TORONTO, ON — Forty of the Canadian Hockey League’s top prospects for the 2024 NHL Draft completed on-ice testing Tuesday ahead of the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game, which is set to take place tomorrow at the Avenir Centre in Moncton, N.B.
The Sport Testing Combine conducted by the Okanagan Hockey Group offered all players in attendance the opportunity to showcase their individual strengths while gauging their fitness and skill levels among their peers for NHL management and scouts to evaluate.
On-ice tests included forward and backward sprints, weave agility, transition agility, and reaction drills performed with and without the puck:
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for December, proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.
East Division – Carson Cameron (Peterborough Petes)
Peterborough Petes rookie defenceman Carson Cameron is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for December.
Cameron is currently holding an “A” average in three grade 11 university-level courses, including an 81 percent average in Physics, a 78 percentage average in Functions, and an 85 percent average in Fitness Leadership at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School.
“Carson is a responsible, conscientious student. He is currently enrolled in three academic classes with an 81% average,” said Petes Academic Advisor Shannon Fife. “Carson was able to maintain his studies while playing for the U17 World Juniors for Canada and continues to hold himself to a high standard.”
“Carson has done a good job transitioning into the OHL both on and off the ice,” added Petes General Manager Mike Oke. “Despite moving away from home, attending a new school, and the demands of a busy hockey schedule, Carson continues to maintain strong grades.”
The 16-year-old from Bobcaygeon, Ont. has played 26 games this season, recording one goal and 10 assists for the Petes. The 6-foot, 171Ib. blueliner was Peterborough’s first round (13th overall) pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Central Ontario Wolves U16 program. Cameron was selected to represent Canada White at the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in November, bringing home a gold medal.
Central Division – Parker Von Richter (Mississauga Steelheads)
Mississauga Steelheads defenceman Parker Von Richter is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for December.
Von Richter is currently holding excellent grades in three grade 12 university-level courses, including an 86 percentage average in World Issues, a 74 percent average in Advanced Functions, and a 95 percent average in Families in Canada at Port Credit Secondary School.
“Parker is a player who requires no maintenance academically,” said Steelheads Assistant Coach, Matt Chiarantano. “He is truly a joy to have on our hockey club both on the ice and in the classroom. His diligence, proactiveness, and leadership are constantly on display. There is no question Parker fulfills all the standards required to receive this award.”
The 17-year-old hometown product has played 31 games this season, recording a goal and 10 assists for the Steelheads. The 6-foot-1, 183Ib. blueliner was originally selected in the third round (51st overall) by Mississauga in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Marlboros U16 program.
Midwest Division – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Owen Sound Attack goaltender Carter George is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for December.
George has completed three university-level courses this season, including a 95 percent average in English, a 95 percent average in Business Studies, and a 99 percent average in Co-op Studies. George continues to achieve outstanding grades in three additional university-level courses, including a 95 percent average in Advanced Functions, and a 92 percent average in Business Management Fundamentals at Owen Sound District Secondary School and Independent Learning Centre.
“Carter is an extremely hard-working student who always puts forth his best effort, on or off the ice,” said Attack Academic Advisor Sarah Rowe. “He’s always interested to see if his save percentage or his academic average is higher! His teachers describe him as a conscientious student and a leader who is the first to step in and assist his teammates. Carter is enrolled at OSDSS and ILC, allowing him to complete work at an accelerated pace. He demonstrates a maturity beyond his years and a very positive attitude. He is an absolute pleasure to teach.”
The 6-foot-1, 182lb. netminder from Thunder Bay, Ont. has appeared in 29 games this season with the Attack, playing to an 12-11-2-1 record with a 3.08 goals-against average and .912 save percentage. The OHL’s October Rookie of the Month was originally selected by the Attack in the third round (53rd overall) of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. George represented Team Canada at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup this past summer, backstopping his home country to a gold medal. George, who has been selected to compete in the 2024 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in Moncton, NB later this month, is a ‘B’ rated prospect by NHL Central Scouting for the 2024 NHL Draft.
West Division – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
Windsor Spitfires forward Cole Davis is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for December.
Davis is currently achieving an overall average of 82 percent across three grade 12 university-level courses, with an 85 percent average in Chemistry, an 80 percent average in English, and an 83 percent average in Biology at St. Anne Catholic High School.
“Cole is a wonderful young man who shines in the classroom and on the ice,” said Spitfires Academic Advisor Danielle Chevalier. “He always has a smile on his face and is willing to help anyone who needs it. He is a valuable player for the team on and off the ice.”
Named the OHL’s Rookie of the Month for November, Davis has been a solid contributor for the Spitfires this season, recording 12 goals, 10 assists, and 22 points in 34 games played. The 5-foot-10, Dutton, Ont. native was the Spitfires’ fourth round (65th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the York-Simcoe Express U16 program.
2023-24 OHL Academic Players of the Month:
East Division: December – Carson Cameron (Peterborough Petes) November – Charlie Hilton (Ottawa 67’s) October – Noah Bender (Oshawa Generals)
Central Division: December – Parker Von Richter (Mississauga Steelheads) November – Chase Coughlan (Sudbury Wolves) October – Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)
Midwest Division: December – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack) November – Henry Brzustewicz (London Knights) October – Matheas Stark (Kitchener Rangers)
West Division: December – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires) November – Tate Vader (Soo Greyhounds) October – Lukas Fischer (Sarnia Sting)
The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavors.
