The question of whether a new arena should be built at Limeridge Mall, or downtown as part of a larger entertainment venue, was back in front of Hamilton politicians on Wednesday.
Hamilton’s general issues committee has heard from Hamilton Bulldogs owner Michael Andlauer, who says he would pay up to $30 million toward the construction of a mountain arena for his Ontario Hockey League (OHL) team.
Full story from Global News.
The Canadian Hockey League today announced the second edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week for the 2019-20 season based on individual performances from September 23-29.
The forward ranks are headlined by London Knights centre Connor McMichael, who posted five goals and two assists for seven points to help guide his club to back-to-back victories over the Erie Otters and Hamilton Bulldogs. For his efforts, the Washington Capitals first-round pick was recognized as the OHL On the Run Player of the Week.
Drawing even with McMichael at seven points is Rimouski Oceanic left-wing Alexis Lafreniere, a projected top selection for the upcoming 2020 NHL Draft who picked up two goals and five assists as his squad downed the Sherbrooke Phoenix and Drummondville Voltigeurs to push their season-opening record to 3-0-0-1 for top spot in the QMJHL’s East Division.
Rounding out the forward ranks is Lethbridge Hurricanes centre Dylan Cozens who made an immediate impact upon returning from NHL training camp with the Buffalo Sabres to notch three goals and three assists as the Hurricanes came away with a split against the Red Deer Rebels and Edmonton Oil Kings. Cozens’ six-point production also helped him earn WHL On the Run Player of the Week honours.
On the back end, the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week includes Saginaw Spirit first-year import blue-liner Ilya Solovyov, who amassed eight points across three games counting one goal and seven assists. That stretch included a five-point night against the Sarnia Sting in which Solovyov was later recognized as the CHL Player of the Night.
Sharing the blue line is Vancouver Giants defenceman Bowen Byram, who returned to the club this week after auditioning with the Colorado Avalanche. The 18-year-old rearguard evidently needed little time to ready for game action wrapping up the week with five points – all coming as assists – in a trio of games.
Between the pipes, Tri-City Americans netminder Beck Warm was nearly unbeatable across two appearances as he came away with two victories while turning aside a combined 69 of 70 shots. He finished the week with a 0.50 goals-against-average and .986 save percentage with a top performance that featured a 38-save shutout against the Spokane Chiefs.
Toronto, Ont. – Now that #OHLOpeningWeek is in the books and we’re all warmed up, here’s another jam-packed edition of the OHL This Week. Get the latest details on news from across the league.
67’s TAKE TOP SPOT IN KIA CHL TOP 10 RANKINGS:
The Ottawa 67’s are the new number one team in the Kia CHL Top 10 Rankings after a pair of road wins last weekend. They’re joined by the seventh-ranked Barrie Colts, eight-ranked Saginaw Spirit and ninth-ranked London Knights while the Kitchener Rangers earned an honourable mention.
FULL RANKINGS
KIA CHL TOP 10 SPOTLIGHT: OTTAWA 67’s:
Following a perfect 2-0 start to the season, the Ottawa 67’s shift to No. 1 in this week’s Kia CHL Top-10 Rankings. The fourth ranked team in the pre-season list pieced together back-to-back shootout victories Friday night in an OHL championship rematch against the Guelph Storm, and Saturday against the always competitive Owen Sound Attack to grab an early lead atop the OHL’s East Division just one season removed from finishing first overall with a franchise record 106 points.
READ MORE
PETES’ DER-ARGUCHINTSEV NAMED OHL ‘ON THE RUN’ PLAYER OF THE WEEK:
Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Semyon Der-Arguchintsev of the Peterborough Petes is the OHL ‘On the Run’ Player of the Week with seven assists over two games. Often referred to as ‘SDA’, the Russian-born centreman picked up three assists in Peterborough’s season-opening win in London and added another four in a 9-6 loss to the Windsor Spitfires.
READ MORE
DER-ARGUCHINTSEV AND DRYSDALE NAMED TO VAUGHN CHL TEAM OF THE WEEK:
Peterborough Petes forward Semyon Der-Arguchintsev and Erie Otters defenceman Jamie Drysdale have been named to the inaugural edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week. Learn all about their solid performances along with who else led the CHL out of the gate in 2019-20.
READ MORE
FIRST EDITION OF WAWANESA OHL PLAYS OF THE WEEK:
The first edition of the Wawanesa OHL Plays of the Week for the 2019-20 season feature a collection of the league’s Top-5 goals during the week ending September 22nd. Catch top plays from Barrie’s Luke Bignell, Sudbury’s Quinton Byfield, Kitchener’s Liam Hawel, Ottawa’s Cedrick Andree and Barrie’s Matej Pekar.
WATCH
SCINTILLATING DEBUT EDITION OF VAUGHN SAVES OF THE WEEK:
We start the season with a scintillating debut edition of #VaughnSaves. Featured this week are a pair of big saves from Cedrick Andree of the Ottawa 67’s and singles from Jet Greaves of the Barrie Colts, Jacob Ingham of the Kitchener Rangers, Jordan Kooy of the London Knights and Mack Guzda of the Owen Sound Attack.
WATCH
COLTS’ PEKAR REPRESENTS OHL IN FIRST EDITION OF CHL SHOWDOWN:
Barrie Colts forward Matej Pekar is the OHL’s representative in the first edition of CHL Showdown, a weekly contest that has fans from coast-to-coast vote on the best play in the Canadian Hockey League. The Buffalo Sabres prospect helped the Colts start the season with a 2-0 record, scoring five times in the opening week of the season.
VOTE FOR PEKAR
OHL NEWS – RADIO EDITION FEATURING SOO GREYHOUNDS HEAD COACH JOHN DEAN:
OHL News – Radio Edition with host Terry Doyle and presented by Bauer features Soo Greyhounds head coach John Dean. He revisits last weekend’s victories over the Flint Firebirds and North Bay Battalion on home ice. Dean discusses the Hounds’ strong start and commitment to long-term development within the organization. He sheds light on new opportunities for a number of returning Greyhounds in light of the departure of several long-time veterans.
LISTEN
OHL WEEKEND NOTEBOOK – SEPTEMBER 23, 2019:
The OHL Weekend Notebook recaps the weekend that was with news, information and interesting facts from both on and off the ice. Here are 10 of the leading stories from #OHLOpeningWeek.
READ MORE
DELLANDREA RETURNING TO FIREBIRDS:
The Dallas Stars announced Wednesday that 2018 first round pick Ty Dellandrea will return to the Flint Firebirds for the 2019-20 season. Dellandrea appeared in three pre-season games with the Stars and joins the 1-1 Firebirds as they host their home opener on Saturday night against the Niagara IceDogs before taking on the Sarnia Sting on Sunday afternoon.
READ MORE
SUZUKI RETURNING TO COLTS:
The Carolina Hurricanes have returned 2019 first round pick Ryan Suzuki to the Barrie Colts for the 2019-20 season. The 18-year-old London, Ont. native comes off a 75-point (25-50–75) season in 2018-19 and now enters his third OHL campaign. The former first overall pick in the 2017 OHL Priority Selection has represented Canada at a number of international events, winning gold at the 2018 Hlinka Gretzky Cup and silver at the 2017 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.
