[{"id":300065,"date":"2026-08-15T16:28:32","date_gmt":"2026-08-15T20:28:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300065"},"modified":"2026-08-15T16:28:32","modified_gmt":"2026-08-15T20:28:32","slug":"rangers-sign-forward-jacob-lukes-to-ontario-hockey-league-scholarship-and-development-agreement","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/rangers-sign-forward-jacob-lukes-to-ontario-hockey-league-scholarship-and-development-agreement","title":{"rendered":"Rangers sign forward Jacob Lukes"},"content":{"rendered":"

Kitchener, Ont. \u2013 <\/strong>The Kitchener Rangers announced today that the club has signed forward Jacob Lukes to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.<\/p>\n

Lukes, a native of Elk Grove Village, Illinois, is a right-shot forward who most recently played with Team Illinois 16U AAA. The 2009-born forward is listed at 6-foot-0 and 174 pounds and is committed to Bowling Green State University for the 2027-28 season.<\/p>\n

\u201cJacob is a smart and skilled forward who put up great numbers with his team last year,\u201d said Kitchener Rangers General Manager Mike McKenzie. \u201cHe is a late bloomer who was passed over in the draft but has shown\u00a0big improvement\u00a0over the last year. He was recently among the final cuts for the Hlinka team as his game continues to grow. We are excited to welcome him and see him continue his development here in Kitchener.\u201d<\/p>\n

During the 2025-26 season with Team Illinois 16U AAA, Lukes recorded 86 points, including 26 goals and 60 assists, over 58 games. He also spent the 2024-25 season with Team Illinois 15U AAA, where he posted 42 points in 43 games.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe staff made a great impression on me, and I knew Kitchener was a place where I could grow as a player and person,\u201d said Jacob Lukes. \u201cI\u2019m excited to be part of this organization and help build on last season\u2019s success.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lukes was selected by the Chicago Steel in the eighth round, 124th overall, of the 2026 USHL Entry Draft and by the Idaho Falls Spud Kings in the third round, 47th overall, of the 2025 NCDC Futures Draft.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Kitchener, Ont. \u2013 The Kitchener Rangers announced today that the club has signed forward Jacob Lukes to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement. Lukes, a native of Elk Grove Village, Illinois, is a right-shot forward who most recently played with Team Illinois 16U AAA. The 2009-born forward is listed at 6-foot-0 and 174 pounds and…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":575,"featured_media":300067,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":3908,"name":"Jacob Lukes","slug":"jacob-lukes","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3908,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1,"filter":"raw","term_order":"0"},{"term_id":82,"name":"Kitchener Rangers","slug":"kitchener-rangers","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":82,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1729,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2086"},{"term_id":2673,"name":"OHL News","slug":"ohl-news","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2689,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":4028,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2865"},{"term_id":890,"name":"Prospects","slug":"prospects","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":901,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1756,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3066"}],"class_list":["post-300065","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-jacob-lukes","tag-kitchener-rangers","tag-ohl-news","tag-prospects","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/15162802\/Lukes-Web.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300065","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/575"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300065"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300065\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300068,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300065\/revisions\/300068"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300067"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300065"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300065"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300065"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300054,"date":"2026-08-14T16:13:59","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T20:13:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300054"},"modified":"2026-08-14T16:13:59","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T20:13:59","slug":"release-erie-otters-sign-first-round-import-selection-paul-schuster","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/release-erie-otters-sign-first-round-import-selection-paul-schuster","title":{"rendered":"Erie Otters sign first round import selection Paul Schuster"},"content":{"rendered":"

Erie, Pennsylvania – <\/strong>With the summer months drawing ever-closer to their conclusion, the Otters continue to add to their club as they prepare to open training camp in just over a week.<\/p>\n

General Manager\u00a0Dave Brown\u00a0<\/strong>and Director of Hockey Operations\u00a0Scott Grieve\u00a0<\/strong>announced that Erie has signed their first-round pick in the CHL Import Draft\u00a0Paul Schuster\u00a0<\/strong>to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.<\/p>\n

The Austrian-born forward was selected by Erie with the #19 overall pick in the import draft and becomes the second and final Otter taken in this draft to sign with the team.<\/p>\n

Schuster, a native of Wien, Austria was the first ever Austrian-born player to be selected by Erie in the CHL Import Draft.<\/p>\n

In his native country a season ago, Schuster would suit-up in 42 games between the EC Salzburg U20 program and the RB Hockey Juniors program in the Alps Hockey League. In those games, he would tally a total of 34 points (14G+20A).<\/p>\n

The 5’10, 2009-born right-shot winger was one of two regular 16-year-old players on his RB Juniors team last season and stood out in his time there.<\/p>\n

Schuster is also no-stranger to the Austria National Team program, having played 18 games wearing his country’s colors between both the U18 and U20 teams. During his stint with the U18 program, he wore an ‘A’ as Alternate Captain.<\/p>\n

Grieve spoke about the addition of Schuster and what he will bring to the club this season and beyond.<\/p>\n

“We are excited that Paul and his family have chosen to continue his development in Erie,”\u00a0Grieve\u00a0<\/strong>said. “We believe Paul fits in well with our group of forwards. We envision his professional and international experience being a valuable addition to our team as we head into next season and beyond. The organization looks forward to seeing Paul in an Otters uniform this upcoming season.” Schuster is expected to be seen in Otters colours for the first time during main camp in just over a week’s time.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Erie, Pennsylvania – With the summer months drawing ever-closer to their conclusion, the Otters continue to add to their club as they prepare to open training camp in just over a week. General Manager\u00a0Dave Brown\u00a0and Director of Hockey Operations\u00a0Scott Grieve\u00a0announced that Erie has signed their first-round pick in the CHL Import Draft\u00a0Paul Schuster\u00a0to an OHL…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":575,"featured_media":300058,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":false,"class_list":["post-300054","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/14161318\/Schuster-Web.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300054","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/575"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300054"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300054\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300059,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300054\/revisions\/300059"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300058"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300054"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300054"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300054"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300039,"date":"2026-08-14T12:30:25","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T16:30:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300039"},"modified":"2026-08-14T16:14:16","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T20:14:16","slug":"ohl-helping-hands-meet-the-sarnia-stings-equipment-assistant","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/ohl-helping-hands-meet-the-sarnia-stings-equipment-assistant","title":{"rendered":"OHL Helping Hands: Meet the Sarnia Sting\u2019s Equipment Assistant"},"content":{"rendered":"

For more than a decade, Colby Clatworthy has been a familiar and beloved presence around the Sarnia Sting organization.<\/span><\/p>\n

Coming up on his 15th season with the Sting, Clatworthy has become much more than the team\u2019s longtime Equipment Assistant, making an impact through his positive attitude, passion for the team and involvement throughout the Sarnia community.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt has been a privilege and a rewarding experience volunteering with the Sting,\u201d said Clatworthy. \u201cI have many amazing memories and great moments with the players, staff, and others in the organization. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to many more great seasons with the Sarnia Sting!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