A total of 333 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2022-23 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.6 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totaled more than $25 million.
A total of 228 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2023-24 season.
About Hockley Valley Resort Hockley Valley Resort is a premier year-round destination, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s scenic countryside just 45 minutes from Toronto. Offering 108 guest rooms, extensive meeting facilities, full-service spa, championship golf course, ski runs and terrain park, and 10 kilometers of mountain biking trails, the resort caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate guests. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and creating unforgettable memories, Hockley Valley Resort offers its guests a welcoming, natural setting, ensuring a memorable stay.
Adamo Estate Winery, sister property to Hockley Valley Resort offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts, featuring exceptional wines crafted with attention to detail and a picturesque vineyard setting. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, guided tours, and special events, immersing themselves in the artistry of winemaking in this emerging wine region of Mono, Ontario.
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Month for regular season games played in December 2023.
Player of the Month – Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights)
London Knights forward Ruslan Gazizov is the OHL Player of the Month for December, leading the league with 24 points including six goals and 18 assists over 11 games as the Knights played to a mark of 8-3-0-0. The 5-foot-11, 185lb. Gazizov registered points in nine of his 11 outings, headlined by a four-point showing on Dec. 14th, followed by a season-high five-point performance on Dec. 15th., scoring a goal and four assists in London’s 8-2 win over the Owen Sound Attack. He proceeded to score twice on Dec. 17th at home to Sudbury, closing out the first half with an overtime game-winner. Gazizov racked up eight different multi-point performances in the month of December, helping the Knights enter the new year on a six-game winning streak.
Selected by the Knights in the first round, 12th overall of the 2021 CHL Import Draft, the 19-year-old comes-off a a solid first half of the season, registering 42 points (15-27-42) in 35 games. Gazizov continues his third-year campaign in London, tallying 48 goals, 70 assists, and 118 points over 145 career OHL regular season contests.
Also considered for the award this month, North Bay Battalion forward Anthony Romani registered eight goals, 13 assists, and 21 points (8-13-21) in 11 games played throughout December. He enters January on a 12-game point streak.
Defenceman of the Month – Nick DeAngelis (Sudbury Wolves)
Sudbury Wolves blueliner Nick DeAngelis is the OHL Defenceman of the Month, riding an OHL season-high 17-game point streak into the month of January. DeAngelis recorded two goals, 13 assists, and 15 points over 11 December outings as the Wolves closed-out 2023 in first place in the Central Division. DeAngelis started the month with a career-high four assist performance as the Wolves beat the Barrie Colts 9-6 on Dec. 1st. He’s recorded at least a point in every game since Nov. 15th., the longest point streak by a Wolves blueliner in the last 25 years of OHL history. DeAngelis becomes the first Wolves blueliner to earn OHL Defenceman of the Month honours since Jack Thompson in October 2021.
A 19-year-old from King City, Ont., DeAngelis leads the Wolves offensively from the back end with 29 points (2-27–29) over 33 games this season along with a plus/minus rating of plus-13. The third-year veteran has registered a total of eight goals, 60 assists, and 68 points over 163 regular season contests spent between the Wolves and the Windsor Spitfires. The 6-foot-2, 195Ib. left-shot defenceman was originally selected in the second round (36th overall) by the Spitfires in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection before joining the Wolves this season. He attended training camp with the Columbus Blue Jackets in September.
Also considered for the award, Vancouver Canucks prospect and OHL scoring leader Hunter Brzustewicz (1-14–15) of the Kitchener Rangers and 2024 NHL Draft prospect Sam Dickinson (6-9–15) of the London Knights each registered 15 points in the month of December.
Goaltender of the Month – Marcus Vandenberg (Sudbury Wolves)
Marcus Vandenberg of the Sudbury Wolves is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for December, playing to a 6-2-1-1 record with a 3.07 goals-against average and .901 save percentage over 10 games spent between Sudbury and the Niagara IceDogs. Vandenberg, who was acquired by Sudbury on Dec. 8th after backstopping Niagara to wins over Kitchener and Peterborough to begin the month, proceeded to win his first two starts with Sudbury in wins over Kingston and Flint. He ended December with consecutive wins, making 22 saves in a victory over North Bay on Dec. 29th and 33 stops in Sault Ste. Marie as the Wolves defeated the West Division-leading Greyhounds 5-1 on Dec. 30th. Vandenberg is the first Wolves goaltender to claim the honour since Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen in December 2018.
A 19-year-old from Dorchester, Ont., Vandenberg has played to a season mark of 7-8-3-1 with a 3.61 goals-against average and .888 save percentage between Sudbury and Niagara. Selected by the Kitchener Rangers in the ninth round (177th overall) of the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, Vandenberg has appeared in 49 career regular season contests, tallying a 16-20-5-1 record, 3.71 goals-against average and .889 save percentage over three seasons.
