OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR MARCH

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Top OHL Performers of the Month for regular season games played in March 2023, including Barrie Colts defenceman Brandt Clarke, North Bay Battalion goaltender Domenic DiVincentiis and North Bay Battalion rookie netminder Charlie Robertson.

OHL Player & Defenceman of the Month – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts):
Los Angeles Kings prospect Brandt Clarke of the Barrie Colts is both the OHL Player and Defenceman of the Month, recording 11 goals, 11 assists and 22 points in nine games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-16. Clarke helped the Colts play to a March record of 8-2-0-1, recording points in all nine of his contests, including seven multi-point showings. Clarke recorded his first OHL career hat trick on Mar. 2nd as the Colts fell to the Hamilton Bulldogs 7-5. The 6-foot-2, 188lb. blueliner went on to register a pair of goals and assists including the game-tying goal on Mar. 15th against Mississauga as the Colts came up short in a shootout. Clarke closed out the month scoring another hat trick on top of a pair of helpers in a high-scoring 11-4 win over the Niagara IceDogs on Mar. 18th. This mark’s Clarke’s fourth career OHL Defenceman of the Month honour after he was previously recognized in February.

A 20-year-old from Nepean, Ont., Clarke knotted a Colts single-season club record with 23 goals from the back end, doing so in just 31 games. He finished the season fifth among OHL blueliners with 61 points (23-38–61) and has produced career totals that include 40 goals, 118 assists and a franchise record 158 points by a defenceman in 143 regular season outings. Now in his third season with the Colts, Clarke was voted to the League’s second all-star team in 2021-22, recording 59 points (11-48–59) in 55 games. The blueliner was Barrie’s first round (4th overall) pick in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection from the Don Mills Flyers U16 program. He was a first round (8th overall) pick of the Los Angeles Kings in the 2021 NHL Draft, and signed a three-year entry level NHL contract with the club on Aug. 10, 2021. He played in nine games with Los Angeles earlier this season, recording two assists in the process, and was a Canadian World Junior gold medalist this past January.

OHL Goaltender of the Month – Domenic DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion):
Winnipeg Jets prospect Domenic DiVincentiis of the North Bay Battalion is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for the second time this season, playing to a 6-0-0-0 record with a 1.00 goals-against average, a .968 save percentage and three shutout victories. DiVincentiis made 181 saves last month, winning all six of his outings for the back-to-back Central Division champions. He stopped all 46 shots that came his way on Mar. 3rd as the Battalion blanked the Mississauga Steelheads 3-0. He turned aside the 27 shots he faced the following week at home as the Battalion defeated the London Knights by a score of 4-0 on Mar. 12th. He closed out March with his third shutout of the month and his fifth of the season, blocking all 15 shots he faced as North Bay blanked the Hamilton Bulldogs 4-0 on Mar. 23rd.

An 18-year-old Bolton, Ont. native, DiVincentiis led the OHL’s regular season with 36 wins, a 2.33 goals-against average and .919 save percentage over 48 games, all figures that establish new Battalion single season records. His five shutouts were tied for the OHL lead and equal a Battalion club mark. Helping backstop the Battalion to the Eastern Conference Championship Series last season, the 6-foot-2, 190lb. goaltender has played to a career mark of 50-17-2-1 with a 2.42 goals-against average and .915 save percentage in 75 regular season games with North Bay. He was the OHL’s F.W. ‘Dinty’ Moore Trophy winner in 2021-22, posting a 2.59 goals-against average while also being voted to the League’s second all-rookie team. DiVincentiis was selected by the Winnipeg Jets in the seventh round (207th overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft. He was originally North Bay’s sixth round (116th overall) pick in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection from the Vaughan Kings U16 program.

OHL Rookie of the Month – Charlie Robertson (North Bay Battalion):
Draft eligible North Bay Battalion netminder Charlie Robertson is the OHL Rookie of the Month for March, playing to a 5-0-0-0 record with a 1.79 goals-against average and .942 save percentage with two shutouts. Robertson made 145 saves in March, winning all five of his outings to help the Battalion clinch a second-straight Central Division title. He stopped all 20 shots that came his way on Mar. 5th to earn his second OHL career shutout as the Battalion blanked the Niagara IceDogs 4-0. He returned to the crease on Mar. 10th, turning aside all 28 shots in a 3-0 win over the Oshawa Generals to earn his second consecutive shutout. Robertson closed out March with a 5-2 win over the Mississauga Steelheads on Mar. 26th, making 44 saves to earn first star recognition. Robertson is North Bay’s first OHL Rookie of the Month recipient since defenceman Cam Dineen, who last claimed the honour in January 2016.

A 17-year-old from London, Ont., Robertson finished the season with a 12-6-0-1 record, a 3.17 goals-against average, .892 save percentage and three shutouts in his 21 games. The 6-foot-3, 167Ib. netminder was North Bay’s seventh round (130th overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the London Jr. Knights U16 program. He competed in the 2023 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game, and was the OHL’s top-ranked goaltender on NHL Central Scouting’s Midseason Rankings, coming in at 12th in North America.

2022-23 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
March – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts)
February – Matthew Maggio (Windsor Spitfires)
January – Colby Barlow (Owen Sound Attack)
December – Francesco Pinelli (Kitchener Rangers)
November – Sean McGurn (London Knights)
October – Brennan Othmann (Flint Firebirds)

Defenceman of the Month:
March – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts)
February – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts)
January – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts)
December – Pavel Mintyukov (Saginaw Spirit)
November – Pavel Mintyukov (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Pavel Mintyukov (Saginaw Spirit)

Goaltender of the Month:
March – Domenic DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion)
February – Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
January – Domenic DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion)
December – Anson Thornton (Barrie Colts)
November – Tristan Lennox (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes)

Rookie of the Month:
March – Charlie Robertson (North Bay Battalion)
February – Nate Krawchuk (Sudbury Wolves)
January – Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires)
December – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit)
November – Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
October – Michael Misa (Saginaw Spirit)


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.

MIEDEMA AND MACKENZIE NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, March 26, 2023.