READ MORE
STORM RAISE 2019 OHL CHAMPIONSHIP BANNER:
The Guelph Storm celebrated their historic playoff run last spring, raising a 2019 OHL Championship banner to the rafters at the Sleeman Centre. Storm governor Rick Gaetz was on hand prior to puckdrop to introduce a championship montage shown on the Sleeman Centre’s video board, thanking players, coaches and fans for their contributions to the franchise’s fourth OHL title.
WATCH
NHL TRAINING CAMP TRACKER:
Of the 144 OHL players to attend NHL Training Camps this past month, several big names have remained with NHL clubs into the pre-season including Mississauga’s Thomas Harley (Dallas), Soo’s Barrett Hayton (Arizona) and Saginaw’s Bode Wilde (NY Islanders) among others.
FULL LIST
16 OHL NEWCOMERS SCORE FIRST CAREER GOALS:
As we do every year, ontariohockeyleague.com documents every player’s first goal and #OHLOpeningWeek is always full of them. A total of 16 OHL newcomers lit the lamp for the first time. Watch those milestone markers!
WATCH
STEELHEADS’ HARLEY SIGNS WITH STARS:
Mississauga Steelheads defenceman Thomas Harley has signed a three-year entry-level NHL contract with the Dallas Stars. The 18-year-old from Syracuse, NY was a first round pick by the club this past summer after recording 58 points (11-47–58) in 68 games with the Steelheads last season. The 6-foot-3, 180Ib blueliner has remained with the Stars throughout the NHL pre-season.
READ MORE
CANUCKS PROSPECT ARTURS SILOVS COMMITS TO COLTS:
The Barrie Colts have received a commitment from Vancouver Canucks prospect Arturs Silovs who they selected with the 11th overall pick of the 2019 CHL Import Draft. The Latvian netminder was selected by the Vancouver Canucks in the sixth round of the 2019 NHL Draft and recently attended Training Camp with the NHL club. The 18-year-old had a solid OHL debut on Saturday night, turning aside 37 of the 39 shots he faced to earn second star honours in a 6-2 win over the London Knights in Barrie’s home opener.
READ MORE
RYAN HUMPHREY COMMITS TO BULLDOGS:
The Hamilton Bulldogs have received an OHL commitment from 2019 eighth round selection Ryan Humphrey. The 16-year-old from Northville, Mich. competed in the 2019 OHL Cup Powered by Under Armour, leading TPH Hockey in scoring with seven points (4-3–7) over four contests. He spent the 2018-19 season with the Honeybaked U16 program, registering 24 goals, 40 assists and 66 points across 75 games playing at both the Midget and HPHL U16 levels.
READ MORE
ATTACK NAME AIDAN DUDAS CAPTAIN:
The Owen Sound Attack have named Los Angeles Kings prospect Aidan Dudas captain. The fourth-year forward and former first round pick by the club is the 24th captain in Attack franchise history, being joined by alternates Brady Lyle, Mark Woolley, Carter Robertson and Matthew Philip. Dudas led the Attack with 62 points (26-36–62) over 68 games in 2018-19.
READ MORE
CHENIER TO CAPTAIN BATTALION:
Fourth-year forward Brad Chenier has been named captain of the North Bay Battalion. Joining him as alternates are forwards Matthew Struthers, Mason Primeau and Luke Moncada. The 20-year-old Hanmer, Ont. native comes off a 30-goal, 65-point campaign in 2018-19. He was North Bay’s fourth round pick in the 2015 OHL Priority Selection.
READ MORE
FRONTENACS APPOINT JAKOB BRAHANEY CAPTAIN:
Overage defenceman Jakob Brahaney has been named captain of the 2019-20 Kingston Frontenacs. The 20-year-old Campbellford, Ont. native enters his fifth OHL season with the Fronts after registering 23 points (5-18–23) over 66 games in 2018-19. The 6-foot-1, 192Ib. defenceman has appeared in 202 career regular season games, recording 58 points (11-47–58) after being a second round pick by the Fronts in the 2015 OHL Priority Selection.
READ MORE
DAMIANI, MEIRELES NAMED RANGERS CO-CAPTAINS:
The Kitchener Rangers have identified two veteran leaders to wear the ‘C’ in 2019-20, naming Riley Damiani and Greg Meireles co-captains. Damiani heads into his fourth season as a Ranger, coming off career-highs in goals (30), assists (55) and points (85) in 2018-19. The Dallas Stars prospect is joined by Florida Panthers 2019 NHL Draft pick Greg Meireles who came just three points shy of the 100-point mark last season.
READ MORE
OTTERS NAME JACK DUFF CAPTAIN:
The Erie Otters have appointed third-year defenceman Jack Duff as the 13th full-time captain in franchise history. The 6-foot-2, 221Ib blueliner served as an alternate captain last season, recording 21 points (4-17–21) over 66 games. He’ll be accompanied by alternate captains Chad Yetman, Hayden Fowler and Jamie Drysdale. Duff was Erie’s third round pick in the 2016 OHL Priority Selection.
READ MORE
EYE ON #OHLU18DRAFT: NATIONALS WIN 7TH ANNUAL TITANS MIDGET AAA TOURNAMENT:
The Toronto Nationals have done it again. After their Minor Midget team won the Titans Prospect Tournament two weeks ago, the Major Midget squad followed suit, defeating the Mississauga Rebels 4-3 on an overtime winner from London Knights prospect Owen Forester.
READ MORE
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY – MARKETING AND SERVICING COORDINATOR:
The Ontario Hockey League is seeking to hire an enthusiastic team player to contribute in the role of Marketing & Servicing Coordinator.
• FULL JOB DESCRIPTION
OHL LIVE PACKAGES NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2019-20:
OHL Live packages for the 2019-20 season are now available at reduced prices, including a brand-new monthly subscription option for fans. Don’t miss a game! Learn more about new savings today.
• FULL DETAILS
COMMUNITY CORNER:
Erie Events and Otters announce ten-year lease agreement: The Erie County Convention Center Authority and Ontario Hockey League’s Erie Otters jointly announced last week that both parties have agreed to and signed a ten-year lease extension that will keep the Erie Otters in Northwestern Pennsylvania.
READ MORE
Troops hand out magnet schedules Thursday: The North Bay Battalion will be handing out magnet schedules to fans at the Memorial Gardens on Thursday when they take on the Kitchener Rangers. On-air personalities will be handing out the schedules to fans as they depart from the game.
Firebirds plan fun-filled weekend at home: The Flint Firebirds open the home portion of their 2019-20 schedule on Saturday against the Niagara IceDogs and they have big things in store. In addition to handing out magnet schedules and having bounce houses for the kids, the Firebirds will be hosting their inaugural cornhole tournament before the game. The tournament will consist of two divisions, social and competitive, and teams consist of two players each. The grand prize winner for the competitive division wins $500. On Sunday, the Firebirds will hold a Hockey & Hot Rods Car Show prior to the team’s game against the Sarnia Sting at 2:00pm.