Also considered for the award this month, Oshawa Generals netminder Jacob Oster played to a 5-2-1-0 record with a 2.76 goals-against-average and .898 save percentage. Brayden Gillespie of the Guelph Storm also remained solid between the pipes, recording a 5-3-1-0 record with a 2.83 goals-against-average and .900 save percentage.
Rookie of the Month – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
Brantford Bulldogs forward Jake O’Brien is the OHL Rookie of the Month, recording 15 points, including three goals and 12 assists over 10 appearances in December. O’Brien registered five multi-point showings over the course of the month, tallying 10 points in his last four games. He recorded a career-high three-point showing on Dec. 28th in a 5-4 win over the Oshawa Generals, followed by another three-point showing on Dec. 31st. O’Brien now ranks second among all OHL rookie skaters in points, registering 28 (5-23-28) through 27 games this season. O’Brien becomes the first Bulldogs player to be named OHL Rookie of the Month since Matthew Strome in March 2016.
A 16-year-old from Toronto, Ont., O’Brien currently ranks second in OHL rookie scoring with 28 points (5-23–28) through 27 games this season. The Toronto, Ont. native was selected eighth overall by the Bulldogs in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16 AAA program. Crowned a 2023 OHL Cup champion, the 6-foot-1, 165Ib. forward was awarded the tournament’s Most Valuable Player Award, registering 17 points (7-10-17) through seven games played last spring.
Also considered for the award, 2024 NHL Draft prospect Sam O’Reilly of the London Knights was also a front-runner, collecting 15 points (3-12–15) over 11 games in December.
2023-24 OHL Performers of the Month:
Player of the Month: December – Ruslan Gazizov (London Knights) November – Filip Mesar (Kitchener Rangers) October – Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Defenceman of the Month: December – Nick DeAngelis (Sudbury Wolves) November – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit) October – Hunter Brzustewicz (Kitchener Rangers)
Goaltender of the Month: December – Marcus Vandenberg (Sudbury Wolves) November – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) October – Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Rookie of the Month: December – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs) November – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires) October – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced top performers for the month of November including Kitchener Rangers teammates Filip Mesar and Jackson Parsons, Saginaw Spirit blueliner Zayne Parekh and Windsor Spitfires forward Cole Davis.
Player of the Month – Filip Mesar (Kitchener Rangers)
Montreal Canadiens prospect Filip Mesar of the Kitchener Rangers is the OHL Player of the Month for November, producing points in nine of his 13 outings, including six goals in his last five games played. He recorded 10 goals, 12 assists, and 24 points this month, helping the Western Conference-leading Rangers play to an 11-3 record. The 5-foot-10, 168lb. forward registered consecutive three-point showings on Nov. 12 and 17., along with a four-point performance on Nov. 21., scoring his first OHL career hat trick in the Rangers’ 10-3 win over the Erie Otters. Mesar gives the Rangers consecutive OHL Player of the Month recipients after teammate Carson Rehkopf earned October’s honours.
Selected ninth overall in the 2021 CHL Import Draft, the 19-year-old from Spisska Bela, Slovakia comes-off a solid first season in the OHL, registering 51 points (17-34-51) in 52 regular season matchups. Montreal’s first round (26th overall) pick in the 2022 NHL Draft has recorded 26 points (11-15–26) through 15 games with the Rangers this season.
Defenceman of the Month – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit)
2024 NHL Draft eligible defenceman Zayne Parekh of the Saginaw Spirit is the OHL Defenceman of the Month, registering seven goals, 12 assists, and 19 points over 12 November outings, including nine points in his last five games. Helping Saginaw win 10 of a possible 12 games last month, Parekh currently ranks second among all defensive point-getters, recording 31 points (9-22-31) over 23 games played this season. Tallying seven multi-point showings last month, he registered three different three-point performances on Nov. 2 and Nov. 29, as well as his first career OHL hat-trick on Nov. 8 as the Spirit defeated the Flint Firebirds 6-3.
A 17-year-old from Nobleton, Ont., Parekh is in his second OHL season after registering 37 points (21-16–37) over 50 games last season, setting a new OHL record for goals by a 16-year-old blueliner with 21. The 6-foot, 180Ib. right-shot defender earned a gold medal for Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup this past summer, and was recently awarded an A-rating on NHL Central Scouting’s October ‘Players to Watch’ List for the 2024 NHL Draft. Parekh was Saginaw’s first round (19th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Markham Majors U16 program.
Goaltender of the Month – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers)
Jackson Parsons of the Kitchener Rangers is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for November, playing to a 9-1 record with a 2.05 goals-against average and .937 save percentage along with two shutouts. Helping lead his team to the top of the Western Conference standings, Parsons posted back-to-back shutouts on Nov. 8 and Nov. 10, including a 30-save performance against the Owen Sound Attack, followed by a 39-save performance against the Peterborough Petes. Parson closed out the month with a 40-save performance on Nov. 29 as the Rangers bested the Erie Otters 5-4 in overtime.
A recently turned 19-year-old from Embrun, Ont., Parsons has come back strong from missing much of 2022-23 to injury, playing to a 14-5 record along with a league-leading 2.43 goals-against average, .921 save percentage and four shutouts so far this season. Selected in the third round (53rd overall) by Kitchener in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, Parsons has appeared in 47 career regular season contests, recording a 24-19-2-0 record, 3.30 goals-against average and .902 save percentage over three seasons.