Frontenacs’ Ethan Miedema Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

2023 NHL Draft prospect Ethan Miedema of the Kingston Frontenacs is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording six goals, two assists and eight points in three games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-6.

Recording two four-point nights last week, Miedema got things started with four goals in a 6-2 win over the Oshawa Generals on Wednesday. The four-goal effort was the first by a Frontenac since Warren Foegele last netted four in a game on Mar. 26, 2016. The 6-foot-4, 201 lb. forward closed out the weekend with a pair of goals and assists to earn first star honours as the Frontenacs defeated the Generals in a high-scoring 10-2 road win to wrap-up the season on Sunday.

An 18-year-old native of Cobourg, Ont., Miedema has produced nine goals, 12 assists and 21 points in 32 games since joining the Frontenacs in January. In total, Miedema recorded 20 goals, 32 assists and 52 points in 68 games between Windsor and Kingston in 2022-23. The former first round (4th overall) pick by the Spitfires in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection has registered 34 goals, 56 assists and 90 points in 133 career regular season games. Miedema competed in the Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game in January, and was the 45th-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s Midseason Rankings.

Also considered for the award this week, Anaheim Ducks prospect Sasha Pastujov of the Sarnia Sting produced two goals, seven assists and nine points in four games. Logan Morrison of the Ottawa 67’s contributed two goals and four assists for six points in a pair of victories.

2022-23 Cogeco OHL Players of the Week – Regular Season:
Mar. 20 – Mar. 26: Ethan Miedema (Kingston Frontenacs)
Mar. 13 – Mar. 19: Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts)
Mar. 6– Mar. 12: Sahil Panwar (Hamilton Bulldogs)
Feb. 27 – Mar. 5: Christian Kyrou (Sarnia Sting)
Feb. 20 – Feb. 26: Braeden Bowman (Guelph Storm)
Feb. 13 – Feb. 19: Nolan Burke (Sarnia Sting)
Feb. 6 – Feb. 12: Sean McGurn (London Knights)
Jan. 30 – Feb. 5: Matthew Maggio (Windsor Spitfires)
Jan. 23 – Jan. 29: Sahil Panwar (Hamilton Bulldogs)
Jan. 16 – Jan. 22: James Hardie (Mississauga Steelheads)
Jan. 9 – Jan. 15: Colby Barlow (Owen Sound Attack)
Jan. 2 – Jan. 8: Bryce McConnell-Barker (Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 26 – Jan. 1: Connor Lockhart (Peterborough Petes)
Dec. 12 – Dec. 18: Evan Vierling (Barrie Colts)
Dec. 5 – Dec. 11: Ryan Gagnier (Oshawa Generals)
Nov. 28 – Dec. 4: Quentin Musty (Sudbury Wolves)
Nov. 21 – Nov. 27: Jorian Donovan (Hamilton Bulldogs)
Nov. 14 – Nov. 20: Matthew Poitras (Guelph Storm)
Nov. 7 – Nov. 13: Brody Crane (London Knights)
Oct. 31 – Nov. 6: Matvey Petrov (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 24 – Oct. 30: Deni Goure (Owen Sound Attack)
Oct. 17 – Oct. 23: Owen Beck (Mississauga Steelheads)
Oct. 10 – Oct. 16: Matthew Maggio (Windsor Spitfires)
Oct. 3 – Oct. 9: Pavel Mintyukov (Saginaw Spirit)
Sept. 29 – Oct. 2: Tucker Robertson (Peterborough Petes)
 



67’s’ Collin MacKenzie Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Collin MacKenzie of the Ottawa 67’s is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the second time this season, going 3-0 with a 1.35 goals-against average and a .953 save percentage.

Stopping a total of 81 shots last week, MacKenzie turned aside 30 of the 31 attempts that came his way on Thursday as Ottawa defeated the Peterborough Petes 4-1. The 6-foot, 171lb. netminder was back in the crease on Friday, stopping 26 of the 28 shots he faced as the 67’s shut down the Petes on back-to-back nights. MacKenzie closed out the weekend with a 5-1 win over the Barrie Colts, blocking 25 of the 26 shots he faced to earn Ottawa’s fifth consecutive win, establishing a franchise record with 51 wins and 107 points in the standings.

An 18-year-old from Elora, Ont., MacKenzie joined goaltending partner Max Donoso in receiving the Dave Pinkney Trophy presented to the goaltenders of the team that surrenders the fewest goals-against during the regular season. MacKenzie finished the season with a 21-2-3-0 record, a 1.88 goals-against average and .928 save percentage in 30 games. He set an OHL record on Oct. 21st in Sault Ste. Marie when he made 15 consecutive shootout saves in a 2-1 victory over the Greyhounds. MacKenzie was Ottawa’s eighth round (160th overall) pick in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection from the Waterloo Wolves U16 program.

Also in the running for the award this week, rookie netminder Charlie Robertson of the North Bay Battalion recorded a two-win week with a 2.00 goals-against average, and .947 save percentage. Joey Costanzo of the Windsor Spitfires also played to a 2-0 mark with a 2.00 goals-against average and .941 save percentage.

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 ANNOUNCES 2022-23 REGULAR SEASON AWARD WINNERS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced recipients of the League’s annual regular season awards.

Mar27HamiltonSpectator

Hamilton Spectator Trophy (Best Record During the Regular Season) – Ottawa 67’s
The Ottawa 67’s set new franchise records on the final weekend of the season, finishing with 51 wins and 107 points atop the OHL standings.

The Hamilton Spectator Trophy is their sixth, following past regular season titles in 2020, 2019, 1997, 1982 and 1978.

The 51-12-3-2 67’s finished-out the season surrendering a League-low 171 goals while boasting the OHL’s best home record, going 29-4-0-1 at TD Place. Defending OHL Playoff MVP Logan Morrison led the club in scoring, recording 94 points (40-54–94) over 56 games.