FIREBIRDS HOME OPENING WEEKEND DETAILS
Spirit host Opioid Awareness Night, United Way Night this weekend: Saturday and Sunday with special plans for each. The Spirit will host Opioid Awareness Night on Saturday against the Soo Greyhounds, raising awareness about a crucial issue that impacts families across the region. The Spirit will hold a ‘Medication Take Back’ Event where fans who turn in medications at the Dow Event Center will received a game voucher. The Spirit will host a post-game skate with fans following their Sunday contest against the Niagara IceDogs at 5:30pm. Sunday is United Way Night at the Dow Event Center.
Fronts host Fort Fright Night on Friday: The Kingston Frontenacs take on the division rival Ottawa 67’s Friday night in their annual Fort Fright Night event. Enjoy some spooky fun with the Fronts as they team up with Fort Henry to foreshadow what’s in store for this Halloween.
Attack launch Sticks for Soldiers initiative: The Owen Sound Attack are proud to announce a new program called Sticks for Soldiers. At two home games this season the Attack will ask those in attendance to bring a new or gently used hockey stick to donate to soldiers stationed overseas. The Attack will work with the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre’s Family Resource Centre in Meaford to collect the sticks at the games and have them packaged up to be sent overseas for the troops to use. This year’s collection games are this coming Saturday September 28th against the Guelph Storm and Saturday March 21st also against Guelph.
READ MORE AT ATTACKHOCKEY.COM
Bulldogs hand out trading cards on Saturday: The first 1000 fans into the building on Saturday to see the Hamilton Bulldogs take on the London Knights will get free Tim Horton’s Bulldogs trading cards. Great giveaways will be ongoing throughout the night including some exciting intermission activities.
Generals excited about Street Fest prior to home opener: The Oshawa Generals have big plans for Sunday afternoon, hosting a Street Fest prior to their home opener against the Kingston Frontenacs at 6:05pm. The Street Fest begins at 1:00pm and will host live entertainment and a beer garden. Guests will be able to have a tailgate-like experience before the big game. The Street Fest will include different activities like a hockey shoot-out game, a rock climbing wall and much more!
GENERALS STREET FEST DETAILS
ALUMNI NOTES:
Girardi announces retirement: London Knights graduate and former Memorial Cup champion Daniel Girardi has called it a career after 13 NHL seasons. The 35-year-old from Welland, Ont. made the announcement last week. He recorded 16 points (4-12–16) over 62 games with the Tampa Bay Lightning last season, capping an NHL career where he earned a reputation as a reliable two-way defenceman and capable shot blocker. Girardi spent 11 of his 13 campaigns with the New York Rangers after never being drafted to the NHL. He won a Memorial Cup with the Knights in 2005, putting the cherry on top of an OHL career that also included stops in Barrie and Guelph from 2000-05.
READ MORE AT SPORTSNET.CA
Knights graduate Hancock signs AHL contract with Tucson: London Knights graduate and former long-time Owen Sound Attack forward Kevin Hancock has signed a one-year AHL contract with the Tucson Roadrunners. The 21-year-old Hancock recorded a career-high 52 goals and 55 assists, totaling 107 points in 70 combined games with Owen Sound Attack and London last season. Hancock wrapped up an OHL career that spanned parts of five seasons with 120 goals, 171 assists and 291 points over 266 career regular season contests. The Roadrunners are the AHL affiliate of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes.
READ MORE
Sandin sticking around with Leafs: Soo Greyhounds graduate Rasmus Sandin remains with the Toronto Maple Leafs as the 2019-20 season draws closer. The 19-year-old from Uppsala, Sweden played 44 games with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies in 2018-19, recording 28 points (6-22–28) in the process before notching 10 assists over 13 postseason appearances. Toronto’s first round pick in the 2018 NHL Draft, Sandin spent the 2017-18 season with the Soo Greyhounds, helping guide them to a Western Conference title with 45 points (12-33–45) over 51 games. Chris Johnston has the full story.
READ MORE AT SPORTSNET.CA
Rieder looking for fresh start with Flames: Kitchener Rangers graduate Tobias Rieder is currently looking to make the most of a professional tryout offer with the Calgary Flames. The 26-year-old German winger recorded 11 assists over 67 games with the Edmonton Oilers last season and is looking for a new opportunity in southern Alberta. The former fourth round pick in the 2011 NHL Draft played three OHL seasons in Kitchener from 2010-13, registering 190 points (92-98–190) over 177 regular season contests. Postmedia’s Kristen Anderson has more on his story.
READ MORE AT CALGARYSUN.COM
McClement joins Penguins as pro scout: The Pittsburgh Penguins have named OHL graduate and long-time NHL forward Jay McClement as a pro scout in the organization. McClement, who hails from Kingston, Ont., retired following the end of the 2017-18 season after spending it playing in Switzerland. The 36-year-old played 12 NHL seasons between 2005-17, recording 244 points over 906 regular season contests. He played four seasons with the Brampton Battalion from 1999-2003, registering 182 points over 235 regular season contests.
Goodwin named to Seattle’s scouting staff: The NHL’s Seattle expansion franchise has named former OHL scoring great John Goodwin to its scouting staff. Goodwin, who racked up 389 points over three seasons with the Soo Greyhounds from 1978-81 and is also a past OHL head coach and assistant coach in Oshawa, North Bay and Kingston, will work under Seattle general manager and former Greyhounds teammate Ron Francis. Goodwin never played in the NHL, but enjoyed a six-year pro career in the AHL and IHL.
The 2019-20 Canadian Hockey League season is officially underway and early performances by six players from coast-to-coast have earned them a position in the debut edition of the Vaughn CHL Team of the Week.
This week’s forward group is headlined by Peterborough Petes centre Semyon Der-Arguchintsev, a Toronto Maple Leafs prospect who led the circuit with seven points, all coming as helpers, as he was dubbed the OHL On the Run Player of the Week. The Russian-born forward’s efforts guided the Petes to a 1-1-0-0 showing to begin the year.
Topping the charts in the WHL was Everett Silvertips captain Bryce Kindoff, who led all league scorers with six points counting three goals and three assists to help his club earn a split through the first two games of the new campaign. The veteran forward was recognized as the WHL On the Run Player of the Week.
Rounding out the forward ranks is Quebec Remparts right-wing Pierrick Dube, who potted a hat-trick Sunday to lead his club to a 6-4 victory over the Drummondville Voltigeurs. Across two contests, Dube has collected five points to come away as the Ultramar QMJHL Player of the Week.
The blue line begins with Erie Otters defenceman and 2020 NHL Draft prospect Jamie Drysdale, who matched a franchise record Saturday in recording five points counting one goal and four assists in an 8-5 triumph over the Hamilton Bulldogs. The high-water mark draws Drysdale even with Steve Montador and David Froh as the only Erie rearguards to have scored five points in one game. Drysdale’s five points lead all OHL defenders.
Partnering on the back end is 19-year-old defenceman Seth Bafaro of the Vancouver Giants whose five points including two goals and three assists lead all WHL blue-liners in the season’s early goings. Bafaro enters Friday’s contest against the Portland Winterhawks as his club’s leading scorer.
Between the pipes, the top performance came from Seattle Thunderbirds netminder Roddy Ross, whose lone appearance proved to be busy as he turned aside 50 shots in an eventual 4-1 decision versus the Kamloops Blazers, giving the Philadelphia Flyers sixth round pick a leading .980 save percentage.