When he\u2019s not helping out at the arena, Clatworthy is active in local sled hockey and participates in powerlifting with Special Olympics Sarnia, becoming a recognizable and uplifting presence throughout the community.<\/span><\/p>\n

At the end of June 2026, the Sting recognized Clatworthy\u2019s impact by naming him the organization\u2019s <\/span>Community Champion of the Year<\/span><\/i>, honouring his dedication to the club and the positive influence he has had on those around him.<\/span><\/p>\n

For Sting General Manager Dylan Seca, it is Clatworthy\u2019s ability to connect with people and bring energy to the rink each day that makes him such an important part of the organization.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHis passion for the group and the way he treats others serves as a reminder that respect, camaraderie, and enjoying the journey are just as important as anything that happens on the ice,\u201d said Seca.<\/span><\/p>\n

After more than a decade with the Sting, Clatworthy continues to embody the sense of community that surrounds the organization, building relationships with players and staff while bringing the same enthusiasm and smile to the rink each day.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

For more than a decade, Colby Clatworthy has been a familiar and beloved presence around the Sarnia Sting organization. Coming up on his 15th season with the Sting, Clatworthy has become much more than the team\u2019s longtime Equipment Assistant, making an impact through his positive attitude, passion for the team and involvement throughout the Sarnia…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":575,"featured_media":300040,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":3847,"name":"OHL Helping Hands","slug":"ohl-helping-hands","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3847,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":3,"filter":"raw","term_order":"63"},{"term_id":2673,"name":"OHL News","slug":"ohl-news","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2689,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":4028,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2865"},{"term_id":75,"name":"Sarnia Sting","slug":"sarnia-sting","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":75,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1389,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3318"}],"class_list":["post-300039","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-ohl-helping-hands","tag-ohl-news","tag-sarnia-sting","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/13212634\/Helping-Hands_SAR-web.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300039","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/575"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300039"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300039\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300060,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300039\/revisions\/300060"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300040"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300039"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300039"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300039"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300050,"date":"2026-08-14T11:31:23","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T15:31:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300050"},"modified":"2026-08-14T11:31:23","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T15:31:23","slug":"futures-watch-kingston-frontenacs-2026-draft-class-and-new-faces","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/futures-watch-kingston-frontenacs-2026-draft-class-and-new-faces","title":{"rendered":"Futures Watch: Kingston Frontenacs\u2019 2026 Draft Class and New Faces"},"content":{"rendered":"

As the 2026-27 OHL season approaches, the Kingston Frontenacs are preparing for a new campaign. We spoke with General Manager Kory Cooper about the club\u2019s 2026 draft class and the new faces fans should keep an eye on heading into the upcoming season.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

2026 Draft Class Revisit:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Logan Prud’homme<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20197\u201d, 220lbs, right-shot centreman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Nepean, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Aug 2, 2010<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>1st Round, 10th Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Upper Canada College Blues U16): <\/b>69 GP, 44G, 52A, 96 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected 10th overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Logan Prud\u2019homme joins the Frontenacs after a standout season with the Upper Canada College Blues U16 program. The towering 6-foot-7 forward produced 96 points (44-52\u201396) across 69 games during the 2025-26 season before adding five goals and three assists at the 2026 OHL Cup.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLogan is the most unique prospect in this year’s draft. He brings a combination of size, skill, and hockey IQ. We believe his game is just scratching the surface, and he has all the tools to become a dominant OHL player.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Roman Vanacker<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>5\u20199\u201d, 177lbs, left-shot centreman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Delhi, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>May 8, 2010<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>2nd Round, 23rd Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Brantford 99ers U16 AAA): <\/b>30 GP, 30G, 40A, 70 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected 23rd overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Roman Vanacker captained the Brantford 99ers U16 AAA program during the 2025-26 season, recording 70 points (30-40\u201370) in 30 games. The 5-foot-9 forward from Delhi, ON., added another two goals and four assists at the 2026 OHL Cup.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe were ecstatic to add Roman at pick 23. Roman has a high engine and competes all over the ice. He has shown the ability to make plays and score goals. We expect Roman to play a role in Kingston this season and to be a leader in the future.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Shane Roche<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20193\u201d, 174lbs, left-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Markham, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Aug 3, 2010<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>2nd Round, 39th Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA): <\/b>31 GP, 5G, 8A, 13 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Kingston used their second pick of the second round to select Shane Roche 39th overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. The 6-foot-3, 174-pound defenceman spent the 2025-26 season with the Toronto Marlboros U16 AAA program, recording 13 points (5-8\u201313) in 31 games.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cRoche is a smooth-skating left-shot defenceman with a mix of size, length, toughness, and willingness to engage. He will be a good pro prospect in the coming seasons.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Gavin Godick<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20190\u201d, 182lbs, right-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Thunder Bay, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Mar 25, 2010<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>3rd Round, 47th Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Don Mills Flyers U16 AAA): <\/b>28 GP, 2G, 11A, 13 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected 47th overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Gavin Godick joins the Frontenacs from the Don Mills Flyers U16 AAA program. The Thunder Bay, ON., native recorded 13 points (2-11\u201313) in 28 games during the 2025-26 season before adding two goals and two assists across five games at the 2026 OHL Cup.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGodick is a well-rounded d-man who transitions the puck well. He can make plays in the offensive zone with vision and deception. We think Gavin will be a mainstay on the Kingston blueline in the future.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Other members of the 2026 class include:\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
PLAYER<\/b><\/td>\nPOSITION<\/b><\/td>\nHOMETOWN<\/b><\/td>\nDOB<\/b><\/td>\n2025-26 TEAM<\/b><\/td>\nDRAFTED<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Miles Reilly<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nInnisfil, ON<\/span><\/td>\nMay 1, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nToronto Marlboros U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n4th round, 64th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Rory Shaughnessy<\/span><\/td>\nLD<\/span><\/td>\nAlmonte, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJun 23, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nHill Academy U16<\/span><\/td>\n5th round, 96th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Xavier Carroll<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nOttawa, ON<\/span><\/td>\nOct 26, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nHill Academy U16<\/span><\/td>\n7th round, 131st overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brock Lamarche<\/span><\/td>\nLW<\/span><\/td>\nCornwall, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJan 27, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nEastern Ontario Wild U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n8th round, 151st overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nash Wilford<\/span><\/td>\nLW<\/span><\/td>\nOrchard Park, NY<\/span><\/td>\nFeb 27, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nBuffalo Jr. Sabres 15’s<\/span><\/td>\n9th round, 171st overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Leo Hendriks<\/span><\/td>\nRD<\/span><\/td>\nOttawa, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJan 18, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nEastern Ontario Wild U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n10th round, 183rd overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ty Moad<\/span><\/td>\nLD<\/span><\/td>\nGranite City, IL<\/span><\/td>\nJun 7, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nShattuck-St. Mary’s Sabres 15’s<\/span><\/td>\n11th round, 211th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Luca Filiaggi<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nPittsburgh, PA<\/span><\/td>\nSep 1, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nBishop Kearney Selects 15’s<\/span><\/td>\n12th round, 231st overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Nathan Ferriss<\/span><\/td>\nG<\/span><\/td>\nBelleville, ON<\/span><\/td>\nMay 23, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nQuinte Red Devils U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n13th round, 251st overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Henry McIntosh<\/span><\/td>\nLW<\/span><\/td>\nCambridge, ON<\/span><\/td>\nAug 17, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nMississauga Senators U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n14th round, 271st overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Spencer Tomczuk<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nNiagara on the Lake, ON<\/span><\/td>\nApr 22, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nNiagara North Stars U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n14th round, 276th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lawson Liboiron-Minifie<\/span><\/td>\nRW<\/span><\/td>\nGrafton, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJan 3, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nQuinte Red Devils U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n15th round, 291st overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Presley Kelly-Wright<\/span><\/td>\nRD<\/span><\/td>\nOttawa, ON<\/span><\/td>\nDec 1, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nOttawa Myers Automotive U18 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n1st round, 10th overall (U18)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Owen Bienstman<\/span><\/td>\nG<\/span><\/td>\nTilbury, ON<\/span><\/td>\nOct 1, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nElgin-Middlesex Canucks U18 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n2nd round, 30th overall (U18)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cole Coughlin<\/span><\/td>\nLD<\/span><\/td>\nBelleville, ON<\/span><\/td>\nDec 29, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nNorth Shore Whitecaps U18 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n3rd round, 47th overall (U18)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