The Hamilton Spectator Trophy was first presented to the Ontario Hockey Association in the 1957-58 season. Winners have gone on to capture the OHL championship 25 times and the Memorial Cup 11 times. The Hamilton Bulldogs were both J. Ross Robertson Cup champions as well as Hamilton Spectator Trophy recipients in 2021-22. Prior to that, the 2017 Erie Otters hoisted the Robertson Cup following their second straight regular season title while the 2009 Windsor Spitfires were the last OHL club to complete the trifecta, emerging as Memorial Cup champions.

The 67’s are in pursuit of their fourth OHL championship after recently coming in as finalists in 2019. They last hoisted the J. Ross Robertson Cup in 2001 and are two-time Memorial Cup champions, capturing CHL supremacy in both 1984 and 1999.

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Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy (Top Scorer) & Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy (Top Scoring Right Winger) – Matthew Maggio, Windsor Spitfires
For the second straight year, a Windsor Spitfires player is taking home the Eddie Powers Trophy, receiving the OHL’s Top Scorer Award presented by Kubota Canada. As the OHL’s top-scoring right winger, Maggio also earns the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy.

New York Islanders prospect Matthew Maggio paced the OHL with 111 points including a League-leading 54 goals along with 57 assists in 66 games. Maggio was a plus-41 performer, scoring just four of his 54 goals on the power play to become one of four players in the past decade to score at least 45 even strength goals in a season.

Maggio tied a Spitfires single game franchise record with his five goals on Dec. 15th in a 6-3 win over the Erie Otters, joining Daniel D’Amico, Paul Gagne and Gerry Leroux as the fourth Spitfire to accomplish the feat. He follows last year’s Eddie Powers Trophy recipient, former teammate Wyatt Johnston in becoming the fourth player in modern Spitfires franchise history to claim the honour. Other recipients have included Taylor Hall (2009-10) and Peter Sarno (1997-98) while Earl Reibel (1949-50) and Bert Giesebrecht (1948-49) also have their names etched on the trophy.

A fifth round (142nd overall) pick by the New York Islanders last summer, the overage Maggio wraps-up his OHL regular season career with 99 goals, 118 assists and 217 points over 212 contests spent between Windsor and the Ottawa 67’s, who selected him in the fifth round (86th overall) of the 2018 OHL Priority Selection. Maggio recorded 17 points (7-10–17) in 25 games last spring as the Spits won a Western Conference title and reached Game 7 of the OHL Championship Series.

The Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy was donated by the Toronto Marlboro Athletic Club in memory of Eddie Powers and was first awarded in 1945-46 to Tod Sloan of St. Michael’s who scored 79 points in 25 games. In addition to Johnston, other recent recipients have included Marco Rossi of the Ottawa 67’s in 2019-20, high-scoring present-day Dallas Stars winger Jason Robertson of the Niagara IceDogs in 2018-19, along with former Spitfire Aaron Luchuk, who claimed the honour as a member of the Barrie Colts in 2017-18.

Additionally, Maggio is the first Windsor Spitfires player to ever win the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy as the OHL’s top scoring right-winger.

The Jim Mahon Trophy was first presented following the 1971-72 season by the players and management of the Peterborough Petes in memory of their right winger Jim Mahon who was accidentally killed that summer. Recent recipients have included Lucas Edmonds of the Kingston Frontenacs in 2021-22, Arthur Kaliyev of the Hamilton Bulldogs in 2019-20, Justin Brazeau of the North Bay Battalion in 2018-19 and Jordan Kyrou of the Sarnia Sting in 2017-18.

Mar27DonosoPinkney
Mar27MacKenziePinkney

Dave Pinkney Trophy (Lowest Team Goals-Against) – Max Donoso and Collin MacKenzie, Ottawa 67’s
The Ottawa 67’s surrendered a League-low 171 goals over their 68-game schedule during a season that resulted in a franchise record 51 wins and 107 points. They were backstopped by the goaltending duo of Max Donoso and Collin MacKenzie, who earn the Dave Pinkney Trophy in 2022-23.

Donoso and MacKenzie helped the 67’s earn their sixth Hamilton Spectator Trophy in franchise history as the club allowed just over 2.5 goals-per-game.

Donoso played in 47 of Ottawa’s 68 games, recording the eighth 30+ win season by a goaltender in 67’s franchise history as he boasted a record of 30-10-0-2 with a 2.72 goals-against average and .898 save percentage with two shutouts. The native of Windsor, Ont. was a fifth round (98th overall) pick by the 67’s in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection and owns a career record of 41-19-1-7 with a 2.75 goals-against average, .901 save percentage and three shutouts in 74 regular season games.

MacKenzie continued a tremendous start to his OHL career to open the season, carrying over a 4-0 record from 2021-22 to win his first 10 consecutive decisions, the most by a goaltender in the past 25 years of OHL history. He also set a new OHL record on Oct. 21st in Sault Ste. Marie when he made 15 consecutive shootout saves in a 2-1 victory over the Greyhounds. The 18-year-old from Elora, Ont. posted an impressive 1.88 goals-against average, .928 save percentage and a record of 21-2-3-0 in 30 games. The former eighth round (160th overall) pick by Ottawa in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection is a career 25-2-3-0 over 38 regular season games.

This marks the eighth time the 67’s have led the League with the fewest goals-against. Past 67’s goaltenders with their names engraved on the trophy include Cedrick Andree and Will Cranley (2019-20), Cedrick Andree and Michael DiPietro (2018-19), Craig Hillier and Seamus Kotyk (1997-98), Tim Keyes and Craig Hillier (1996-97), Darren Pang and Greg Coram (1983-84), Jim Ralph (1980-81) and Michel “Bunny” Larocque (1971-72).

BowenUodate

F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy (Besst Rookie Goals-Against Average): Zach Bowen, London Knights
Zach Bowen of the London Knights is the recipient of the F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy, leading all qualified rookie netminders with a 3.10 goals-against average.

An 18-year-old from Kanata, Ont., Bowen played to a mark of 17-4-0-0, with an .899 save percentage and one shutout over 26 contests. He went on a run of 15 consecutive wins between Nov. 12th and Feb. 18th, the second-longest such streak in the past 25 years of OHL history. Bowen was London’s fourth round (77th overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection last season after going undrafted in 2021.