Rookie of the Month – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
Windsor Spitfires forward Cole Davis is the OHL Rookie of the Month, recording 12 points, including seven goals and five assists over 13 appearances in November. Davis registered four multi-point showings over the course of the month, tallying six points in his last five games. Davis tallied back-to-back two-point showings, recording a pair of goals on Nov. 18 against the Kitchener Rangers, followed by a goal and an assist in a 5-2 win over the Peterborough Petes on Nov. 23. Davis now leads all rookie skaters in points, registering 18 (10-8-18) through 25 games this season.
A 17-year-old from Sutton, Ont., Davis spent the 2022-23 season with the Lasalle Vipers of the GOJHL, recording 46 points (24-22-46) in 47 games played while also appearing in five games with the Spitfires. The 5-foot-10, 175Ib. forward was the Windsor’s fourth round (65th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.
2023-24 OHL Performers of the Month:
Player of the Month: November – Filip Mesar (Kitchener Rangers) October – Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers)
Defenceman of the Month: November – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit) October – Hunter Brzustewicz (Kitchener Rangers)
Goaltender of the Month: November – Jackson Parsons (Kitchener Rangers) October – Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm)
Rookie of the Month: November – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires) October – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for November, proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.
East Division – Charlie Hilton (Ottawa 67’s)
Ottawa 67’s rookie forward Charlie Hilton is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for November.
Hilton achieved an overall average of 82 percent across three university-level courses, including grade 12 Business, English, and Interdisciplinary Studies, and is currently completing grade 12 Law and World issues at Blyth Academy – The Glebe.
“Charlie’s drive and dedication to do well academically is demonstrated daily. He is a positive role model to his fellow teammates and classmates. Charlie’s teachers and Principal Kristy Larose appreciate his work ethic, reliability, and quiet nature,” said 67’s Academic Advisor, Eileen Duffin.
“Charlie has transitioned well to the OHL and daily life with the 67s, quickly becoming a valued member of our team. His work ethic and dedication to both hockey and academics has been exemplary,” added 67’s General Manager, James Boyd.
The 17-year-old from Oshawa, Ont. was selected in the 14th round of the 2022 Priority Selection. Hilton played for the Oshawa Generals U18 program in 2022-23, recording 45 points in 32 games, including 23 goals capturing the OMHA Title with the Generals. Hilton scored his first OHL goal in his hometown of Oshawa on November 11, 2023.
Central Division – Chase Coughlan (Sudbury Wolves)
Sudbury Wolves forward Chase Coughlan is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for November.
Coughlan is currently holding an “A” average in three grade 12 university-level courses, including Nutrition and Health, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Hockey at St. Charles College.
“Chase is known as a great team player, and an excellent member of the Sudbury community,” said Wolves Academic Advisor, Gord Ewin.
The 18-year-old from Toronto, Ont. has played 22 games this season, recording five goals and four assists for the Wolves. The 5-foot-11, 192Ib. right-winger was originally selected in the third round, 59th overall by the Guelph Storm in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection before joining Sudbury last season.
Midwest Division – Henry Brzustewicz (London Knights)
London Knights rookie blueliner Henry Brzustewicz is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for November.
Brzustewicz is currently achieving outstanding grades in five university-level courses, including an 81 percent average in Algebra, a 93 percent average in Economics, a 97 percent average in Visual Arts, and a 98 percent average in Physical Education at Michigan International Prep School.
“Henry has made a serious commitment to academics. He keeps up to all class work and assessments, and independently maintains high academic standards in all that he does. He exhibits a high standard of self-regulation and initiative in all his academic work,” said Knights Academic Advisor, Wendy Glover.
The 6-foot-1, 194lb. defenceman from Washington, Mich. has appeared in 20 games this season, registering a goal and an assist for the Knights. The rookie was originally selected by the Ottawa 67’s in the first round of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection.
West Division – Tate Vader (Soo Greyhounds)
Soo Greyhounds forward Tate Vader is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for November.
Vader is currently achieving an overall average of 96 percent across three university-level courses, with a 94 percent average in English, a 98 percent average in Physics, and a 96 percent average in Advanced Functions at Superior Heights Secondary School.
“Tate is highly respected and well-liked by his classmates and teachers. He has developed and demonstrated work habits and accountability, that will prepare him for a bright academic and hockey future. Congratulations Tate, you are and outstanding representative of the Greyhound hockey family,” said Greyhounds Academic Advisors Jerry Bumbacco and Mary Lynne Lukenda.
The 5-foot-11, 183lb. Gowanstown, Ont. native continues his second season with the Greyhounds, recording an assist in six games played so far this season. Vader was Sault Ste. Marie’s fifth round (92nd overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Huron Perth Lakers U16 program.
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The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavors.
A total of 333 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2022-23 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.6 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totaled more than $25 million.
A total of 228 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2023-24 season.
About Hockley Valley Resort Hockley Valley Resort is a premier year-round destination, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s scenic countryside just 45 minutes from Toronto. Offering 108 guest rooms, extensive meeting facilities, full-service spa, championship golf course, ski runs and terrain park, and 10 kilometers of mountain biking trails, the resort caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate guests. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and creating unforgettable memories, Hockley Valley Resort offers its guests a welcoming, natural setting, ensuring a memorable stay.