2026 New Faces:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

*Note: Player additions are current as of publication. Team signings remain ongoing, and this section will be updated throughout the offseason as additional players are signed and trades are completed.<\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Dante D\u2019Andrea<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20190\u201d, 165lbs, left-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Sarnia, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Jan 22, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>4th Round, 71st Overall (2025 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Milton Menace): <\/b>44 GP, 10G, 18A, 28 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Originally selected in the fourth round (71st overall) of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Dante D\u2019Andrea spent the majority of the 2025-26 season with the Milton Menace of the OJHL, recording 28 points (10-18\u201328) in 44 regular-season games. The Sarnia, ON., native also appeared in five games with the Frontenacs, making his OHL debut early in the season and recording his first career assist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDante played a few regular-season games with us last year and continuously improved over the course of the season with the Milton Menace (OJHL). He is a smooth-skating defenceman who eliminates time and space and can also break out pucks very effectively. We are excited to see the steps he takes in Kingston this season.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: Gavin Christie<\/a><\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20191\u201d, 174lbs, right-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Beamsville, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Apr 13, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 2, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Brantford Titans): <\/b>38 GP, 7G, 20A, 27 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired from the Brantford Bulldogs during the offseason, Gavin Christie brings previous OHL experience to the Frontenacs\u2019 blueline. The Beamsville, ON., native appeared in nine games with Brantford during the 2025-26 season after being selected by the Bulldogs in the third round (58th overall) of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection.<\/span><\/p>\n

Christie spent the majority of the season with the Brantford Titans of the GOHL, recording 27 points (7-20\u201327) and 107 penalty minutes in 38 games. His performance earned him a spot in the 2026 GOHL Top Prospects Game, held as part of the OHL\u2019s Connor McDavid Top Prospects event in January.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe were happy to acquire Gavin in the offseason. He is a big, hard-nosed defender with a sneaky skill set. He provides intangible qualities we felt we needed to add to our lineup.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Additional new faces include:\u00a0\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
PLAYER<\/b><\/td>\nPOSITION<\/b><\/td>\nHOMETOWN<\/b><\/td>\nDOB<\/b><\/td>\n2025-26 TEAM<\/b><\/td>\nDRAFTED\/ACQUIRED<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Royden Smith<\/span><\/td>\nG<\/span><\/td>\nToronto, ON<\/span><\/td>\nFeb 6, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nWellington Dukes (OJHL)<\/span><\/td>\n5th round, 92nd overall (2025)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ty Robar<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nWhitby, ON<\/span><\/td>\nApr 19, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nPickering Panthers (OJHL) + Kingston (10 GP)<\/span><\/td>\n6th round, 118th overall (2025)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ryan Chamberlain<\/span><\/a><\/td>\nLW<\/span><\/td>\nPeterborough, ON<\/span><\/td>\nApr 22, 2008<\/span><\/td>\nBrantford Titans (GOHL) + Brantford (17 GP)<\/span><\/td>\nJune 8, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a new-look roster taking shape in Kingston, the Frontenacs will enter the 2026-27 season with plenty of fresh faces looking to make their mark. With size standing out across the club\u2019s newest additions and a mix of youth, skill and junior experience joining the lineup, Kingston will look to build for the future as the Frontenacs prepare for a new campaign.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

_____________________________________________________________________________________<\/span><\/p>\n

FloHockey<\/b><\/a> remains the exclusive streaming home of the Ontario Hockey League, delivering more than 680 regular-season games throughout the year, plus complete coverage of the OHL playoffs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Subscribers can stream games live or watch on demand from anywhere, ensuring they never miss a goal, save, or highlight during the 2026-27 season.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re following your hometown team or tracking prospects across the league, <\/span>FloHockey<\/b><\/a> provides comprehensive coverage of every OHL club all season long.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Explore the Kingston Frontenacs\u2019 2026 draft class and new faces as the club adds size, skill and youth ahead of the 2026-27 OHL season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":575,"featured_media":300053,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":3875,"name":"2026 Futures Watch","slug":"2026-futures-watch","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3875,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":10,"filter":"raw","term_order":"34"},{"term_id":125,"name":"Kingston Frontenacs","slug":"kingston-frontenacs","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":125,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1412,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2077"},{"term_id":2673,"name":"OHL News","slug":"ohl-news","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2689,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":4028,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2865"}],"class_list":["post-300050","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-2026-futures-watch","tag-kingston-frontenacs","tag-ohl-news","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/14113058\/FuturesWatchWeb-3.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300050","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/575"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300050"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300050\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300052,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300050\/revisions\/300052"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300053"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300050"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300050"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300050"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300043,"date":"2026-08-14T11:00:04","date_gmt":"2026-08-14T15:00:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300043"},"modified":"2026-08-14T10:59:27","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T14:59:27","slug":"peterborough-petes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/peterborough-petes","title":{"rendered":"Peterborough Petes’ Dr. Bob Neville named 2026 recipient of Bill Long Award"},"content":{"rendered":"

Muskoka Lakes, Ont. \u2013 <\/strong>The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) announced today that Dr. Bob Neville of the Peterborough Petes is this year’s recipient of the Bill Long Award for Distinguished Service to the OHL.<\/p>\n

Neville was presented with the award at the OHL\u2019s Champions Reception, held in conjunction with the League\u2019s Annual General Meeting this past week in Muskoka Lakes, Ont.<\/p>\n

The Bill Long Award is presented in recognition and appreciation of an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the OHL. It commemorates the efforts and contributions of Bill Long during his days in the Ontario Hockey League, spanning over three decades as a coach and manager of the Niagara Falls Flyers, Ottawa 67\u2019s and London Knights.<\/p>\n