Bowen follows current goaltending partner Brett Brochu, who won the Dinty Moore Trophy in 2019-20. Other Knights recipients have included Jordan Kooy in 2017-18, Ryan MacDonald in 2003-04, Sean Basilio in 1989-90 and Barry Heard in 1976-77.

The trophy is named after F.W. “Dinty” Moore of Port Colborne, Ont., who served as OHA President from 1942-45. In order to qualify for this rookie award, a goaltender must play a minimum of 900 minutes. Last year’s winner was Domenic DiVincentiis of the North Bay Battalion.

For a look at the history of the Ontario Hockey League’s award recipients, click here


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 ANNOUNCES FIRST ROUND SCHEDULE FOR 2023 OHL PLAYOFFS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – With the conclusion of the 2022-23 Regular Season, the Ontario Hockey League has announced schedules for all eight first round series in the 2023 OHL Playoffs, five of which get underway on Thursday, March 30th.

The Ottawa 67’s and Windsor Spitfires enter the postseason as the top seeds in their respective conferences while the defending OHL champion Hamilton Bulldogs embark on the playoffs as the sixth-seed in the Eastern Conference.

Don’t miss a moment of the 2023 OHL Playoffs on OHL Live, with playoff passes now on sale at ohllive.com.

First Round Playoff Schedule – Eastern Conference

SERIES A – (1) Ottawa 67’s vs. (8) Oshawa Generals
Game 1 – Thurs. March 30 at Ottawa, 7:00pm (in Gatineau)
Game 2 – Sun. April 2 at Ottawa, 2:00pm (in Gatineau)
Game 3 – Tues. April 4 at Oshawa, 7:05pm
Game 4 – Thurs. April 6 at Oshawa, 7:05pm
Game 5 – Sat. April 8 at Ottawa, 2:00pm (in Gatineau)*
Game 6 – Sun. April 9 at Oshawa, 6:05pm*
Game 7 – Tues. April 11 at Ottawa, 7:00pm*

SERIES B – (2) North Bay Battalion vs. (7) Mississauga Steelheads
Game 1 – Fri. March 31 at North Bay, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Sun. April 2 at North Bay, 2:00pm
Game 3 – Tues. April 4 at Mississauga, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Wed. April 5 at Mississauga, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Fri. April 7 at North Bay, 7:00pm*
Game 6 – Sun. April 9 at Mississauga, 2:00pm*
Game 7 – Tues. April 11 at North Bay, 7:00pm*

SERIES C – (3) Barrie Colts vs. (6) Hamilton Bulldogs
Game 1 – Thurs. March 30 at Barrie, 7:30pm
Game 2 – Sat. April 1 at Barrie, 7:30pm
Game 3 – Sun. April 2 at Hamilton, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Tues. April 4 at Hamilton, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Thurs. April 6 at Barrie, 7:30pm*
Game 6 – Mon. April 10 at Hamilton, 7:00pm*
Game 7 – Tues. April 11 at Barrie, 7:30pm*

SERIES D – (4) Peterborough Petes vs. (5) Sudbury Wolves
Game 1 – Thurs. March 30 at Peterborough, 7:05pm
Game 2 – Fri. March 31 at Peterborough, 7:05pm
Game 3 – Tues. April 4 at Sudbury, 7:05pm
Game 4 – Wed. April 5 at Sudbury, 7:05pm
Game 5 – Fri. April 7 at Peterborough, 7:05pm*
Game 6 – Sun. April 9 at Sudbury, 7:05pm*
Game 7 – Tues. April 11 at Peterborough, 7:05pm*

*- if necessary

 

First Round Playoff Schedule – Western Conference:

SERIES A – (1) Windsor Spitfires, vs. (8) Kitchener Rangers
Game 1 – Thurs. March 30 at Windsor, 7:05pm
Game 2 – Sat. April 1 at Windsor, 7:05pm
Game 3 – Tues. April 4 at Kitchener, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thurs. April 6 at Kitchener, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Sat. April 8 at Windsor, 7:05pm*
Game 6 – Sun. April 9 at Kitchener, 7:00pm*
Game 7 – Tues. April 11 at Windsor, 7:05pm*

SERIES B – (2) London Knights vs. (7) Owen Sound Attack
Game 1 – Fri. March 31 at London, 7:00pm
Game 2 – Sun. April 2 at London, 2:00pm
Game 3 – Tues. April 4 at Owen Sound, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thurs. April 6 at Owen Sound, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Fri. April 7 at London, 7:00pm*
Game 6 – Sun. April 9 at Owen Sound, 7:00pm*
Game 7 – Tues. April 11 at London, 7:00pm*

SERIES C – (3) Sarnia Sting vs. (6) Guelph Storm
Game 1 – Fri. March 31 at Sarnia, 7:05pm
Game 2 – Sun. April 2 at Sarnia, 2:05pm
Game 3 – Tues. April 4 at Guelph, 7:00pm
Game 4 – Thurs, April 6 at Guelph, 7:00pm
Game 5 – Fri. April 7 at Sarnia, 7:05pm*
Game 6 – Sun. April 9 at Guelph, 2:00pm*
Game 7 – Tues. April 11 at Sarnia, 7:05pm*

SERIES D – (4) Saginaw Spirit vs. (5) Flint Firebirds
Game 1 – Thurs. March 30 at Saginaw, 7:05pm
Game 2 – Fri. March 31 at Saginaw, 7:05pm
Game 3 – Mon. April 3 at Flint, 7:05pm
Game 4 – Wed. April 5 at Flint, 7:05pm
Game 5 – Fri. April 7 at Saginaw, 7:05pm*
Game 6 – Sat. April 8 at Flint, 7:05pm*
Game 7 – Mon. April 10 at Saginaw, 7:05pm*

*- if necessary


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. Follow the OHL online at ontariohockeyleague.com.

OHL DEVELOPMENT COMBINE PRESENTED BY DAIRY FARMERS OF ONTARIO TO BE HELD APRIL 15-16

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that the 2023 OHL Development Combine presented by Dairy Farmers of Ontario will be held Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16 at the Tribute Communities Centre in Oshawa.