Toronto, ON – OHL Opening Week is officially underway as the Niagara IceDogs defeated the visiting Sudbury Wolves by a score of 6-3 on Thursday night to kick-off the 2019-20 season.
With nine games on tonight’s Friday night schedule, the OHL is taking the opportunity to further outline the timelines surrounding the implementation of new expanded video replay measures coming into effect later this season.
New expanded video replay will not come into effect for any games until the necessary technological enhancements have been installed in each of the league’s 20 member team facilities.
The new measures will utilize enhanced technology including overhead cameras at both blue lines in addition to video tablets at the penalty box to provide on-ice officials with additional resources.
Once technology has been installed league-wide and new expanded video replay is in full effect, member teams will have the option of using a coach’s challenge for goaltender interference. Officials will also be automatically reviewing all major/match penalties assessed to validate the original call on the ice. In addition, the video tablets in the penalty box will be available to the on-ice officials to review potential offside plays. Current policy restricts such review to the video goal judge.
The Ontario Hockey League will provide more information at such time as all 20 of the league’s member team facilities have been equipped with the required technology enhancements.
#OHLOpeningWeek continues throughout the weekend with 16 games on the schedule through Sunday. Be sure to follow all of the league’s coverage at ontariohockeyleague.com or follow through social media on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Hockey season may be over for fans, but for the players, the quest for their dreams continues through the summer months and that goes for 46 Ontario Hockey League players who get the opportunity to strut their stuff at Canada’s National Under-17 Development Camp.
The list of OHL prospects invited include 5 goaltenders, 12 defencemen and 29 forwards. They will participate in the event along with along with 66 other prospects beginning July 19 and ending July 26 at the Markin MacPhail Centre in Calgary Alberta.
Here are the OHL prospects invited to participate:
| Name | S/C | Ht. | Wt. | Hometown | 2018-19 Team | OHL Team |
| Goaltenders | ||||||
| Matteo Drobac | L | 6’0″ | 179 | Oakville, Ont. | Halton (OMHA-SCTA) | Hamilton |
| Carter Garvie | L | 6’2″ | 150 | Owen Sound, Ont. | Grey-Bruce (OMHA-SCTA) | Saginaw |
| Benjamin Gaudreau | L | 6’1″ | 160 | Corbeil, Ont. | North Bay (GNML) | Sarnia |
| Patrick Leaver | L | 5’11” | 159 | Perth, Ont. | Smiths Falls (HEOMAAA) | Oshawa |
| Josh Rosenzweig | R | 6’0″ | 158 | Toronto, Ont. | Toronto Red Wings (GTHL) | Niagara |
| Defence | ||||||
| Paul Christopolous | R | 5’11” | 181 | Richmond Hill, Ont. | Don Mills (GTHL) | North Bay |
| Brandt Clarke | R | 6’2″ | 185 | Ottawa, Ont. | Don Mills (GTHL) | Barrie |
| Ethan Del Mastro | L | 6’3″ | 180 | Freelton, Ont. | Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) | Mississauga |
| Isaac Enright | R | 6’0″ | 170 | Cobden, Ont. | Pembroke (HEO) | Niagara |
| Connor Federkow | L | 5’9″ | 148 | St. Catharines, Ont. | Niagara North (OMHA-SCTA) | London |
| Braden Hache | L | 6’2″ | 185 | Newmarket, Ont. | York-Simcoe (OMHA-ETA) | Kingston |
| Jacob Holmes | L | 6’1″ | 176 | Alliston, Ont. | York Simcoe (OMHA-ETA) | Sault Ste Marie |
| Logan Mailloux | R | 6’3″ | 214 | Belle River, Ont. | Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) | London |
| Jack Matier | R | 6’2″ | 174 | Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. | Soo (NOHA) | Ottawa |
| Connor Punnett | L | 6’1″ | 177 | Powassan, Ont. | North Central (OMHA-ETA) | Saginaw |
| Ranvir Gill | R | 6’3″ | 190 | Ottawa, Ont. | Ottawa (HEO) | Ottawa |
| Ty Hollett | R | 6’2″ | 196 | Orleans, Ont. | Navan (HEO) | North Bay |
| Forwards | ||||||
| Liam Arnsby | R | 5’10” | 175 | Ajax, Ont. | Don Mills (GTHL) | North Bay |
| Jon-Randall Avon | L | 5’10” | 172 | Selwyn, Ont. | Peterborough (OMHA-ETA) | Peterborough |
| Jack Beck | L | 5’11” | 152 | Richmond Hill, Ont. | Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) | Ottawa |
| Josh Bloom | L | 6’1″ | 165 | Oakville, Ont. | Toronto Young Nationals (GTHL) | Saginaw |
| Ethan Burroughs | R | 5’10” | 165 | Georgetown, Ont. | Halton (OMHA-SCTA) | Owen Sound |
| Ryan Del Monte | R | 5’11” | 161 | Mississauga, Ont. | Toronto Young Nationals (GTHL) | Barrie |
| Deni Goure | R | 5’10” | 159 | Grande Pointe, Ont. | Chatham-Kent (MHAO) | Owen Sound |
| Brett Harrison | L | 6’1″ | 157 | London, Ont. | London (MHAO) | Oshawa |
| Thomas Johnston | L | 5’8″ | 154 | Oshawa, Ont. | Whitby (OMHA-ETA) | Ottawa |
| Wyatt Johnston | R | 5’11” | 152 | Toronto, Ont. | Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) | Windsor |
| Braeden Kressler | R | 5’9″ | 154 | Kitchener, Ont. | Mississauga Senators (GTHL) | Flint |
| Ethan Larmand | L | 5’11” | 160 | Midland, Ont. | North Central (OMHA-ETA) | Sudbury |
| Kaleb Lawrence | L | 6’5″ | 205 | Orleans, Ont. | Ontario Hockey Academy (HEO) | Owen Sound |
| Connor Lockhart | R | 5’9″ | 162 | Kanata, Ont. | Kanata (HEO) | Erie |
| Jacob Maillet | R | 6’0″ | 172 | Dundas, Ont. | Hamilton (OMHA-SCTA) | Guelph |
| Landon McCallum | R | 5’10” | 154 | Simcoe, Ont. | Brantford (MHAO) | Sudbury |
| Max McCue | L | 6’0″ | 154 | Sudbury, Ont. | Sudbury (NOHA) | London |
| Mason McTavish | L | 6’1″ | 195 | Pembroke, Ont. | Pembroke (HEO) | Peterborough |
| Daniel Michaud | L | 6’2″ | 176 | Belleville, Que. | Quinte (OMHA-ETA) | Oshawa |
| Justin O’Donnell | R | 6’1″ | 170 | Oakville, Ont. | Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) | Sarnia |
| Brennan Othmann | L | 6’0″ | 168 | Pickering, Ont. | Don Mills (GTHL) | Flint |
| Francesco Pinelli | L | 6’0″ | 177 | Stoney Creek, Ont. | Toronto Red Wings (GTHL) | Kitchener |
| Stuart Rolofs | L | 6’2″ | 187 | Carp, Ont. | Kanata (HEO) | London |
| Lawson Sherk | L | 6’1″ | 181 | Georgetown, Ont. | Halton (OMHA-SCTA) | Hamilton |
| Brendan Sirizzotti | R | 5’11” | 170 | Whitby, Ont. | Whitby (OMHA-ETA) | Ottawa |
| Chase Stillman | R | 5’10” | 160 | Peterborough, Ont. | Sudbury (NOHA) | Sudbury |
| Ryan Winterton | R | 6’0″ | 161 | Whitby, Ont. | Whitby (OMHA-ETA) | Hamilton |
| Shane Wright | R | 6’0″ | 180 | Burlington, Ont. | Don Mills (GTHL) | Kingston |
| Danny Zhilkin | L | 6’1″ | 185 | Mississauga, Ont. | Toronto Marlboros (GTHL) | Guelph |
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the First, Second, and Third Team All-Star selections for the 2018-19 campaign.