\u201cDr. Bob Neville\u2019s passion for this League is unmistakable, and so is the genuine care he brings to every conversation,\u201d said OHL Commissioner Bryan Crawford. \u201cFor nearly four decades he has been a steady and devoted voice for the Peterborough Petes, and his insight around our Executive Council table has made all of us better. Bob asks the right questions, he thinks about what is best for the players first, and he offers the kind of wisdom that only comes from a lifetime of service. He is a most deserving recipient of the Bill Long Award.\u201d<\/p>\n

Neville began with the Petes in 1987 as the club\u2019s team physician, travelling to road games and joining the team at the Memorial Cup in 1989 and 1993. He was invited to join the Petes Board of Directors in 1995, chaired the club\u2019s successful bid to host the 1996 Memorial Cup and served as Chairman of that tournament.<\/p>\n

He was a member of the Peterborough Memorial Centre\u2019s Renovation Committee in 2000 and served as President of the Petes Board of Directors from 2002 to 2005. He currently serves as Governor of the Petes Board of Directors.<\/p>\n

Neville was elected to the Executive Council of the OHL Board of Governors in 2005, where he has held the positions of Secretary and Treasurer of the Board before later serving as Chairman. He also serves as a member of multiple committees of the OHL Board of Governors.<\/p>\n

Away from the rink, Neville is a family physician, occupational health physician, coroner and medical review officer. He has also served as an assistant professor of family medicine at Queen\u2019s and McMaster universities, president of the Medical Centre in Peterborough and a board member of the Primary Health Care Service in Peterborough.<\/p>\n

Neville becomes the fifth Peterborough Petes representative to receive the Bill Long Award, joining Pat Casey (2015-16), Jeff Twohey (2005-06), Norm Bryan (2002-03) and Herb Warr (1991-92).<\/p>\n

For a full list of OHL award winners, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The OHL has recognized Dr. Bob Neville of the Peterborough Petes as this year’s recipient of the Bill Long Award for Distinguished Service.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":300046,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":899,"name":"Awards","slug":"awards","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":910,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":314,"filter":"raw","term_order":"401"},{"term_id":2673,"name":"OHL News","slug":"ohl-news","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2689,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":4028,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2865"},{"term_id":77,"name":"Peterborough Petes","slug":"peterborough-petes","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":77,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1616,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3027"},{"term_id":2459,"name":"Releases","slug":"releases","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2475,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":257,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3108"}],"class_list":["post-300043","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-awards","tag-ohl-news","tag-peterborough-petes","tag-releases","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/14002137\/Dr.Bob-Award-Web.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300043","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300043"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300043\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300051,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300043\/revisions\/300051"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300046"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300043"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300043"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300043"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300035,"date":"2026-08-13T18:13:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-13T22:13:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300035"},"modified":"2026-08-13T18:16:37","modified_gmt":"2026-08-13T22:16:37","slug":"colts-acquire-overage-forward-luca-testa-from-bulldogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/colts-acquire-overage-forward-luca-testa-from-bulldogs","title":{"rendered":"Colts acquire overage forward Luca Testa from Bulldogs"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Barrie Colts have acquired 2006-born centreman Luca Testa from the Brantford Bulldogs in exchange for a conditional fourteenth-round selection in the 2029 OHL Priority Selection and a fifth-round pick in the 2030 OHL Priority Selection.<\/p>\n

Testa, a native of Grimsby, ON, was originally selected by the London Knights in the first round, 15th overall, of the 2022 OHL Priority Selection after leading the St. Catharines Falcons to a Sutherland Cup as an underage player. The Bulldogs acquired Testa from London on January 2, 2023, where he went on to spend the next three and a half seasons.<\/p>\n

Testa appeared in 152 games with Brantford, recording 67 points (36-31-67). During the 2025-26 season, he posted 26 points (15-11-26) in 50 regular-season games before adding five points (4-1-5) in 15 playoff contests as the Bulldogs advanced to the Eastern Conference Final.<\/p>\n

The 6-foot-1, 190-pound left-shot centreman brings size, physicality, compete and offensive upside to the Colts\u2019 forward group.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve liked what Luca has brought to the table for a while now, but it was really his compete level in the playoffs last year that stood out to us,\u201d said Colts General Manager Marty Williamson.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe want to thank Luca for everything he has given to the Bulldogs organization,\u201d said Brantford President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Spencer Hyman. \u201cHe has been a great teammate and a great person who represented our organization with pride.\u201d<\/p>\n

Testa joins the Colts following their run to the OHL Championship Series and will enter his fifth and final OHL season with Barrie.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

All confirmed trades can be found on our\u00a0OHL Offseason Trade Tracker<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The Barrie Colts have acquired 2006-born centreman Luca Testa from the Brantford Bulldogs in exchange for a conditional fourteenth-round selection in the 2029 OHL Priority Selection and a fifth-round pick in the 2030 OHL Priority Selection. Testa, a native of Grimsby, ON, was originally selected by the London Knights in the first round, 15th overall,…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":606,"featured_media":300036,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":98,"name":"Barrie Colts","slug":"barrie-colts","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":98,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1574,"filter":"raw","term_order":"410"},{"term_id":2724,"name":"Brantford Bulldogs","slug":"brantford-bulldogs","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2740,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":692,"filter":"raw","term_order":"558"},{"term_id":2510,"name":"Luca Testa","slug":"luca-testa","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2526,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":7,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2248"},{"term_id":2673,"name":"OHL News","slug":"ohl-news","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2689,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":4028,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2865"},{"term_id":3619,"name":"Trades","slug":"trades","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3619,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":103,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3563"}],"class_list":["post-300035","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-barrie-colts","tag-brantford-bulldogs","tag-luca-testa","tag-ohl-news","tag-trades","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/13165549\/Testa-Web.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300035","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/606"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300035"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300035\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300038,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300035\/revisions\/300038"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300036"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300035"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300035"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300035"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300026,"date":"2026-08-13T15:01:59","date_gmt":"2026-08-13T19:01:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300026"},"modified":"2026-08-13T15:13:15","modified_gmt":"2026-08-13T19:13:15","slug":"futures-watch-niagara-icedogs-2026-draft-class-and-new-faces","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/futures-watch-niagara-icedogs-2026-draft-class-and-new-faces","title":{"rendered":"Futures Watch: Niagara IceDogs \u2019 2026 Draft Class and New Faces"},"content":{"rendered":"

As the 2026-27 OHL season approaches, the Niagara IceDogs are preparing for a new campaign under new management and leadership. We spoke with General Manager Dale DeGray about the club\u2019s 2026 draft class and the new faces fans should keep an eye on heading into the upcoming season.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