The annual event provides players eligible for the 2023 OHL Priority Selection an opportunity to put their skills on display in both on and off-ice environments before a gathering of OHL scouts and general managers. The Combine will feature 76 prospects, including 36 forwards, 24 defencemen and 16 goaltenders.

“We’re very excited to partner with Dairy Farmers of Ontario on an event that provides prospective players the opportunity to enhance their own personal development,” said Brodie Barrick, the OHL’s Director of Player Recruitment and Player Services. “The blend of both skill testing and competitive games gives players a platform to showcase their abilities in advance of the Priority Selection.”

Saturday’s itinerary will see players participate in on and off-ice testing through a series of exercises. Results will be provided to OHL member teams ahead of the OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore to be held a week later on Friday, April 21 (Rounds 1-3) and Saturday, April 22 (Rounds 4-15).

Players will compete in 5-on-5 and 3-on-3 play throughout Sunday, being joined behind the bench by OHL member team personnel as special guest coaches.

“Our MilkUP brand celebrates, recognizes and provides young athletes opportunities to flourish both on and off the ice. MilkUP also provides meaningful, measurable and lasting impacts on young people through sports and community activities, while highlighting the benefits of milk in a healthy, active lifestyle,” said Cheryl Smith, Chief Executive Officer of DFO. “Organizations, such as the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), do great work supporting their athletes and partnering with them allows us to support them, too. On behalf of DFO and Ontario’s 3,400 dairy producers, their families and staff, we wish all the hockey players the best as they demonstrate their talents during the 2023 OHL Development Combine.”

Teams will compete for the OHL Combine Cup championship, with the winner achieving supremacy by way of a point system recognizing both individual performance in on and off-ice testing, as well as team performance in Sunday’s game action.

Team Subban reigned supreme at last year’s Combine with a roster that included current OHL players in David Bedkowski (Oshawa Generals), Callum Cheynowski (Hamilton Bulldogs), Caden Kelly (Ottawa 67’s), Carter Lowe (Barrie Colts), Hunter McKenzie (Guelph Storm) and Kaden Pitre (Flint Firebirds).

The 2023 event marks the 14th year that the OHL has hosted a skills development day for players and goaltenders in advance of the OHL Priority Selection.

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.

About Dairy Farmers of Ontario

Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) is the marketing board for the largest sector of Ontario agriculture. Our mission is to provide leadership and excellence in the production and marketing of Canadian milk for a dynamic, profitable growing dairy industry. Ontario’s 3,287 dairy farmers, their families and employees are proud to produce high-quality milk for Canadians. For more information, visit www.milk.org.

OHL, POWER EDGE PRO HOCKEY PARTNER TO LAUNCH CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE LOCATIONS ACROSS ONTARIO

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the launch of Centre of Excellence locations across Ontario in partnership with Power Edge Pro Hockey (PEP).

The OHL/PEP Centre of Excellence is a development initiative creating a premier and unparalleled in-season development experience for Minor Hockey players in Ontario to complement the development programs provided by their club team and minor hockey association.

Both the OHL and PEP are excited to introduce a progressive and engaging performance proven program that creates an opportunity for players to be exposed to OHL quality teaching methods and new skill acquisition through PEP’s Reactive Countering & Reactive Linear Crossover trainings.

The Ontario Hockey League is regarded as one of the top player development leagues in the world and continues to be a leading supplier of talent to both the National Hockey League and Canada’s National Teams at all levels, as well as U SPORTS (Canadian University) hockey.

PEP Hockey is the leading player development program in the world.  PEP delivers a patented, unmatched elite training experience with a consummate record of developing players to the NHL and OHL.

PEP’s innovative training has been adopted by the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks, Nashville Predators, Detroit Red Wings, Minnesota Wild, Columbus Blue Jackets and numerous OHL teams.

Launching in September 2023, the Centre of Excellence locations will be offered in Barrie, Belleville, Kitchener, London, North Bay, Oakville, Oshawa, Ottawa, Sault Ste. Marie, St. Catharines, Thunder Bay, and Toronto. Additional locations will be announced for year two.

The program will be available for the U10-U18 age groups with all players required to be a registered participant in a Hockey Canada Program, entering the 2023-24 season.

Applications can be submitted up until April 30th for acceptance to the OHL/PEP Centre of Excellence programs.

Learn more, and apply today at poweredgepro.com/ohl-centre-of-excellence/


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 TO HOST 2ND ANNUAL OFFICIATING PROSPECT DEVELOPMENT COMBINE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League is pleased to announce that it will be hosting its 2nd Annual Officiating Prospect Development Combine that will take place from June 8-10 at the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre in Belleville, Ont.

The OHL received over 200 applications to participate in last year’s inaugural event and selected 72 officials to participate. A total of 10 women, six officials from the United States and four new recruits to officiating were among those selected. A total of 20 participants from last year’s Prospect Development Combine were then selected to attend the OHL Officiating Training Camp in August, and 17 of those officials were given the opportunity to officiate in the OHL for the 2022-23 season.

“I definitely feel like I’ll be going into the upcoming season as a better official.” – Hillary Brennan, OHL referee

“…this was a well-run event and when I chatted with the officials, they seemed to really take value from it. I overheard many comments specifically about the level of professionalism associated with this event.” – Dan Hanoomansingh, Manager of Officiating, Hockey Canada

“…I learned many things I hope to bring into my games in the upcoming years.” – Jason Faist, OHL referee

“I got a lot out of the camp that will assist me in continuing to prgress as an official. I will certainly be encouraging officials to apply for future OHL Combines.” – Brandy Beecroft, official

“The experience was truly invaluable and I feel it was extremely beneficial for more and my officiating career. This was truly a first-class Combine.” – Braydon Munn, official

WATCH: 2022 OHL OFFICIATING PROSPECT DEVELOPMENT COMBINE RECAP

This year’s Combine will not only continue to identify top officiating prospects in Ontario and the United States, but will also serve to enhance the development of these officials as they progress through different levels of the game.

This event is once again open to current high-level hockey officials as well as individuals that have recently completed their playing careers and are looking for opportunities to remain in the game. No experience is necessary. Individuals that apply must be excellent skaters, in great physical condition, and have a keen interest and desire to officiate at a high level.