The OHL All-Star Teams were selected by the OHL’s General Managers upon completion of the regular season schedule.
Headlining the First Team is Red Tilson Trophy winner and Goaltender of the Year Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, a Buffalo Sabres prospect, who was a unanimous choice between-the-pipes after his record season with the Sudbury Wolves. Philadelphia Flyers prospect Morgan Frost of the Soo Greyhounds was voted a First Team centre for the second straight year after eclipsing the century mark for points once again. Dallas Stars prospect Jason Robertson of the Niagara IceDogs, who led the league in scoring with 117 points, finished first among left wingers, while Justin Brazeau of the North Bay Battalion, who led the league with 61 goals, was the top voted right winger. Edmonton Oilers prospect Evan Bouchard of the London Knights, who also won the Max Kaminsky Trophy for OHL Defenceman of the Year, was named a First Team All-Star for a second straight season. Joining him on the blue line is Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Mac Hollowell of the Greyhounds who led all defenders with 77 points. Behind the bench on the First Team is Coach of the Year Andre Tourigny who led the Ottawa 67’s to a franchise record 106 points.
A total of 11 teams were represented among the All-Star selections led by the OHL champion Guelph Storm and the Midwest Division winning London Knights each with four. All four of the Storm selections were on the Third Team including the entire forward trio of Nick Suzuki at centre, Isaac Ratcliffe at left wing, and Nate Schnarr at right wing, along with Dmitri Samorukov on defence. Joining Bouchard from the Knights are Second Team picks Kevin Hancock at centre and Adam Boqvist on defence, with coach Dale Hunter voted to the Third Team. The Greyhounds were the only club with multiple reps on the First Team, while the Wolves, 67’s, and Saginaw Spirit also had two representatives overall.
Voting was conducted in two stages with an initial ballot by Conference, followed by a final ballot that integrated the top selections from both the Eastern Conference and Western Conference results. Players were voted on by position and received five points for a first place vote, three for a second place vote, and one for a third place vote. In the case of defencemen, the top two selections received five points, the third and fourth selections received three points, and the fifth and sixth selections each received a single point.
2018-19 OHL All-Star Teams (voting points listed following team):
First Team All-Stars:
C – Morgan Frost (Soo Greyhounds) 77 – voted 1st team in 2017-18
LW – Jason Robertson (Niagara IceDogs) 84 – voted 3rd team in 2017-18
RW – Justin Brazeau (North Bay Battalion) 79
D – Evan Bouchard (London Knights) 73 – voted 1st team in 2017-18
D – Mac Hollowell (Soo Greyhounds) 68
G – Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (Sudbury Wolves) 95
Coach – Andre Tourigny (Ottawa 67’s) 71
Second Team All-Stars:
C – Kevin Hancock (London Knights) 44 – voted 3rd team LW in 2016-17
LW – Arthur Kaliyev (Hamilton Bulldogs) 40
RW – Tye Felhaber (Ottawa 67’s) 51
D – Bode Wilde (Saginaw Spirit) 59
D – Adam Boqvist (London Knights) 46
G – Kyle Keyser (Oshawa Generals) 44
Coach – Cory Stillman (Sudbury Wolves) 26
Third Team All-Stars:
C – Nick Suzuki (Guelph Storm) 38
LW – Isaac Ratcliffe (Guelph Storm) 25
RW – Nate Schnarr (Guelph Storm) 18
D – Dmitri Samorukov (Guelph Storm) 32
D – Thomas Harley (Mississauga Steelheads) 25
G – Ivan Prosvetov (Saginaw Spirit) 19
Coach – Dale Hunter (London Knights) 24 – voted 1st team in 2019-10, 2nd team in 2005-06, 1st team in 2004-05, 1st team in 2003-04
Halifax, NS – The Canadian Hockey League today announced the 10 national award winners for the 2018-19 season including 2020 NHL Draft eligible prospect Alexis Lafreniere of the Rimouski Oceanic who earned Sportsnet Player of the Year honours.
The awards were presented as part of the 2019 Memorial Cup presented by Kia festivities in Halifax.
2018-19 CHL Award Winners:
Sherwin-Williams Top Prospect Award: Bowen Byram, Vancouver Giants
Vancouver Giants defenceman Bowen Byram sits second in NHL Central Scouting’s Final North American Rankings ahead of the 2019 NHL Draft in Vancouver. The 17-year-old product of Cranbrook, B.C., wrapped up the 2018-19 campaign with 71 points in 67 appearances, including 26 goals to lead all WHL rearguards. He then finished first in league playoff scoring with 26 points, counting eight goals and 18 assists. Byram is the first WHL player to claim the Top Prospect Award since Nolan Patrick (Brandon Wheat Kings) in 2017. Finalists for the award this year also included Arthur Kaliyev of the Hamilton Bulldogs, who ranks seventh among North American skaters, and Raphael Lavoie of the Halifax Mooseheads, who is listed 20th overall.
Emera Top Scorer Award: Jason Robertson, Niagara IceDogs
Niagara IceDogs left-wing Jason Robertson led the CHL with 117 points in 62 games, counting 48 goals and 69 assists to help guide the IceDogs to a second-place regular-season finish in the OHL’s Eastern Conference. Following a midseason trade from the Kingston Frontenacs, the Dallas Stars prospect pushed the pace with his new club, tallying 79 points in 38 games. The 19-year-old native of Northville, Mich., is the first OHL skater to claim the Top Scorer Award since Dylan Strome (Erie Otters) did so in 2015. Finalists for the award this year also included San Jose Sharks prospect Joachim Blichfeld of the Portland Winterhawks, who scored 114 points, as well as Peter Abbandonato of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, who finished with 111 points.
Bumper to Bumper Sportsman of the Year Award: Justin Almeida, Moose Jaw Warriors
Moose Jaw Warriors centre Justin Almeida wrapped up the 2018-19 campaign with 111 points, including 33 goals and 78 assists, to finish just three points shy of the league scoring lead and help the Warriors secure third place in the WHL’s East Division. The 20-year-old from Kitimat, B.C., was also whistled for just 14 minutes in penalties as the Pittsburgh Penguins prospect took home the Brad Hornung Trophy as the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player. He is the second consecutive WHL skater to win the award after Aleksi Heponiemi (Swift Current Broncos) did so a year ago. Finalists for the Sportsman of the Year Award this year included Montreal Canadiens prospect Nick Suzuki of the Guelph Storm as well as Rouyn-Noranda Huskies centre Peter Abbandonato.