2026 Draft Class Revisit<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Max Lappan<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20193\u201d, 224lbs, right-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Livonia, MI<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Mar 17, 2010<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>1st Round, 9th Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Detroit HoneyBaked 15’s): <\/b>77 GP, 22G, 93A, 115 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected ninth overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Max Lappan became the first defenceman and first American-born player selected in this year\u2019s draft. Lappan spent the 2025-26 season captaining Detroit HoneyBaked 15U, recording 115 points (22-93\u2013115) in 77 games. He added 10 points (2-8\u201310) in seven games while helping lead his team to the 2026 OHL Cup championship.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEarly in the process, we identified Max as one of, if not the best overall defenceman in the 2026 OHL Draft. He is a prototypical two-way defender who manages the puck well, runs a power play, kills penalties and can be used in every situation. We see Max as a top-pairing defender down the road and a player who can lead both on and off the ice. We are excited to integrate Max into the lineup right away and watch him succeed.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Finn Merrill<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20190\u201d, 148lbs, right-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Caledon, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Jul 12, 2010<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>2nd Round, 32nd Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Hill Academy U16): <\/b>59 GP, 48G, 41A, 89 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected 32nd overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Finn Merrill spent the 2025-26 season with The Hill Academy, recording 89 points (48-41\u201389) in 59 games. Known as a gifted goal-scorer, Merrill also plays high-level lacrosse during the summer and earned an invitation to Canada\u2019s National Under-17 Development Camp.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cFinn was a priority for us as we approached the second round of the 2026 OHL Draft. We loved his skill set, creativity and vision, specifically down low and in the cycle. He is a player who can support other skilled players or drive a line on his own. What made Finn stand out among his peers was his compete level, drive and aggressiveness. It\u2019s incredibly hard to find a player with his skill who also possesses those attributes, and we\u2019re incredibly happy we were able to add him to the organization.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: Nathan Hewitt<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20191\u201d, 160lbs, left-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Binbrook, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Sep 25, 2010<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>2nd Round, 33rd Overall (2026 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Niagara North Stars U16 AAA): <\/b>34 GP, 17G, 26A, 43 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected 33rd overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, Nathan Hewitt spent the 2025-26 season with the Niagara North Stars U16 AAA program, recording 43 points (17-26\u201343) in 34 games.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNathan is a very well-rounded centre who was one of the top performers in the OMHA last year. We see him as one of the better two-way, complete centres in the draft. He impacts the game on the scoresheet, but also works away from the puck and plays a smart, mature game. Nathan was a priority for us heading into the draft because of his overall tool set, identity as a player and who he is as a person.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: Alexandre Beaupre<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20192\u201d, 183lbs, goaltender<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Kingston, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Dec 3, 2008<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>1st Round, 9th Overall (2026 OHL U18 Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Quinte Red Devils U18 AAA): <\/b>24 GP, 2.58 GAA<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected ninth overall in the 2026 OHL U18 Priority Selection, Alexandre Beaupre posted an 11-10-1 record and a 2.58 goals-against average with the Quinte Red Devils U18 AAA during the 2025-26 season. He also appeared in one game with the OJHL\u2019s Wellington Dukes, recording a .929 save percentage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEarly in the process, we identified Beaupre as part of a small group of top goaltenders eligible for the U18 Draft. He checks a lot of boxes for what we look for in a goaltender. He competes for pucks, has strong positioning and takes up a good amount of the net. He was a major reason the Quinte Red Devils had the success they did this year in the U18 loop.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: Stepan Stejskal<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20191\u201d, 165lbs, left-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Plzen, CZE<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Jan 6, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>1st Round, 25th Overall (2026 CHL Import Draft)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (HC Davos U21): <\/b>37 GP, 17G, 17A, 34 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected 25th overall in the 2026 CHL Import Draft, Stepan Stejskal spent the 2025-26 season with HC Davos U21 in Switzerland\u2019s U21 Elite League, recording 34 points (17-17\u201334) in 37 games. Known for his hockey IQ, playmaking ability and offensive creativity, Stejskal has also represented Czechia internationally, including at the 2025 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe felt incredibly lucky to add Stepan to the organization through the Import Draft this year. Stepan played in a U21 Swiss league last year and was one of the top offensive players in the league. He possesses a well-rounded offensive skill set, strong vision, good one-on-one elusiveness and a scoring touch around the net. We envision Stepan becoming an offensive threat for us after some adjustment to the North American game.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: Tobias Kramer<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20196\u201d, 216lbs, right-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Mannheim, GER<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Jun 27, 2008<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>2nd Round, 86th Overall (2026 CHL Import Draft)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Jungadler Mannheim U20): <\/b>36 GP, 4G, 16A, 20 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Selected 86th overall in the second round of the 2026 CHL Import Draft, Tobias Kramer adds further size to Niagara\u2019s blue line. The German defenceman spent the 2025-26 season with Jungadler Mannheim U20 in the DNL U20 league, recording 20 points (4-16\u201320) in 36 games. Kramer also represented Germany internationally at the 2026 IIHF U18 World Championship.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTobias is an interesting player who possesses all the tools you look for in a defensive defenceman. He has the size and reach to be effective at shutting down entries into the defensive zone, while also possessing a mean streak and the ability to end cycles down low and get the puck out safely. As with any import player, we anticipate some adjustment to the North American ice surface, but we expect Tobias to play some important minutes for us this upcoming season.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Other members of the 2026 class include:\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
PLAYER<\/b><\/td>\nPOSITION<\/b><\/td>\nHOMETOWN<\/b><\/td>\nDOB<\/b><\/td>\n2025-26 TEAM<\/b><\/td>\nDRAFTED<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Aidan Cullen<\/span><\/td>\nG<\/span><\/td>\nSt. Louis, MO<\/span><\/td>\nMar 1, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nShattuck-St. Mary’s Sabres 15’s<\/span><\/td>\n3rd round, 42nd overall\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cooper Ross<\/span><\/td>\nRD<\/span><\/td>\nVaughan, ON<\/span><\/td>\nMar 1, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nToronto Jr. Canadiens U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n5th round, 88th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Benjamin Trebicky<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nLondon, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJul 12, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nBurlington Cougars<\/span><\/td>\n7th round,\u00a0 130th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quinn Roberts<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nWoodstock, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJun 25, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nLondon Jr. Knights U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n8th round,\u00a0 144th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Aiden Ali<\/span><\/td>\nLD<\/span><\/td>\nVernon Hills, IL<\/span><\/td>\nFeb 28, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nDetroit Little Caesars 15’s<\/span><\/td>\n8th round,\u00a0 150th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Benjamin Schori<\/span><\/td>\nRW<\/span><\/td>\nPetawawa, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJun 24, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nOttawa Valley Titans U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n9th round, 170th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Kohen Chrastina<\/span><\/td>\nRD<\/span><\/td>\nWelland, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJun 10, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nNiagara North Stars U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n10th round,\u00a0 190th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Avery Yarde<\/span><\/td>\nRW<\/span><\/td>\nOwen Sound, ON<\/span><\/td>\nJan 21, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nGrey-Bruce Highlanders U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n11th round,\u00a0 210th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Felix Sapay<\/span><\/td>\nLW<\/span><\/td>\nDryden, ON<\/span><\/td>\nMar 19, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nSudbury Wolves U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n12th round,\u00a0 230th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Quinn Kaiser<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nWaterford, WI<\/span><\/td>\nJan 13, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nTeam Illinois 15’s<\/span><\/td>\n12th round,\u00a0 237th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cooper DesChamp<\/span><\/td>\nG<\/span><\/td>\nStoney Creek, ON<\/span><\/td>\nNov 11, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nToronto Nationals U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n13th round,\u00a0 243rd overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Luke Anglesey<\/span><\/td>\nRD<\/span><\/td>\nOttawa, ON<\/span><\/td>\nSep 16, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nOttawa Jr. 67’s U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n13th round,\u00a0 250th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Jonah Tagliarino<\/span><\/td>\nRW<\/span><\/td>\nEtobicoke, ON<\/span><\/td>\nDec 29, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nCredit River Capitals U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n14th round,\u00a0 270th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Miras Zhumabay<\/span><\/td>\nC<\/span><\/td>\nCranberry Township, PA<\/span><\/td>\nJun 10, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nPittsburgh Penguins Elite 15’s<\/span><\/td>\n15th round,\u00a0 284th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Tyson Vani<\/span><\/td>\nRD<\/span><\/td>\nVaughan, ON<\/span><\/td>\nMar 22, 2010<\/span><\/td>\nNorth York Rangers U16 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n15th round,\u00a0 286th overall<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Ethan Gillespie<\/span><\/td>\nLW<\/span><\/td>\nPrescott, ON<\/span><\/td>\nFeb 26, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nUpper Canada Cyclones U18 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n2nd round,\u00a0 29th overall (U18)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Matvei Tolstykh<\/span><\/td>\nRW<\/span><\/td>\nSt. Petersburg, RUS<\/span><\/td>\nMay 6, 2009<\/span><\/td>\nToronto Jr. Canadiens U18 AAA<\/span><\/td>\n3rd round,\u00a0 46th overall (U18)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