The Combine will be a significant opportunity for officials to demonstrate their officiating desires and abilities. Some participants attending this event will have the opportunity to be selected to attend the OHL Officiating Training Camp in August 2023, with the possibility of competing for a spot on the OHL Officiating Team.

With its close-working relationship with the Ontario Hockey Federation, Hockey Canada and the National Hockey League, the OHL is not only the top development league for players and coaches, but officials aspiring to reach the next level as well.

Interested individuals can register here. Registration will close on Friday, April 14. As there are limited spaces available for this event, applications will be reviewed by a selection committee and those chosen to participate in the Combine will be contacted via email by April 28. Once an individual has been notified that he or she has been selected, additional registration/payment information will be provided.

Investment:

The cost to attend the Combine is $495.00 + HST and will include the following:

  • On and off-ice evaluation by Jackie Jarrell, owner of Gold Performance Training and Testing Specialist for the NHL Exposure Combine
  • Minimum 6 hours of total ice time
  • Minimum 6 hours of high-level classroom sessions
  • Meals (lunch and dinner on Friday and Saturday)
  • Special group rate at the Fairfield Marriott (includes breakfast buffet) at individual’s expense (limited rooms available)
  • Exposure to key officiating individuals from various leagues (OHL, NHL, OHF, OHA)
  • Participation gift


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 ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for February including Luca Marrelli of the Oshawa Generals, Andrew Wycisk of the Niagara IceDogs, Matthew Andonovski of the Kitchener Rangers and Easton Wainwright of the Sarnia Sting.
 

East Division: Oshawa Generals blueliner Luca Marrelli is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Marrelli is achieving an overall average of 89 percent across three grade 12 university-level courses, with a 92 percent average in Human Development, a 78 percent average in Advanced Functions and a 96 percent average in Personal Fitness at Maxwell Heights Secondary School.

“Luca is described as a very personable and dedicated individual by his teachers, coaches and teammates,” said Generals academic advisor Tom Buchanan. “Luca also demonstrates a strong work ethic”.

The 17-year-old from Toronto, Ont. has recorded 28 points (5-23–28) in 57 games for the Generals this season. Marrelli was selected in the fifth round (81st overall) by Oshawa in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Mississauga Reps U16 program.
 

Central Division: Niagara IceDogs defenceman Andrew Wycisk is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Wycisk is currently achieving academic excellence in grade 12 level courses, including high grades in Advanced Functions, Physics, World Issues and Fitness at Governor Simcoe Secondary School.

“Andrew is an excellent student and is currently holding an average in the high 80’s,” said IceDogs academic advisor Tim Tope. “Andrew is well respected by both staff and students and is sure to lead the IceDogs for years to come.”

The 17-year-old from Etobicoke, Ont. has played 18 games this season, recording two assists for the IceDogs. The 5-foot-9, 150Ib. blueliner was selected in the third round (45th overall) by Niagara in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Vaughan Kings U16 program.
 

Midwest Division: Kitchener Rangers blueliner Matthew Andonovski is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Andonovski is achieving high grades in grade 12 courses, including an ‘A’ average throughout his demanding schedule that includes Data Management, Biology, International Business, Leadership and Large Group Physical Education at Victus Academy. Andonovski is excited at the prospect of attending university next year to study Sports Management and Business.

“A physical, puck moving defenceman with a knack for leading others on the ice and in the classroom, coaches and teachers alike describe Matthew as a passionate young man, always willing to give his best effort,” said Rangers academic advisor Dave Tennant.

The 17-year-old from Markham, Ont. has played 55 games this season, recording 14 assists and a plus/minus rating of plus-16 for the Rangers. The 6-foot-2, 200Ib. defenceman was selected in the fourth round (62nd overall) by Kitchener in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Mississauga Reps U16 program.
 

West Division: Sarnia Sting forward Easton Wainwright is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Wainwright completed a very successful first semester at Northern Collegiate in Sarnia with an overall average of 90 percent in Advanced Functions, Biology, and Fitness. He is now currently taking Kinesiology, English, Nutrition and Health.

“Easton exhibits a high level of diligence in his studies, a commitment to his daily attendance, and is a frequent contributor to his classes,” said Sting academic advisor Todd Whitlock. “He is an great example of a student-athlete, and positive role model for his peers.”

The 18-year-old from Mount Hope, Ont. has played 57 games this season, recording 10 goals, 14 assists and 24 points for the Sting. The 5-foot-9, 172Ib. centreman was selected in the ninth round (172nd overall) by Sarnia in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs U16 program.
 

2022-23 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

East Division:
February – Luca Marrelli (Oshawa Generals)
January – Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)
December – Callum Cheynowski (Hamilton Bulldogs)
November – James Guo (Peterborough Petes)
October – Brad Gardiner (Ottawa 67’s)

Central Division:
February – Andrew Wycisk (Niagara IceDogs)
January – Wyatt Kennedy (North Bay Battalion)
December – Grayson Tiller (Barrie Colts)
November – Finn Harding (Mississauga Steelheads)
October – Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)

Midwest Division:
February – Matthew Andonovski (Kitchener Rangers)
January – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm)
December – Nathan Sauder (Erie Otters)
November – Braedyn Rogers (Owen Sound Attack)
October – Denver Barkey (London Knights)

West Division:
February – Easton Wainwright (Sarnia Sting)
January – Joey Willis (Saginaw Spirit)
December – Tristan Bertucci (Flint Firebirds)
November – Bronson Ride (Windsor Spitfires)
October – Alex Kostov (Soo Greyhounds)

The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavours.

A total of 349 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2021-22 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.5 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totalled more than $25 million.

A total of 217 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2022-23 season.


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 ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Top OHL Performers of the Month for regular season games played in February 2023, including Windsor Spitfires forward Matthew Maggio, Barrie Colts defenceman Brandt Clarke, Ottawa 67’s goaltender Collin MacKenzie and Sudbury Wolves rookie netminder Nate Krawchuk.

