundation, Woodall's charitable efforts have benefitted causes such as Play for a Cure, the Windsor Cancer Foundation and Erie Shores Hospice. His iconic "Woody's Hoodies" can be seen throughout Windsor-Essex as he continues to roll out new customized designs and has sold more than 5,500 items including over 4,800 hoodies. He becomes the first player in Windsor Spitfires history to be named OHL Humanitarian of the Year. "Carson is a local product who developed through the LaSalle Vipers of the GOHL, growing into a Defenceman of the Year finalist," said Spitfires General Manager Bill Bowler. "His initiative with Woody’s Hoodies also speaks volumes about his character and the values instilled by his family. He’s not only made an impact on the ice, but in the community as well, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of." A former 10th round pick by the Spitfires in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection, Woodall stepped up his offensive production this past season, finishing with 12 goals, 51 assists and 63 points over 68 games to be named an OHL Defenceman of the Year finalist. The Belle River native was the OHL Defenceman of the Month for October, and finished his fourth OHL season with 21 goals, 109 assists and 130 points over 194 games in a Spitfires uniform. Woodall placed second in OHL Coaches Poll voting as the Western Conference's most improved player, as well as best offensive defenceman. He recently announced a commitment to Boston College (NCAA). Each year the OHL awards a player that has demonstrated outstanding qualities as a positive role model in the community with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy. The Ontario Hockey League Board of Governors announced in 2004 that the OHL Humanitarian of the Year award would be named in recognition of the former Owen Sound Platers captain, who was twice named his team’s Humanitarian of the Year in recognition of his tremendous efforts in supporting community activities. Woodall emerged as this year's award winner from a group of finalists also consisting of David Egorov of the Brantford Bulldogs, Tristen Trevino of the Erie Otters, Thanasi Marentette of the Peterborough Petes and Beckham Edwards of the Sarnia Sting. Woodall will be formally presented with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy at the 2026 OHL Awards Ceremony this June at The Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. For a full history of OHL award winners, click here.

DiPietro Named AHL MVP After Dominant 2025-26 Season

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 17:54:06 +0000

The American Hockey League (AHL) has announced that Ontario Hockey League (OHL) alumnus goaltender Michael DiPietro of the Providence Bruins has been named the recipient of the Les Cunningham Award as the league’s most valuable player for the 2025–26 season. The honour follows back-to-back Baz Bastien Awards as the AHL’s outstanding goaltender, with DiPietro building on a career year in 2024-25 by elevating his performance even further this season. He posted a 34-8-1 record while leading the league in goals-against average (1.91), save percentage (.930), and wins (34). He also ranked fifth in minutes played (2,644), shots faced (1,202), and saves (1,118). DiPietro opened the season with seven straight wins and went 14-1-0 over a two-month stretch from Jan. 17 to Mar. 14. He allowed two goals or fewer in 33 of his 45 appearances, backstopping the Bruins to the MacGregor Kilpatrick Trophy as regular-season champions. He also made his second appearance at the AHL All-Star Classic in February and was named a First Team AHL All-Star for the second consecutive year. The 26-year-old Windsor, Ont., native spent four seasons in the OHL, primarily with the Windsor Spitfires, before finishing his junior career with the Ottawa 67’s. In 2016–17, DiPietro helped lead the Spitfires to a Memorial Cup championship, earning the Hap Emms Memorial Trophy as the tournament’s top goaltender after going 4-0 with a 2.00 goals-against average and a .932 save percentage. Across 174 regular-season games, he compiled a 98-53-8-5 record, along with a 2.52 goals-against average, .913 save percentage, and a league-record 19 shutouts, a mark that still stands. Selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the third round of the 2017 NHL Draft, DiPietro has appeared in four career NHL games, including one this season with Boston. Over 190 AHL games across seven professional seasons with Providence, Abbotsford, and Utica, he has posted a 118-50-14 record, along with a 2.39 goals-against average, .918 save percentage, and 12 shutouts. https://twitter.com/AHLBruins/status/2047764758804234550

Former Frontenac Vitali Pinchuk Signs with Nashville Predators

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:59:12 +0000

The Nashville Predators of the National Hockey League (NHL) announced this afternoon that the club has signed forward Vitali Pinchuk to a one-year, entry-level contract for the 2026-27 season. A native of Zhlobin, Belarus, Pinchuk spent the 2019-20 campaign with the Kingston Frontenacs of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), recording 34 points (13-21–34) in 54 games. He most recently skated with Dinamo Minsk of the Kontinental Hockey League (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. Undrafted, Pinchuk made his KHL debut in October 2020 and has since totalled 145 points (73-72–145) in 252 career regular-season games, along with 22 points (9-13–22) in 28 playoff appearances. https://twitter.com/PredsNHL/status/2048801997302710599