2026 New Faces:<\/b><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

*Note: Player additions are current as of publication. Team signings remain ongoing, and this section will be updated throughout the offseason as additional players are signed and trades are completed.<\/span><\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: Michael Tang<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20191\u201d, 170lbs, right-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>New York, NY<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Apr 15, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>4th Round, 78th Overall (2025 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Madison Capitals): <\/b>57 GP, 9G, 19A, 28 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Michael Tang was originally selected by the IceDogs in the fourth round, 78th overall, of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. He spent the 2025-26 season with the Madison Capitols of the USHL, recording 28 points (9-19\u201328) in 57 games. Tang also recently represented the United States at the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are very excited to welcome Michael to Niagara. We watched him a lot when he played U16 in Toronto and followed him as he had success in Madison last year. Michael will add significant skill and hockey sense to the lineup. He reads the ice and makes incredibly smart plays in all three zones. He is a very quick, darting skater who should be successful at creating offence off the rush and as he gains the offensive blue line. Michael should be a go-to offensive player for us right off the bat.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: Will Mullins<\/span><\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20190\u201d, 179lbs, right-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Ottawa, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>May 14, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Drafted: <\/b>7th Round, 132nd Overall (2025 OHL Priority Selection)<\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Kemptville 73’s): <\/b>52 GP, 16G, 36A, 52 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Will Mullins was originally selected by the IceDogs in the seventh round, 132nd overall, of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. The 17-year-old spent the 2025-26 season with the Kemptville 73\u2019s of the CCHL, recording 52 points (16-36\u201352) in 52 games. The winger also received his first taste of OHL action last season, appearing in five games with Niagara following a late-season call-up.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cA graduate of the Ottawa Myers organization, Will had a very successful season in Kemptville last year. He was always a player who showed good hockey sense and a strong, accurate shot, but we really felt he elevated his compete level, offensive sense and overall game last year in the CCHL. We feel he should add some depth to the organization this year and move up the lineup as he learns the league.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Carter Lewandowski<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20193\u201d, 186lbs, left-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Maple, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>June 2, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 2, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Ayr Centennials): <\/b>45 GP, 17G, 29A, 46 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Carter Lewandowski was selected by Guelph in the second round, 36th overall, of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. He spent the majority of the 2025-26 season with the Ayr Centennials of the GOHL, recording 46 points (17-29\u201346) in 45 games. Lewandowski made his OHL debut with the Storm in November and appeared in six games with the club.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCarter had a very successful season in Ayr last year, where he was one of the top 16-year-olds in the GOHL. He is well-rounded, mature and smart without the puck, but also shows good hockey sense and offensive touch in the offensive zone. His best offensive weapon may be his snapshot, which he gets off quickly both in and out of stride. Carter should step into the lineup and get every opportunity to play this year.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Zack Naish<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20197\u201d, 202lbs, right-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Hampton, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Dec 2, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 2, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Brockville Braves): <\/b>36 GP, 1G, 2A, 3 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Zack Naish was selected by Guelph in the sixth round, 105th overall, of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. The 6-foot-7 defenceman spent the majority of the 2025-26 season with the CCHL\u2019s Brockville Braves, recording three points (1-2\u20133) and 68 penalty minutes in 36 games. Naish also made his OHL debut with the Storm in September and recorded his first career point with an assist.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cZack is a raw, high-potential stay-at-home defender who played a handful of games for the Guelph Storm last year. A late-birth, right-shot defender, Zack is still young but showed during his year in the CCHL that he is embracing his role as a physical, aggressive defensive defenceman who can move the puck and play hard defensive minutes.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Blake Munnings<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20190\u201d, 193lbs, left-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Belleville, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Jan 23, 2009<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 3, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Owen Sound Attack): <\/b>33 GP, 2G, 2A, 4 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Blake Munnings was selected by the Owen Sound Attack in the second round, 28th overall, of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection. The Belleville, Ont., native appeared in 33 games during his rookie campaign in 2025-26, recording four points (2-2\u20134) from the blue line.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBlake comes to us from Owen Sound, where he had a successful 16-year-old season. We like his two-way game, as he is equally effective in both zones but also has a lot of untapped offensive potential that we anticipate will be on display this year. We look forward to watching Blake grow as a player in his second season.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Jared Langdon<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20190\u201d, 194lbs, left-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Belleville, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Nov 16, 2006<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 11, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Owen Sound Attack): <\/b>23 GP, 4G, 3A, 7 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Jared Langdon appeared in 23 games with the Owen Sound Attack during the 2025-26 season, recording seven points (4-3\u20137) in his first OHL campaign. The St. John\u2019s, N.L., native joined Owen Sound midway through the season after beginning the year with the BCHL\u2019s Blackfalds Bulldogs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJared comes to us after spending half of last season in the OHL with the Owen Sound Attack. He made a successful transition to the league, showing offensive tools along with an unparalleled work ethic and leadership qualities both on and off the ice. Jared will be a leader for us this year and help establish our identity as a no-quit, smart and competitive team.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Christian Colosimo<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20195\u201d, 220lbs, left-shot defenceman<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Vaughan, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Dec 1, 2008<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 18, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Aurora Tigers): <\/b>23 GP, 0G, 4A, 4 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Christian Colosimo appeared in 16 games with the Flint Firebirds during the 2025-26 season, recording one goal and one assist. Originally selected by Flint in the fourth round, 61st overall, of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, the Vaughan, Ont., native also spent part of last season with the OJHL\u2019s Aurora Tigers, recording four assists in 23 games. The left-shot defenceman brings size and physicality to Niagara\u2019s blue line.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cChristian is entering his third year in the league after splitting time with the Flint Firebirds and Aurora Tigers of the OJHL last year. Christian is a heavy, aggressive, stay-at-home defender who uses his size, reach and physicality to be an effective shutdown defender.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Layne Gallacher<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>6\u20191\u201d, 180lbs, left-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Brooklin, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Feb 16, 2008<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 19, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Guelph Storm): <\/b>32 GP, 5G, 13A, 18 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Layne Gallacher split the 2025-26 season between the Brantford Bulldogs and Guelph Storm, recording a combined 30 points (10-20\u201330) in 53 regular-season games during his rookie OHL campaign. The Brooklin, Ont., native also competed in the 2026 Connor McDavid OHL Top Prospects Game.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGallacher was a player we identified early in the summer and were happy to bring in. He fits the mold of a two-way centre who impacts the game in all three zones. He plays hard and competes, while combining those qualities with underrated skill and offensive impact. We envision Layne as a leader both on and off the ice and expect him to be one of our more impactful forwards this season.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Player Spotlight: <\/b>Wil McFadden<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Profile: <\/b>5\u20198\u201d, 170lbs, left-shot forward<\/span><\/p>\n