Kia Humanitarian of the Year Award: Charle-Edouard D’Astous, Rimouski Oceanic
Rimouski Oceanic defenceman Charle-Edouard D’Astous excelled on the ice while also serving as an ambassador in his hometown community of Rimouski, Que., in helping to raise $3,500 for the Rimouski Regional Hospital Foundation, for which he also served as a spokesperson. The 21-year-old signee of the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins was also involved with several other local charitable causes. On the ice, the fourth-year player led all QMJHL defenceman with 66 points, including a league-leading 25 assists on the power play. D’Astous is the first QMJHL player to win the award since Danick Martel (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada) in 2015, and the second from his team to win following Philippe Sauve in 1999. Finalists for the Humanitarian of the Year Award this year included Will Warm of the Edmonton Oil Kings and Nicholas Canade of the Mississauga Steelheads.
CIBC Scholastic Player of the Year Award: Dustin Wolf, Everett Silvertips
Everett Silvertips goaltender Dustin Wolf excelled both on the ice and in the classroom, where he maintained a 100% average across a Grade 12 workload covering four courses. Between the pipes, the 18-year-old Californian led the WHL with 41 wins, while also topping the charts with a 1.69 goals-against average and .936 save percentage. The budding netminder, who is eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft, is the first WHL player to claim the award since Josh Morrissey (Prince Albert Raiders) in 2013. Finalists for the Scholastic Player of the Year Award this year included Thomas Harley of the Mississauga Steelheads as well as Matthew Welsh of the Charlottetown Islanders.
Sofina Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award: Mario Pouliot, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies
Rouyn-Noranda Huskies head coach Mario Pouliot led his club to a franchise-record 59-win season in his first year behind the bench with his new team. He also guided the Huskies to a 25-win streak to tie a CHL record originally set in 1974. In all, Rouyn-Noranda finished the season in first place with a 59-8-0-1 record, good for 119 points. In the playoffs, the Huskies then captured the President’s Cup for the second time in four seasons. Pouliot is the first QMJHL head coach to win the Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award since Gillies Bouchard (Rouyn-Noranda Huskies) in 2016. Finalists this year included Marc Habscheid of the Prince Albert Raiders and Andre Tourigny of the Ottawa 67’s.
Wawanesa Rookie of the Year Award: Quinton Byfield, Sudbury Wolves
2020 NHL Draft prospect Quinton Byfield of the Sudbury Wolves put together an incredible freshman campaign that saw him produce at nearly a point-per-game pace as he notched 29 goals and 32 assists across 64 appearances. The 16-year-old native of Newmarket, Ont., who was originally drafted first overall by the Wolves in the 2018 OHL Priority Selection, follows in the footsteps of Alexander Nylander (Mississauga Steelheads), who was the last OHL skater to win the Rookie of the Year Award in 2016. He’s also just the second member of the Wolves to win following Benoit Pouliot in 2005. Finalists this year included Brayden Tracey of the Moose Jaw Warriors and Jordan Spence of the Moncton Wildcats.
Vaughn Goaltender of the Year Award: Ian Scott, Prince Albert Raiders
Prince Albert Raiders goaltender Ian Scott had a banner year, winning 38 of his 49 appearances to help guide the Raiders to first place in the WHL and an eventual 16-7 playoff record that saw the club win its first Ed Chynoweth Cup since 1985. The regular season saw the 20-year-old Calgary native top the charts with eight shutouts, while the Toronto Maple Leafs draft pick also finished second league-wide in goals-against average (1.83) and save percentage (.932). For two years running, a WHL netminder has captured the Goaltender of the Year Award, with Scott’s win coming on the heels of Carter Hart (Everett Silvertips) in 2018. Finalists this year included Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen of the Sudbury Wolves as well as Samuel Harvey of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.
Superstore Defenceman of the Year Award: Ty Smith, Spokane Chiefs
Spokane Chiefs defenceman Ty Smith claims the Defenceman of the Year Award after finishing second in Chiefs team scoring and fourth among all WHL blue-liners as he tallied seven goals and 62 assists for 69 points in only 57 appearances, helping him take home the Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy as the WHL Defenceman of the Year. The New Jersey Devils prospect and 19-year-old native of Lloydminster, Sask., is the first WHL rearguard to capture the Defenceman of the Year Award since Ivan Provorov (Brandon Wheat Kings) in 2016. Finalists this year included Evan Bouchard of the London Knights as well as Charle-Edouard D’Astous of the Rimouski Oceanic.
Sportsnet Player of the Year Award: Alexis Lafreniere, Rimouski Oceanic
Rimouski Oceanic left-wing Alexis Lafreniere is the Sportsnet Player of the Year, just one season after he was recognized as the CHL’s Rookie of the Year. The 17-year-old product of St-Eustache, Que., who is a projected early selection in the 2020 NHL Draft, wrapped up the 2018-19 campaign with 37 goals and 68 assists for 105 points in only 61 appearances as he led his team in scoring and finished just six points shy of top spot in the QMJHL scoring race. Lafreniere is the second consecutive skater from the QMJHL to take home the award as he follows in the footsteps of Alex Barre-Boulet (Blainville-Boisbriand Armada) who won the Player of the Year Award in 2018. This marks the fourth time a member of the Oceanic has won following Brad Richards in 2000, and Sidney Crosby who won back-to-back in 2004-05. Finalists this year included Joachim Blichfeld of the Portland Winterhawks as well as Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen of the Sudbury Wolves.
All photos courtesy of Vincent Ethier
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Buffalo Sabres prospect Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen of the Sudbury Wolves is the 2018-19 recipient of the Red Tilson Trophy awarded to the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player of the Year as voted by the writers and broadcasters that cover the league.
Luukkonen becomes the sixth goaltender to win the award and the first member of the Wolves to be honoured in 40 years since Mike Foligno was the club’s first award recipient back in 1979. The Finnish netminder is also the first European import player to be recognized.
“I am so honoured to have been named the Red Tilson Award winner,” Luukkonen said. “There are so many great players in the OHL who could have won this award and I am humbled to have been chosen. I want to thank the Sudbury Wolves organization for giving me a chance to play. I want to especially thank my teammates, Owner Dario Zulich, GM Rob Papineau, and my coaches, including goaltender coach Alain Valiquette and trainer Dan Buckland, for everything they have done for me.”
Luukkonen backstopped the Wolves to their most successful regular season since 1994-95. In their crease he tied for the league lead with 38 wins and six shutouts while posting the OHL’s third best goals-against-average with a mark of 2.50 and the best save percentage at .920. His GAA, SV%, and shutout total established new franchise records while his 38 wins are the second most in a single season in franchise history behind only Jim Bedard who won 40 games in 1975-76.
“Ukko had a remarkable and memorable season for the Sudbury Wolves in so many different ways,” said Wolves Vice-President and General Manager Rob Papineau. “To be recognized by the OHL writers and media as the winner of the prestigious Red Tilson Trophy as the OHL’s most outstanding player is so deserving and outstanding for him. As the season went on, so many people would talk about how great of a goalie Ukko is but this award is really special as it recognizes that he is in fact the most outstanding player in the OHL at any position. When you get to know him, Ukko really is the most outstanding player, goalie, and person, and he truly does deserve this great award.”