OHL Player of the Month – Matthew Maggio (Windsor Spitfires):
New York Islanders prospect Matthew Maggio of the Windsor Spitfires is the OHL Player of the Month for February, producing 11 goals, 15 assists and 26 points in 12 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-12. Maggio guided his team to a February mark of 9-2-1-0, registering points in nine of his 12 outings, seven of those yielding multiple points. The 6-foot, 185 Ib. forward started the month with back-to-back two-goal, three-point outings in home victories over Sault Ste. Marie and Hamilton. He then logged a goal and four assists (1-4–5) on Feb. 5th as the Spitfires defeated the Owen Sound Attack 8-1.Maggio’s scoring ways continued on Feb. 16th with another multi-point showing, recording a goal and three helpers (1-3–4) in a 6-5 overtime win over the Flint Firebirds.He closed out the month with another four-point night on Feb. 26th with a pair of goals and assists (2-2–4) to earn first star honours while recording his 200th career point as the Spitfires defeated the Kingston Frontenacs in an 8-4 road win.

A 20-year-old from nearby Tecumseh, Ont., Maggio leads the OHL with 46 goals and 94 points (46–48-94) on the season. Of Maggio’s 46 goals, just three have come on the power play. He helped the Spitfires win a Western Conference title last spring, following-up a 38-goal regular season with 17 points (7-10–17) in 25 playoff contests before being selected by the New York Islanders in the fifth round (142nd overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft. Maggio was originally Ottawa’s fifth round (86th overall) pick in the 2018 OHL Priority Selection from the Sun County Panthers U16 program.

OHL Defenceman of the Month – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts):
Los Angeles Kings prospect Brandt Clarke of the Barrie Colts is the OHL Defenceman of the Month for the second straight month, recording two goals, 17 assists and 19 points in 13 games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-12. Clarke helped the Colts play to a February record of 9-2-2-0, finishing the month with four consecutive victories. His month included points in 10 of his 13 contests, including eight multi-point showings. Clarke recorded a pair of assists, including the overtime winner on Feb. 5th as the Colts defeated the Sudbury Wolves 2-1. The 6-foot-2, 188lb. blueliner went on to register three assists on Feb. 20th against Kingston, as the Colts blanked the Frontenacs 4-0. Clarke made Colts franchise history to close out the month, surpassing Luch Nasato as the club’s all-time top-scoring defenceman with a goal and an assist in a 9-4 win over the Niagara IceDogs on Feb. 26th. He wrapped up February on a seven-game point streak. This mark’s Clarke’s third career OHL Defenceman of the Month honour after he was previously recognized in January.

A 20-year-old from Nepean, Ont., Clarke has produced career totals that include 29 goals, 107 assists and a franchise record 136 points by a blueliner in 134 regular season games. Now in his third season with the Colts, Clarke was voted to the League’s second all-star team in 2021-22, recording 59 points (11-48–59) in 55 games. The blueliner was Barrie’s first round (4th overall) pick in the 2019 OHL Priority Selection from the Don Mills Flyers U16 program. He was a first round (8th overall) pick of the Los Angeles Kings in the 2021 NHL Draft, and signed a three-year entry level NHL contract with the club on Aug. 10, 2021. He played in nine games with Los Angeles earlier this season, recording two assists in the process, and was a Canadian World Junior gold medalist this past January.

OHL Goaltender of the Month – Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s):
Draft-eligible Ottawa 67’s netminder Collin MacKenzie is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for February, playing to a record of 4-0-1-0 with a 1.45 goals-against average and .950 save percentage over six appearances. MacKenzie opened the month of February by stopping 30 of 31 shots on the road in Saginaw as the 67’s defeated the Spirit 5-1 on Feb. 4th. MacKenzie entered a game on Feb. 9th against the Gatineau Olympiques, stopping all six shots he faced before turning aside 14 of 15 in a win over the Niagara IceDogs on Feb. 10th. Other highlights in February included a 40-save, first star performance on Feb. 16th in Peterborough as the 67’s defeated the Petes 3-2. MacKenzie helped the 67’s defeat the West Division-leading Windsor Spitfires on Feb. 24th, making 28 saves in a 6-1 outcome. He becomes the first 67’s netminder to earn OHL Goaltender of the Month honours since Cedrick Andree, who last did so in January 2019.

An 18-year-old from Elora, Ont., MacKenzie is 14-2-3-0 on the season with a 1.90 goals-against average, .928 save percentage and one shutout over 22 games. MacKenzie won his first 10 consecutive OHL decisions after going 4-0-0-0 in an abbreviated campaign with Ottawa last season. He penciled himself into the OHL record books on Oct. 21st in Sault Ste. Marie, making 15 consecutive shootout saves in a 2-1 victory over the Greyhounds. Ottawa’s eighth round (160th overall) pick in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection, MacKenzie is a graduate of the Waterloo Wolves U16 and U18 programs.

OHL Rookie of the Month –Nate Krawchuk (Sudbury Wolves):
Sudbury Wolves netminder Nate Krawchuk is the OHL Rookie of the Month for February, playing to a 5-1-1-0 record with a 2.50 goals-against average and .912 save percentage with one shutout. Krawchuk made 197 saves in February, winning five of his eight outings for the Wolves. He stopped all 21 shots that came his way on Feb. 3rd to earn his first OHL career shutout as the Wolves blanked the Mississauga Steelheads 4-0. He turned aside 28 of the 30 shots he faced on Feb. 5th to earn first star honours as the Wolves came up short in overtime against the Barrie Colts. Krawchuk closed out February with back-to-back road wins, making 26 saves in a 5-2 triumph over the Niagara IceDogs on Feb. 24th before blocking 38 of the 42 shots he faced in a 5-4 win over the Erie Otters on Feb. 25th.

A 17-year-old from Thunder Bay, Ont., Krawchuk owns a 10-6-1-0 record with a 3.13 goals-against average and .897 save percentage in his first 20 games with the Wolves this season. The 6-foot-1, 153Ib. netminder was Sudbury’s first round (3rd overall) pick in the 2022 OHL Under-18 Priority Selection from the Thunder Bay Kings U18 program.