Hometown: <\/b>Peterborough, ON<\/span><\/p>\n

Birthdate: <\/b>Feb 15, 2007<\/span><\/p>\n

Acquired: <\/b>June 19, 2026<\/span><\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

2025-26 Stats (Guelph Storm): <\/b>62 GP, 11G, 30A, 41 PTS<\/span><\/p>\n

Wil McFadden is coming off a career-best season, recording 41 points (11-30\u201341) in 62 regular-season games with the Guelph Storm. The Peterborough, Ont., native spent three seasons with Guelph after originally being selected 31st overall in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve been following Will since his OHL Draft year in Peterborough. He was a bit of a Swiss Army knife last year in Guelph, playing both wing and defence. We view him as one of the more underrated skilled players in the league and look forward to him becoming a strong offensive player who can drive play at five-on-five and quarterback the power play for us as well.\u201d<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

With a new-look roster taking shape under a new management group, the IceDogs will enter the 2026-27 season with plenty of fresh faces looking to make their mark in Niagara. Following a busy offseason that saw the club make several trades and add a mix of youth and OHL experience to the lineup, the IceDogs will look to establish a new identity as the organization begins its next chapter.<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

_____________________________________________________________________________________<\/span><\/p>\n

FloHockey<\/b><\/a><\/span> remains the exclusive streaming home of the Ontario Hockey League, delivering more than 680 regular-season games throughout the year, plus complete coverage of the OHL playoffs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Subscribers can stream games live or watch on demand from anywhere, ensuring they never miss a goal, save, or highlight during the 2026-27 season.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re following your hometown team or tracking prospects across the league, <\/span>FloHockey<\/span><\/b><\/a> provides comprehensive coverage of every OHL club all season long.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Explore the Niagara IceDogs\u2019 2026 draft class and new faces as the club welcomes a new management group and a revamped roster ahead of the 2026-27 OHL season.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":575,"featured_media":300033,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":3875,"name":"2026 Futures Watch","slug":"2026-futures-watch","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3875,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":10,"filter":"raw","term_order":"34"},{"term_id":85,"name":"Niagara IceDogs","slug":"niagara-icedogs","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":85,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1407,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2712"},{"term_id":2673,"name":"OHL News","slug":"ohl-news","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2689,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":4028,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2865"}],"class_list":["post-300026","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-2026-futures-watch","tag-niagara-icedogs","tag-ohl-news","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/13150119\/FuturesWatchWeb-2-1.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300026","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/575"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300026"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300026\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300028,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300026\/revisions\/300028"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300033"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300026"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300026"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300026"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300013,"date":"2026-08-13T14:00:51","date_gmt":"2026-08-13T18:00:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300013"},"modified":"2026-08-13T10:47:21","modified_gmt":"2026-08-13T14:47:21","slug":"ohl-strengthens-league-wide-concussion-protocol-with-headcheck-health","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/ohl-strengthens-league-wide-concussion-protocol-with-headcheck-health","title":{"rendered":"OHL Strengthens League-Wide Concussion Protocol with HEADCHECK Health"},"content":{"rendered":"

Toronto, Ont. \u2013 <\/strong>The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced that all 20 member teams will utilize HEADCHECK Health (HEADCHECK) to execute the league’s concussion protocol for the 2026-27 season. This platform will be implemented ahead of pre-season baseline testing. By extending a system already successfully used by eight OHL teams to the entire league, this agreement establishes a consistent, high standard of concussion care across every rink.<\/p>\n

The OHL\u2019s concussion protocol sets the standard for recognizing, assessing, and managing a player’s return to sport. Dr. Michael Czarnota, the Ontario Hockey League\u2019s Consulting Neuropsychologist, oversees the league’s concussion testing and clearance protocols, helping athletes return to sport safely.<\/p>\n

This partnership eases the collaboration with Dr. Czarnota, and gives the league new aggregate data to inform future safety and policy improvements. Team medical staff will now perform each protocol action within a single, integrated platform, whether at the home rink or on the road. This transition ensures that care is documented automatically, complementing the medical records and processes already in use by team staff.<\/p>\n

A platform that seamlessly accommodates transactions and player movement, a player’s concussion history and baseline data will follow him throughout his time in the OHL. This allows medical staff across all 20 OHL member teams to access a newly acquired player\u2019s complete medical picture on day one, ensuring continuity of care and allowing players to return to the ice safely and efficiently.<\/p>\n

For parents, it means a clear answer to a hard question. When a player takes a hit, the same steps happen at every OHL rink, every time, and the protocol is followed through to completion, wherever his season takes him. In the number one development league in the world, that consistency protects more than the moment. The safest path back is also the best path forward for a player’s development, draft year, career, and life beyond hockey.<\/p>\n

“Nothing matters more than the health and safety of our players,” said Greg Kimmerly, OHL Director of Player Safety. “Our medical staff are highly trained, and they deserve the best tools available to assess a player and determine the correct course of action. This partnership ensures the same standard of care is applied at all 20 member teams, every time.”<\/p>\n