Adamo Estate Winery, sister property to Hockley Valley Resort offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts, featuring exceptional wines crafted with attention to detail and a picturesque vineyard setting. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, guided tours, and special events, immersing themselves in the artistry of winemaking in this emerging wine region of Mono, Ontario.
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Matheas Stark of the Kitchener Rangers, Noah Bender of the Oshawa Generals, Ethan Czata of the Niagara IceDogs and Lukas Fischer of the Sarnia Sting have been named Academic Players of the Month for October proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.
East Division – Noah Bender (Oshawa Generals)
Oshawa Generals rookie netminder Noah Bender is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for October.
Bender is currently achieving an overall average of 92 percent across three university-level courses, with a 92 percent average in Advanced Functions, an 86 percent average in Canadian and International Law, and a 98 percent average in High Performance studies at Maxwell Heights Secondary School.
“Noah is described as a hard working, conscientious, and personable individual by his teachers, coaches, and teammates,” said Generals academic advisor Tom Buchanan.
The 17-year-old from Waterloo, Ont. has made two appearances for the Generals this season, making his OHL debut on Oct. 14th in Barrie. Bender was Oshawa’s 12th round (231st overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection before backstopping the PJHL’s Wellesley AppleJacks to a Schmalz Cup title last season as Ontario’s Junior C champions.
Central Division – Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)
Niagara IceDogs rookie forward Ethan Czata is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for October.
Czata is currently holding an “A” average in three grade 11 university-level courses, including American History, Superfit, and Chemistry at Governor Simcoe Secondary School.
“Ethan is an excellent student. He is well respected by both staff and students and is sure to lead to IceDogs for years to come!”, said IceDogs academic advisor, Tim Tope.
The 16-year-old from Brampton, Ont. has played 11 games this season, recording two assists for Niagara. The 6-foot, 160Ib. centreman was selected fifth overall by the IceDogs in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. He’ll be competing for Team Canada White in the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, starting this week on Prince Edward Island.
Midwest Division – Matheas Stark (Kitchener Rangers)
Kitchener Rangers rookie forward Matheas Stark is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for October.
Stark is currently achieving outstanding grades in four university-level courses, including grade 11 English, American History, Chemistry, and Sport Analytics and Management at TPH Academy in partnership with Blyth Academy.
“In his first year with the Kitchener Rangers, Matheas has seamlessly transitioned into the team, making an impact both on and off the ice. His commitment to excel is undeniable, and it is this very trait that makes him the perfect candidate for Academic Player of the Month,” said Rangers academic advisor Dave Tennant.
“Academically, Matheas has exhibited dedication and discipline. Maintaining an impressive “A” average while juggling a demanding academic load is no small feat. With a schedule that includes four challenging University-level courses, Matheas not only meets the academic bar but raises it,” Tennant added. “His work in the classroom is a testament to his focus and commitment to academic success. On the ice, he exudes the same qualities that make him a great student-athlete. His dedication to success and his ability to inspire and lead his peers set the perfect example for all aspiring student-athletes.”
Stark was selected in the third round (47th overall) by Kitchener in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection from the Toronto Marlboros U16 program, and has recorded one goal in six games with the Rangers this season.
West Division – Lukas Fischer (Sarnia Sting)
Sarnia Sting blueliner Lukas Fischer is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for October.
Fischer is currently achieving high grades in Mathematics, English, Earth Science, Health and Nutrition, and Chemistry through a combination of online studies and time at Northern Collegiate Institute & Vocational School in Sarnia.
“Lukas brings a positive and respectful attitude to Northern Collegiate daily, as well as maturity and insight. There is little doubt that he will continue to excel and develop both as a student and as an athlete during his time with the Sting,” said Sting academic advisor Todd Whitlock.
The 6-foot-3, 170lb. defenceman enters his second season with the Sting, recording two goals, six assists, and eight points over 13 games played this season. Fischer was Sarnia’s 11th round (208th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection and was recently included as a ‘B’ rated skater on NHL Central Scouting’s October players to watch list for the 2024 NHL Draft.
The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavors.
A total of 333 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2022-23 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.6 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totaled more than $25 million.
A total of 228 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2023-24 season.
About Hockley Valley Resort Hockley Valley Resort is a premier year-round destination, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s scenic countryside just 45 minutes from Toronto. Offering 108 guest rooms, extensive meeting facilities, full-service spa, championship golf course, ski runs and terrain park, and 10 kilometers of mountain biking trails, the resort caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate guests. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and creating unforgettable memories, Hockley Valley Resort offers its guests a welcoming, natural setting, ensuring a memorable stay.
Adamo Estate Winery, sister property to Hockley Valley Resort offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts, featuring exceptional wines crafted with attention to detail and a picturesque vineyard setting. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, guided tours, and special events, immersing themselves in the artistry of winemaking in this emerging wine region of Mono, Ontario.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced top performers of the month for October, including a small number of games played in September to begin the 2023-24 regular season.