2022-23 OHL Performers of the Month:

Player of the Month:
February – Matthew Maggio (Windsor Spitfires)
January – Colby Barlow (Owen Sound Attack)
December – Francesco Pinelli (Kitchener Rangers)
November – Sean McGurn (London Knights)
October – Brennan Othmann (Flint Firebirds)

Defenceman of the Month:
February – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts)
January – Brandt Clarke (Barrie Colts)
December – Pavel Mintyukov (Saginaw Spirit)
November – Pavel Mintyukov (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Pavel Mintyukov (Saginaw Spirit)

Goaltender of the Month:
February – Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
January – Domenic DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion)
December – Anson Thornton (Barrie Colts)
November – Tristan Lennox (Saginaw Spirit)
October – Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes)

Rookie of the Month:
February – Nate Krawchuk (Sudbury Wolves)
January – Liam Greentree (Windsor Spitfires)
December – Zayne Parekh (Saginaw Spirit)
November – Oliver Bonk (London Knights)
October – Michael Misa (Saginaw Spirit)


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 ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for January including Jett Luchanko of the Guelph Storm, Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs, Joey Willis of the Saginaw Spirit and Wyatt Kennedy of the North Bay Battalion.

East Division: Kingston Frontenacs rookie netminder Mason Vaccari is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

Vaccari is achieving an overall average of 94 percent across three university-level courses, with a 92 percent average in Financial Accounting and a 95 percent average in both Canadian Law and Advanced Functions at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School.

“Mason is as laser focused a student as he is a goalie,” said Frontenacs academic advisor Kristi LeSarge. His math teacher, Joanne Van Nest shared that “Mason has maintained his 95% in her Advanced Functions course, which is amazing considering his demanding schedule and the challenging nature of the Advanced Functions material. He is a conscientious, dedicated, mature student and an all-around nice, humble person.”

The 17-year-old from Mississauga, Ont. has played 17 games this season, recording a 3.08 goals-against-average and .908 save percentage for the Fronts. In the 2021-2022 season, Vaccari played 16 games for the OJHL’s Coburg Cougars, accumulating nine wins. The 5-foot-9, 178lb. goaltender was Kingston’s fourth round (61st overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection.

Central Division: North Bay Battalion defenceman Wyatt Kennedy is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

Kennedy is currently achieving academic excellence in grade 12 level courses, including high grades in Equity and Social Justice, Business Leadership and Careers at Chippewa Secondary School.

“Wyatt is described by his teachers as a kind, polite and courteous leader, who is an equally strong student,” said Battalion academic advisor Stephanie Silverthorn. “He is respected by staff, students, and his teammates. Wyatt’s approach to learning is positive and his work habits are strong. He regularly shows initiative, is conscientious and displays a principled and open-minded approach within the classroom while managing his time between the ice and school.”

The 17-year-old from Vars, Ont. has played 46 games this season, recording two goals, four assists and six points for the Battalion. The 6-foot-5, 186Ib. blueliner was selected in the third round (50th overall) by North Bay in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection.

Midwest Division: Guelph Storm rookie forward Jett Luchanko is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

Luchanko is achieving an 85 percent average in grade 11 university-level Physics, Mathematics and English at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic High School.

“Jett’s ability to effectively balance the demands of his academic course load with his on-ice commitments is a direct reflection of his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence,” said Storm academic advisor Coleen Driscoll. “He is to be commended for his conscientious and dedicated approach to his studies.”

The 16-year-old from London, Ont. has played 33 games this season, recording three goals, six assists  and nine points for the Storm. The 5-foot-10, 165Ib. right-winger was selected in the first round (12th overall) by Guelph in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the London Jr. Knights U16 program.

West Division: Saginaw Spirit rookie forward Joey Willis is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for January.

Willis is achieving an overall first semester average of 87 percent, with an 88 percent average in grade 12 English, 83 percent average in Advanced Placement Environmental Science, 88 percent average in Marketing, 81 percent average in Advanced Placement Statistics and a 93 percent average in Work Based Learning at Heritage High School.

“Joey is a very hard working student with an outstanding work ethic,” said Saginaw’s academic advisor Pamela Moretuzzo. “He is scholastically gifted and very dedicated to his studies. Joey is a strong-willed and driven individual. He commits a great deal of time in and out of school to be successful in his academics, as he is currently taking two Advanced Placements courses and often attends additional study sessions outside of his class hours to improve his understanding of the course material.  He is a well-rounded, conscientious individual.”

“Joey is also committed to improving his hockey skills as a member of the Saginaw Spirit team. As a rookie, he is currently second in scoring for first year players,” Moretuzzo continued. “Joey welcomes hockey, academic, and personal challenges and works diligently to accomplish his goals. He has outstanding sportsmanship and a positive attitude both on and off of the ice.”

The 17-year-old from Elmhurst, Ill. has played 45 games this season, recording nine goals, 17 assists and 26 points for the Spirit. The 5-foot-10, 170Ib. centreman was selected in the fourth round (79th overall) by Saginaw in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection.

2022-23 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

East Division:
January – Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)
December – Callum Cheynowski (Hamilton Bulldogs)
November – James Guo (Peterborough Petes)
October – Brad Gardiner (Ottawa 67’s)

Central Division:
January – Wyatt Kennedy (North Bay Battalion)
December – Grayson Tiller (Barrie Colts)
November – Finn Harding (Mississauga Steelheads)
October – Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)

Midwest Division:
January – Jett Luchanko (Guelph Storm)
December – Nathan Sauder (Erie Otters)
November – Braedyn Rogers (Owen Sound Attack)
October – Denver Barkey (London Knights)

West Division:
January – Joey Willis (Saginaw Spirit)
December – Tristan Bertucci (Flint Firebirds)
November – Bronson Ride (Windsor Spitfires)
October – Alex Kostov (Soo Greyhounds)

The OHL continues to produce student-athletes that move on to both professional and U SPORTS men’s hockey endeavors.

A total of 349 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2021-22 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.5 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totaled more than $25 million.

A total of 217 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2022-23 season.

Click here for more information about ‘OHL Players First’ programs.


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.