\u201cThe OHL now has a platform to execute its protocol and the data to see a significant return on their investment in concussion safety,\u201d said Harrison Brown, CEO of HEADCHECK Health. \u201cWe are proud to support a league that treats brain health as part of player development.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Testimonials:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cI used HEADCHECK last season for the first time, and I loved how straightforward it was to use for concussion injuries. Everything was kept in one place, so I no longer had to carry a binder full of completed SCATs. Having everything accessible on the app and automatically populated saved me a lot of extra time. I found that being able to visually show my athletes what stage of return to play they were in, along with the requirements needed,\u00a0really helped them understand the return to play process a little better. It truly has been an added asset to my tool belt as an Athletic Therapist.\u201d \u2013 Tash Lagac\u00e9, Athletic Therapist, Peterborough Petes<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHEADCHECK is a great program that gives Athletic Therapists in the OHL the tools and support to efficiently collect and organize baseline data for our team, allowing us to safely and accurately manage concussion rehabilitation for our athletes.\u201d \u2013 Andy Brown, Head Athletic Therapist, Owen Sound Attack<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

About HEADCHECK Health
\n<\/strong>HEADCHECK Health is a concussion protocol execution platform built for sports organizations. Leagues, governing bodies, associations, universities, and teams use HEADCHECK to execute their concussion protocols consistently across every team, staff member, and location. Notable clients include Major League Soccer and MLS Next Pro, the Canadian Football League, the Ontario Hockey League, the British Columbia Hockey League, Cricket South Africa, the University of Alberta, the University of British Columbia, and USA Cycling. Learn more at headcheckhealth.com.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The OHL has partnered with HEADCHECK Health to establish a consistent, high standard of concussion care across every rink.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":300015,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":2673,"name":"OHL News","slug":"ohl-news","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2689,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":4028,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2865"},{"term_id":2459,"name":"Releases","slug":"releases","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":2475,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":257,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3108"}],"class_list":["post-300013","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-ohl-news","tag-releases","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/13104710\/Headcheck-web.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300013","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300013"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300013\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300016,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300013\/revisions\/300016"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300015"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300013"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300013"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300013"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300021,"date":"2026-08-13T13:45:05","date_gmt":"2026-08-13T17:45:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300021"},"modified":"2026-08-13T13:45:41","modified_gmt":"2026-08-13T17:45:41","slug":"ottawa-67s-sign-2026-draft-pick-brayden-jaravata","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/ottawa-67s-sign-2026-draft-pick-brayden-jaravata","title":{"rendered":"67\u2019s sign defenceman Brayden Jaravata"},"content":{"rendered":"

OTTAWA \u2013<\/strong>\u00a0The Ottawa 67\u2019s announced today that defenceman Brayden Jaravata has signed an Ontario Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with the club.<\/p>\n

\u201cBrayden is a mobile defenceman who plays a tenacious, disruptive game,\u201d said General Manager Jan Egert. \u201cHe is uncomfortable to play against and enjoys elevating the temperature of competition.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Vaughan, Ontario native was selected by Ottawa 36th overall in the 2026 OHL Priority Selection. Jaravata spent the 2025-26 season with The Hill Academy U16 AAA, recording 12 goals and 28 assists for 40 points in 63 games. He also represented The Hill Academy at the OHL Cup, adding three points in four games.<\/p>\n

The defenceman is expected to continue his development with St. Andrew\u2019s College during the 2026-27 season.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

OTTAWA \u2013\u00a0The Ottawa 67\u2019s announced today that defenceman Brayden Jaravata has signed an Ontario Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with the club. \u201cBrayden is a mobile defenceman who plays a tenacious, disruptive game,\u201d said General Manager Jan Egert. \u201cHe is uncomfortable to play against and enjoys elevating the temperature of competition.\u201d The Vaughan, Ontario…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":586,"featured_media":300023,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":3716,"name":"Brayden Jaravata","slug":"brayden-jaravata","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3716,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":2,"filter":"raw","term_order":"564"},{"term_id":90,"name":"Ottawa 67's","slug":"ottawa-67s","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":90,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1644,"filter":"raw","term_order":"2924"},{"term_id":890,"name":"Prospects","slug":"prospects","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":901,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1756,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3066"}],"class_list":["post-300021","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-brayden-jaravata","tag-ottawa-67s","tag-prospects","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/13134436\/Jaravata-web.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300021","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/586"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300021"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300021\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300025,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300021\/revisions\/300025"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300023"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300021"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300021"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300021"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":300017,"date":"2026-08-13T11:56:32","date_gmt":"2026-08-13T15:56:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/?p=300017"},"modified":"2026-08-13T11:56:32","modified_gmt":"2026-08-13T15:56:32","slug":"colts-name-blake-ricci-assistant-general-manager","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/article\/colts-name-blake-ricci-assistant-general-manager","title":{"rendered":"Colts name Blake Ricci Assistant General Manager"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Barrie Colts announced today that Blake Ricci<\/strong><\/em> has joined the organization as Assistant General Manager, effective immediately.<\/p>\n

Ricci arrives in Barrie after serving as General Manager of the Toronto Patriots of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL), where he helped build the club into a Buckland Cup champion during the 2025-26 season. A Toronto native, Ricci brings a strong track record of team-building, player development, and hockey operations experience to his new role with the Colts.<\/p>\n

He will work closely with President of Hockey Operations John Winstanley and Vice President and General Manager Marty Williamson as part of the Colts’ hockey operations leadership group as the organization continues to build toward long-term, sustained success both on and off the ice.<\/p>\n

\n

“I am honoured and extremely grateful for the opportunity to join the Barrie Colts,” said Ricci. “It is a privilege to become part of such a respected organization, and I look forward to working alongside John Winstanley and Marty Williamson. Their leadership and experience will provide an invaluable opportunity for me to continue learning and developing, while contributing to John Careri’s long-term vision for the organization. This is an exciting time for the Barrie Colts, and I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and success of the organization both on and off the ice.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Colts announce Blake Ricci as Assistant General Manager, joining John Winstanley and Marty Williamson in the club’s hockey operations leadership group<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":586,"featured_media":300019,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"article","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[186],"tags":[{"term_id":3907,"name":"Blake Ricci","slug":"blake-ricci","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3907,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1,"filter":"raw","term_order":"1"},{"term_id":3905,"name":"Hockey Operations Updates","slug":"hockey-operations-updates","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":3905,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":3,"filter":"raw","term_order":"3"},{"term_id":98,"name":"Barrie Colts","slug":"barrie-colts","term_group":0,"term_taxonomy_id":98,"taxonomy":"post_tag","description":"","parent":0,"count":1574,"filter":"raw","term_order":"410"}],"class_list":["post-300017","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-blake-ricci","tag-hockey-operations-updates","tag-barrie-colts","category-186","description-off"],"acf":[],"featured_image":["https:\/\/media.chl.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/5\/2026\/08\/13115625\/BAR_Web-Aug13.jpg",1920,1080,false],"hide_from_app_feed":false,"video":false,"gallery":null,"ht_game_id":0,"target_video":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300017","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/586"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=300017"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300017\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":300020,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/300017\/revisions\/300020"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/300019"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=300017"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=300017"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chl.ca\/ohl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=300017"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}]