Player of the Month – Carson Rehkopf (Kitchener Rangers) Seattle Kraken prospect Carson Rehkopf of the Kitchener Rangers is the OHL Player of the Month for October, leading the league with 14 goals over 13 games to go with nine assists for 23 points along with a plus/minus rating of plus-10. Rehkopf led the OHL with 62 shots on goal and three game-winning goals. He produced points in 11 of his 13 outings, including consecutive four-point showings on Oct. 13th and 15th. He lit the lamp for a third period natural hat trick in the Rangers’ 8-0 win over the Barrie Colts.
An 18-year-old from Vaughan, Ont., Rehkopf comes-off a 30-goal season in 2022-23 and has produced 62 goals, 53 assists and 115 points in 146 career regular season games with Kitchener since being the Rangers’ first round (17th overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection. The 6-foot-1, 195Ib. forward was Seattle’s second round (50th overall) pick last summer.
Defenceman of the Month – Hunter Brzustewicz (Kitchener Rangers) Vancouver Canucks prospect Hunter Brzustewicz of the Kitchener Rangers is the OHL Defenceman of the Month, leading the league with 25 points including five goals and 20 assists over 13 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-11. Brzustewicz rides a current 12-game point streak into the month of November, registering a four-assist showing on Sept. 30th in Flint along with a total of five three-point efforts in the opening month of the season.
Turning 19 on November 29th, Brzustewicz, who hails from Washington, Michigan, is in his second OHL season after registering 57 points (6-51–57) over 68 games last season. The 6-foot, 188Ib. right-shot defender was Vancouver’s third round (75th overall) pick this past summer. The Rangers acquired Brzustewicz from the Barrie Colts on Jan. 9, 2022 after he was originally Barrie’s fourth round (69th overall) pick in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection.
Goaltender of the Month – Brayden Gillespie (Guelph Storm) Brayden Gillespie of the Guelph Storm is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for October, playing to a 7-3 record with a league-leading 2.02 goals-against average and .932 save percentage along with one shutout. Gillespie posted a 33-save shutout on Oct. 6th against Erie and also factored prominently in victories on Oct. 26th with 34 saves in North Bay and Oct. 29th with 30 saves against Ottawa.
An 18-year-old from Oakville, Ont., Gillespie went 13-6-2-1 with Guelph over 25 games last season after starting the year with the GOJHL’s Ayr Centennials. The 5-foot-11, 155Ib. netminder was the Storm’s 11th round (207th overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection.
Also considered for the award this month, draft eligible netminder Ryerson Leenders went 8-2 with a 2.72 goals-against average and .920 save percentage over 10 games, posting a pair of shutouts for the first place Mississauga Steelheads.
Rookie of the Month – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack) Draft eligible Owen Sound Attack netminder Carter George is the OHL Rookie of the Month for October, playing to a 5-2-1-0 record with a 2.18 goals-against average, .929 save percentage and one shutout. George posted his first career OHL clean sheet on Oct. 14th in Sault Ste. Marie, making 34 saves as the Attack defeated the Greyhounds 4-0. All five of George’s October victories featured at least 29 saves, headlined by a pair of first star performances.
A 17-year-old from Thunder Bay, Ont., George maintains designated rookie status in the OHL this season as a result of playing in just 10 games last year when he went 7-3 with a 2.41 goals-against average with a .924 save percentage, splitting time between the Bears and the GOJHL’s St. Marys Lincolns. George backstopped Canada’s national men’s under-18 team to gold at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup this past summer. He was recently listed as a ‘B’ rated goaltender on NHL Central Scouting’s October players to watch list. He was Owen Sound’s third round (53rd overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection.
Also considered for recognition this month, draft eligible Mississauga Steelheads defender Jakub Fibigr led OHL rookies with 11 points (2-9–11) in 13 games from the blueline.
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League is proud to recognize 44 players and prospects who were invited to participate in Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence summer meetings in preparation for the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge and the 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship.
A total of 45 players were invited to the National Junior Team summer meetings, with 16 from the Ontario Hockey League. The list of attendees was compiled by Alan Millar (Regina Pats), director of player personnel and Peter Anholt (Lethbridge Hurricanes), the U20 lead for the Program of Excellence management group, with input from Scott Salmond, senior vice-president of hockey operations and Benoit Roy, senior manager of hockey operations.
An additional 66 under-17 players attended the meetings, with 28 from the Ontario Hockey League. The U17 meetings attendees were selected by Millar, Byron Bonora, U17 head scout and Dave Brown (Erie Otters), the U17 lead for the Program of Excellence management group, with input from Salmond and regional scouts Rob Simpson (London Knights/Ontario), Pierre Cholette (QMJHL Central Scouting/Quebec), Darren Sutherland (Atlantic) and Darrell Woodley (OHL Central Scouting/Ontario).
Players took part in virtual meetings that covered a variety of topics, including education on the Program of Excellence, Sport Safety presentations, short-term international competition preparation and meetings with the Hockey Canada management group. The discussions will allow participants to continue to evolve as high-performance athletes and utilize the strengths and experience of the Program of Excellence’s leadership.
Players will continue to be evaluated through the early portion of the 2023-24 season before Canadian rosters are named for the 2023 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge and the 2024 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship in Gothenburg, Sweden.