The 20-year-old from Espoo, Finland, began his OHL career on September 28 just three months after being chosen third overall in the 2018 CHL Import Draft. He won his first five regular season starts and would later produce impressive winning streaks of 11 and eight straight games throughout 2018-19 compiling an overall record of 38-11-2-2. His efforts helped the Wolves finish second in the Central Division standings with 43 wins and 91 points. This season Luukkonen was also selected as the OHL’s Goaltender of the Year in a unanimous vote by the league’s General Managers and represents the club as a first time recipient for that award.
“Ukko is an elite goaltender and a terrific young man,” said Wolves Head Coach Cory Stillman. “From the start of the season he was our best player in almost every game. He has a calm confidence about himself that allows him to control the outcome of a game. Ukko has all the tools to one day be a star in the National Hockey League.”
The second round pick by the Sabres in the 2017 NHL Draft signed his entry-level contract with the club back in June, 2018. In January, Luukkonen won gold for Finland at the 2019 IIHF World Junior Championship and was voted to the tournament’s All-Star team. Following the OHL season he made his American Hockey League debut stopping 32 shots on April 14 in a victory for the Rochester Americans.
“We are very excited that Ukko-Pekka has been named the Ontario Hockey League’s Most Valuable Player,” Buffalo Sabres Assistant General Manager Steve Greeley said. “We are very happy with his development and growth within the opportunity that he was given by the Sudbury Wolves and the OHL during this past season.”
The Red Tilson Trophy is the most prestigious individual award presented by the Ontario Hockey League. First presented in 1945, the trophy is named in honour of Albert “Red” Tilson, who was killed in action in Europe during World War II. Tilson was the OHA scoring champion for the 1942-43 season after scoring 19 goals and 38 assists for 57 points in 22 games with the Oshawa Generals.
Accredited media were asked to select their top three choices from the 20 nominees submitted by all 20 member clubs. Players received five points for a first place selection, three points for second place and one point for a third place selection. Luukkonen received 201 points in the voting process appearing on over 80% of the ballots cast. Overage Player of the Year Justin Brazeau of the North Bay Battalion finished in second place with 127 voting points, followed by OHL Top Scorer Jason Robertson of the Niagara IceDogs who received 123 voting points.
Recent Red Tilson Trophy recipients include Jordan Kyrou (Sarnia 2018), Alex DeBrincat (Erie 2017), Mitch Marner (London 2016), Connor McDavid (Erie 2015), Connor Brown (Erie 2014), and Vincent Trocheck (Plymouth 2013). Michael Houser (London 2012) was the last goaltender to win the award following Andrew Raycroft (Kingston 2000), Bill Harrington (Kitchener 1952), Glenn Hall (Windsor 1951), and Gil Mayer (Barrie 1949). Gilbert Perrault (Montreal 1970) is perhaps the most notable Red Tilson Trophy winner to later play for the Sabres along with others like Dale McCourt (St. Catharines 1977), Mike Foligno (Sudbury 1979), Doug Gilmour (Cornwall 1983), John Tucker (Kitchener 1984), Ray Sheppard (Cornwall 1986), Brian Campbell (Ottawa 1999), and Cody Hodgson (Brampton 2009) who all played multiple seasons in Buffalo.
The Red Tilson Trophy winner is the OHL’s nominee for Canadian Hockey League Player of the Year presented at the CHL Awards Ceremony on Saturday May 25 during the 2019 Memorial Cup presented by Kia which takes place in Halifax. Luukkonen will be formally presented with the Red Tilson Trophy at the OHL’s Awards Ceremony on Wednesday June 5 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
Steelheads’ Thomas Harley, 67’s Sasha Chmelevski, Attack’s Mack Guzda and Storm’s Zack Terry honoured
Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the recipients of the league’s three Academic Player of the Year awards for the 2018-19 season.
Thomas Harley of the Mississauga Steelheads is the winner of the Bobby Smith Trophy as Scholastic Player of the Year, with Sasha Chmelevski of the Ottawa 67’s earning the Roger Neilson Memorial Award as the Top Post-Secondary School Student, with co-winners Mack Guzda of the Owen Sound Attack and Zack Terry of the Guelph Storm sharing the Ivan Tennant Memorial Award for Top High School Student.
All three players will be formally presented with their awards at the annual OHL Awards Ceremony on Wednesday June 5, with Harley representing the OHL’s nomination for CHL Scholastic Player of the Year which will be announced on Saturday May 25 in Halifax at the 2019 Memorial Cup presented by Kia.
Bobby Smith Trophy (OHL Scholastic Player of the Year) – Thomas Harley (Mississauga Steelheads):
Thomas Harley has earned OHL Scholastic Player of the Year honours for his academic achievements in the classroom combined with his on-ice excellence for the Mississauga Steelheads. Harley has been enrolled in six University level courses at Philip Pocock Public High School and Blyth Academy where he carries an overall average of over 88% studying Advanced Functions, Interdisciplinary Studies, Biology, English, Geography, and Chemistry. On the ice, the top NHL Draft prospect scored 58 points in 68 games including 11 goals and 47 assists.
“It’s a huge honour to win this award,” said Harley. “A lot of great players have won it and I consider myself lucky to be among them. A huge thank you goes out to my parents, teachers, billets, and coaches who have gotten me to this point.”
The 17-year-old from Syracuse, New York, finished eighth among OHL defencemen in scoring and is the 11th ranked skater by NHL Central Scouting among North American prospects for the 2019 NHL Draft. The first round pick by the Steelheads in the 2017 OHL Priority Selection increased his point production by 43 from his rookie campaign and was voted Most Improved Player in the Eastern Conference Coaches Poll to go along with Best Offensive Defenceman and second Best Skater recognition. At season’s end, Harley represented Canada at the 2019 IIHF World Under-18 Championship.
“The Mississauga Steelheads organization would like to congratulate Thomas Harley for being named this year’s Bobby Smith Trophy recipient,” said Steelheads General Manager and Head Coach James Richmond. “We couldn’t be more proud of Thomas for what he has accomplished not only on the ice but in the classroom as well. His dedication and commitment to his studies is a ringing endorsement that people can be great student athletes! Well done Thomas and we wish you continued success!”
Each year the Bobby Smith Trophy is presented to the OHL Scholastic Player of the Year who best combines high standards of play and academic excellence. The trophy is in honour of Bobby Smith, a former Ottawa 67’s star who exhibited a standard of excellence in both of these areas. Harley is the second member of the Steelheads to win the award following Nicolas Hague in 2016. Additional recipients since the award was first presented in 1980 include three-time winner Dustin Brown (Guelph 2001-03), Steven Stamkos (Sarnia 2007), Ryan Ellis (Windsor 2008), Matt Duchene (Brampton 2009), Erik Gudbranson (Kingston 2010), Dougie Hamilton (Niagara 2011), Adam Pelech (Erie 2012), Darnell Nurse (Sault Ste. Marie 2013), back-to-back winner Connor McDavid (Erie 2014-15), Sasha Chmelevski (Ottawa 2017), and Barrett Hayton (Sault Ste. Marie 2018).
Next in line for the award were a pair of dynamic rookies including Cole Perfetti of the Saginaw Spirit and Jean-Luc Foudy of the Windsor Spitfires.