OHL Players – National Junior Team Summer Meetings (16):
Goaltenders: Domenic DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion)
Defencemen: Michael Buchinger (Guelph Storm) Jorian Donovan (Brantford Bulldogs) Isaiah George (London Knights) Ty Nelson (North Bay Battalion) Spencer Sova (Erie Otters)
Forwards: Nico Addy (Owen Sound Attack, Toronto Jr. Canadiens, GTHL) Ryan Brown (Sarnia Sting/York-Simcoe Express, OMHA) Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs/Mississauga Rebels, GTHL) Owen Griffin (Oshawa Generals/York-Simcoe Express, OMHA) Tyler Hopkins (Kingston Frontenacs/Halton Hurricanes, OMHA) Lev Katzin (Guelph Storm/Toronto Marlboros, GTHL) Brady Martin (Soo Greyhounds/Waterloo Wolves, ALLIANCE) Jeremy Martin (Flint Firebirds/Toronto Marlboros, GTHL) Jack Nesbitt (Windsor Spitfires/Lambton Jr. Sting, ALLIANCE) Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs/Toronto Jr. Canadiens, GTHL) Luca Romano (Kitchener Rangers/Toronto Jr. Canadiens, GTHL) Ryan Roobroeck (Niagara IceDogs/London Jr. Knights, ALLIANCE) Wesley Royston (Erie Otters/York-Simcoe Express, OMHA) Parker Snelgrove (Guelph Storm/London Jr. Knights, ALLIANCE) Caden Taylor (Sudbury Wolves/Mississauga Senators, GTHL) Aiden Young (Saginaw Spirit/London Jr. Knights, ALLIANCE)
For more information on Hockey Canada and the Program of Excellence, please visit HockeyCanada.ca, or follow along through social media on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram.
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the first, second and third all-star team selections, in addition to the first and second all-rookie team designations for the 2022-23 season.
OHL all-star and all-rookie teams were selected by the OHL’s General Managers, with voting conducted in two stages beginning with a Conference ballot followed by a final ballot that integrated the top selections from both the Eastern and Western Conferences.
A total of 12 of the league’s 20 member teams are represented on his year’s all-star and all-rookie team selections, with the Western Conference champion London Knights leading the way with seven. The OHL champion Peterborough Petes join the Sarnia Sting trailing with four members recognized while the North Bay Battalion, Ottawa 67’s, Saginaw Spirit and Windsor Spitfires each boast three.
Historical results of note include North Bay’s Domenic DiVincentiis becoming the first Battalion netminder ever selected to a first all-star team while Troops head coach Ryan Oulahen was voted to an all-star team for the first time in his OHL career. NHL Draft eligible left-winger Colby Barlow was voted to the first all-star team, giving the Attack their first forward to receive the designation since Joey Hishon and Garrett Wilson in 2010-11. The four Sarnia Sting representatives (Del Mastro, Pastujov, Voit, Kyrou) voted to all-star teams matches a franchise record set back in 1995-96.
On the all-rookie teams front, the Saginaw Spirit become the first team to have three players (Misa, Parekh, Willis) voted to a first all-rookie team since the 1993-94 North Bay Centennials (Jinman, Neilson, Yachmenev). Liam Greentree became the first Windsor Spitfires forward voted to an OHL all-rookie team since Taylor Hall in 2007-08. Mason Vaccari is the first Kingston Frontenacs goaltender voted to an all-rookie team since Curtis Cruickshank in 1996-97.
2022-23 OHL All-Star & All-Rookie Teams:
Representatives with major positional awards in brackets are default first team members, all other designations are determined by votes cast by OHL General Managers
First All-Star Team: C – Logan Morrison, Ottawa 67’s LW – Colby Barlow, Owen Sound Attack – voted 1st all-rookie team in 2021-22 RW – Matthew Maggio, Windsor Spitfires (Most Outstanding Player) D – Pavel Mintyukov, Ottawa 67’s (Defenceman of the Year) – voted 3rd all-star team in 2021-22 D – Brandt Clarke, Barrie Colts – voted 2nd all-star team in 2021-22 and 1st all-rookie team in 2019-20 G – Domenic DiVincentiis, North Bay Battalion (Goaltender of the Year) – voted 2nd all-rookie team in 2021-22 Coach – Dave Cameron, Ottawa 67’s (Coach of the Year) – fifth time being voted to an OHL all-star team
Second All-Star Team C – Amadeus Lombardi, Flint Firebirds LW – Sasha Pastujov, Sarnia Sting RW – Ty Voit, Sarnia Sting D – Ethan Del Mastro, Sarnia Sting D – Logan Mailloux, London Knights G – Brett Brochu, London Knights – voted 1st all-star team in 2021-22 and 1st all-rookie team in 2019-20 Coach – Dale Hunter, London Knights – seventh time being voted to an OHL all-star team
Third All-Star Team C – Owen Beck, Peterborough Petes – voted 2nd all-rookie team in 2021-22 LW – Brennan Othmann, Peterborough Petes – voted 1st all-star team in 2021-22 and 1st all-rookie team in 2019-20 RW – Avery Hayes, Peterborough Petes D – Ty Nelson, North Bay Battalion – voted 2nd all-rookie team in 2021-22 D – Christian Kyrou, Sarnia Sting G – Michael Simpson, Peterborough Petes Coach – Ryan Oulahen, North Bay Battalion
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of playoff games ending Sunday, May 14, 2023.
Petes’ Tucker Robertson Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Seattle Kraken prospect Tucker Robertson of the Peterborough Petes is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, posting two goals, three assists and five points in three games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-3.
A 19-year-old native of Toronto, Ont., Robertson recorded 36 goals, 54 assists and a club-leading 90 points in 68 games this season, making him the first Petes player since Daniel Ryder (2005, 2006) to record back-to-back 80+ point seasons in maroon and white. Among the league’s top faceoff performers, Robertson won 58.5 percent of his faceoffs during the 2022-23 regular season. He sits second in Petes playoff scoring with 17 points (7-10–17) in 19 games. Robertson was a fourth round (123rd overall) pick of the Seattle Kraken following 41 goals, 40 assists and 81 points in 68 games last season. The former fourth round (72nd overall) pick by the Petes in 2019 has registered 85 goals, 104 assists and 189 points in 191 career regular season OHL contests.
2022-23 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Playoffs: May 8 – May 14: Tucker Robertson (Peterborough Petes) May 1 – May 7: Ryan Winterton (London Knights) Apr. 24 – Apr. 30: Connor Lockhart (Peterborough Petes) Apr. 17 – Apr. 23: Denver Barkey (London Knights) Apr. 10 – Apr. 16: Evan Vierling (Barrie Colts) Apr. 3 – Apr. 9: Luca Pinelli (Ottawa 67’s) Mar. 27 – Apr. 2: Matyas Sapovaliv (Saginaw Spirit)
Petes’ Michael Simpson Named OHL Goaltender of the Week
Michael Simpson of the Peterborough Petes is the OHL Goaltender of the Week, going 2-1 with a 2.35 goals-against average and .936 save percentage.
Simpson helped the Petes defeat the North Bay Battalion in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Championship Series on Monday, stopping 22 of the 24 shots that came his way in a 3-2 win. The 6-foot-1, 198lb. netminder returned to the crease in his hometown of London on Thursday, making 29 saves in a 3-0 loss to the Knights. Simpson rebounded with a 51-save performance on Saturday in Game 2, closing out the week with a 5-3 victory to knot the OHL Championship Series at one win apiece.
A 20-year-old from London, Ont., Simpson played to a 24-22-2-2 record with a 2.73 goals-against average and .914 save percentage in 51 games this past season, leading the OHL in saves (1,442) and minutes played (2,989). He’s currently 13-6 with a 2.76 goals-against average and .916 save percentage in the 2023 OHL Playoffs. Simpson was the OHL’s Goaltender of the Month for October 2022. He played to a mark of 20-18-3-1 in 2021-22, registering a 3.56 goals-against average and .891 save percentage. Simpson was a 10th round (193rd overall) pick by the Petes in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection from the London Jr. Knights U16 program.
2022-23 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Playoffs: May 8 – May 14: Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes) May 1 – May 7: Dom DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion) Apr. 24 – Apr. 30: Brett Brochu (London Knights) Apr. 17 – Apr. 23: Brett Brochu (London Knights) Apr. 10 – Apr. 16: Ben Gaudreau (Sarnia Sting) Apr. 3 – Apr. 9: Brett Brochu (London Knights) Mar. 27 – Apr. 2: Marco Costantini (Kitchener Rangers)
2022-23 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season: Mar. 20 – Mar. 26: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s) Mar. 13 – Mar. 19: Liam Sztuska (Peterborough Petes) Mar. 6 – Mar. 12: Dom DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion) Feb. 27 – Mar. 5: Dom DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion) Feb. 20 – Feb. 26: Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes) Feb. 13 – Feb. 19: Tristan Lennox (Saginaw Spirit) Feb. 6 – Feb. 12: Zach Bowen (London Knights) Jan 30 – Feb. 5: Nate Krawchuk (Sudbury Wolves) Jan 23 – Jan. 29: Jacob Oster (Oshawa Generals) Jan 16 – Jan. 22: Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs) Jan 9 – Jan. 15: Matteo Drobac (Hamilton Bulldogs) Jan. 2 – Jan. 8: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s) Dec. 26 – Jan. 1: Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes) Dec. 12 – Dec. 18: Marco Costantini (Kitchener Rangers) Dec. 5 – Dec. 11: Owen Flores (Niagara IceDogs) Nov. 28 – Dec. 4: Dom DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion) Nov. 21 – Nov. 27: Brett Brochu (London Knights) Nov. 14 – Nov. 20: Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes) Nov. 7 – Nov. 13: Joe Ranger (Sudbury Wolves) Oct. 31 – Nov. 6: Tristan Lennox (Saginaw Spirit) Oct. 24 – Oct. 30: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack) Oct. 17 – Oct. 23: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s) Oct. 10 – Oct. 16: Ivan Zhigalov (Kingston Frontenacs) Oct. 3 – Oct. 9: Alessio Beglieri (Mississauga Steelheads) Sept. 29 – Oct. 2: Ben Gaudreau (Sarnia Sting)
About the Ontario Hockey League The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.
OHL Writers 