Roger Neilson Memorial Award (Top Post-Secondary Student) – Sasha Chmelevski (Ottawa 67’s):
Sasha Chmelevski of the Ottawa 67’s is currently pursuing courses at Oakland University in Michigan where he achieved over a 96% average. While his goals are Health Science directed with studies in Biology and Human Nutrition, he also demonstrated his diverse academic interests by opting to take an International Economics course during the winter term.
“I think it’s an honour for me,” Chmelevski said of the award. “All my life I’ve always wanted to be a hockey player but my parents always pushed me to be better in school. Education is something I take very seriously and I take a lot of pride in representing the 67’s with this award.”
A 19-year-old from Northville, Michigan, Chmelevski is no stranger to academic awards having been named both the OHL and CHL Scholastic Player of the Year back in 2017. On the ice, the 67’s leader produced 35 goals and 40 assists for 75 points in 56 games helping Ottawa to a record finish atop the OHL standings. Chmelevski has spent almost his entire OHL tenure with the 67’s joining the club during his rookie season after being chosen by the Sarnia Sting in the first round of the 2015 OHL Priority Selection. Over his 216 career games he’s scored 102 goals and 111 assists for 213 points and was a 2017 pick of the San Jose Sharks and a 2019 member of Team USA winning silver at World Juniors.
“Sasha is a driven leader, whose on-ice achievements speak for themselves,” said Jan Egert, 67’s Assistant General Manager and Director of Scouting. “Throughout his OHL career, Sasha has placed a continued importance on maintaining personal academic development, and has excelled in successfully reaching those ambitions. We are thrilled to see that Sasha is recognized for his efforts and achievements again this season.”
The Roger Neilson Memorial Award is named in honour of the Hall of Fame Coach who served behind the Peterborough Petes bench in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s. Neilson, a former high school teacher, was a pioneer in stressing the importance of education to all of his players. 67’s goaltender Dan Battochio was the first award recipient back in 2005 and is also one of three two-time winners after receiving the honour again in 2006. Derek Lanoue (Windsor 2010-11) and Stephen Gibson (Mississauga 2017-18) also share the distinction.
Runner-up for the award was Jonathan Yantsis, now a two-time finalist from the Kitchener Rangers, who also attended Wilfrid Laurier University.
Ivan Tennant Memorial Award (Top Academic High School Student) – Mack Guzda (Owen Sound Attack) & Zack Terry (Guelph Storm):
Owen Sound Attack goaltender Mack Guzda and Guelph Storm rookie defenceman Zack Terry share top academic high school student honours achieving impeccable results in the classroom with averages over 96%.
Guzda studied online through the K12 International Academy with courses that included British & World Literature 1 & 2, Psychology, U.S. & Global Economics, Environmental Science, and Careers in Criminal Justice. Terry studied an impressive seven Grade 11 courses at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic High School in Guelph including English, Functions, Chemistry, Dynamics of Human Relations, World Religions, Law, and Biology.
“It’s a huge honour to receive this award,” Terry said. “I’m very thankful to have been given the opportunity by Guelph to compete in the OHL and pursue my academics. I’m very fortunate for all the support from everyone in the Guelph Storm organization, and especially my family and academic advisor, Coleen Driscoll, for the endless energy and effort put into allowing me to achieve such a high degree in my academics. I can’t thank these people enough.”
This marks the first time since the award was introduced in 2005 where it has been co-presented and had a repeat winner with Guzda recognized for the second straight season.
“I am honoured to receive the Ivan Tennant Award from the OHL for the second year,” Guzda said. “I am grateful to the Owen Sound Attack organization, ownership and coaching staff as well as educational advisor Sarah Rowe, and to my family and billets. I am particularly appreciative of the OHL for allowing me to pursue my academic goals along with my athletic goals.”
An 18-year-old from Knoxville, Tennessee, Guzda made 49 appearances between-the-pipes for the Attack carrying an overall record of 20-19-4-1 with two shutouts, a goals-against-average of 3.63, and save percentage of .878. The club’s second round pick in the 2017 OHL Priority Selection and member of the OHL’s First All-Rookie Team in 2018 is now eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft and is listed 25th among North American goaltenders in NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings.
“Mack is an incredibly bright young man who is an outstanding goaltender as well,” said Attack General Manager Dale DeGray. “The organization is committed to success on the ice and in the classroom, and Mack exemplifies what we are looking for in a student-athlete.”
A 17-year-old from Oakville, Ont., Terry played 51 games for the Storm scoring twice with three assists. The second round pick in the 2018 OHL Priority Selection was one of just 11 OHL rearguards to represent Canada in the 2018 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge where he suited up for Team Black in November. Last season he enjoyed an offensive minded season leading the OMHA’s SCTA division in scoring from the back end with 43 points in 35 games for the Oakville Rangers.
“Through the years there have been many highly dedicated and committed student athletes in the Ontario Hockey League. In my experience, there has been no one more diligent and determined to succeed in the classroom than Zack,” said Storm General Manager and Head Coach George Burnett. “He is most deserving of this very prestigious recognition. The Guelph Storm are very proud of Zack’s outstanding work throughout his first season, both on and off the ice. Congratulations, Zack!”
The Ivan Tennant Memorial Award is given to the Top Academic High School Player and is named in honour of Ivan Tennant, who spent a lifetime combining hockey and education. He was the Kitchener Rangers’ Education Consultant for 20 years and a key figure on the OHL’s Education Consultant’s Committee. Andrew Shorkey (2007) is the only other member of the Attack to win the award while the Storm have been represented previously by Adam Craievich (2014) and Quinn Hanna (2017). Past recipients also include brothers Matt and Adam Pelech (Sarnia 2005 and Erie 2012), Freddie and Dougie Hamilton (Niagara 2009 and 2010), and recent winners Stephen Dhillon (Niagara 2015) and Kyle Keyser (Flint 2016).
Finalists for the award included Jake Murray of the Kingston Frontenacs, Mitchell Russell of the North Bay Battalion, Tye Austin of the Peterborough Petes, and Cole Perfetti of the Saginaw Spirit.
All 20 of the OHL’s member clubs provide nominees for each award with the Bobby Smith Trophy nominees representing the 2018-19 OHL Scholastic Team:
2018-19 OHL Scholastic Team:
Barrie Colts – Peter Fleming
Erie Otters – Jamie Drysdale
Flint Firebirds – Ethan Keppen
Guelph Storm – Owen Lalonde**
Hamilton Bulldogs – Logan Morrison
Kingston Frontenacs – Matt Hotchkiss*
Kitchener Rangers – Michael Vukojevic
London Knights – Sahil Panwar
Mississauga Steelheads – Thomas Harley
Niagara IceDogs – Ben Jones**
North Bay Battalion – Mitchell Russell
Oshawa Generals – Mitchell Brewer
Ottawa 67’s – Graeme Clarke
Owen Sound Attack – Nolan Seed
Peterborough Petes – Tye Austin
Saginaw Spirit – Cole Perfetti
Sarnia Sting – Brayden Guy
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds – Cole MacKay
Sudbury Wolves – Peter Stratis*
Windsor Spitfires – Jean-Luc Foudy
*two-time member of OHL Scholastic Team
**three-time member of OHL Scholastic Team
OHL Writers 