67’s’ MARCO ROSSI VOTED OHL’S MOST OUTSTANDING PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Rossi, Marco 2

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that 2020 NHL Draft prospect Marco Rossi of the Ottawa 67’s is the 2019-20 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.

Rossi becomes the eighth different 67’s player to win the award and first since Corey Locke’s second of back-to-back honours in 2003-04. He follows reigning Red Tilson Trophy recipient Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen of the Sudbury Wolves as the second European import player to ever be recognized.

“Thank you to all of the accredited OHL media writers for awarding me the prestigious Red Tilson Trophy,” said Rossi of the honour. “I would like to acknowledge the great Mr. Albert “Red” Tilson, who was killed in action in Europe during World War II, a true hero. In these COVID-19 unprecedented times, I honor the men and women, doctors and nurses and all of those putting their lives on the line for all of us across the globe, true heroes that follow in Mr. Tilson’s footsteps.”

Rossi finished atop the CHL scoring charts with 120 points including 39 goals, 81 assists and an impressive plus/minus rating of plus-69 over just 53 games. His 2.14 point-per-game pace led the OHL and is the highest such figure by a Red Tilson Trophy recipient since Erie’s Connor McDavid (2.55) in 2014-15. He was recently recognized as the first Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy recipient of European descent since Stan Mikita of the St. Catharines Teepees claimed the honour in 1958-59.

“I am extremely grateful to receive this recognition,” Rossi continued. “This is truly a team award, and I want to thank the entire first-class 67’s organization for their support over the 2019-20 season. From the ownership group, to the management staff, to the coaching staff, to the training staff, to my teammates, to my billeting family, to my immediate family, to the fans and to everyone who provided a helping hand during this last season and the time leading up to it: thank you! I am honored and forever grateful to receive this prestigious award.”

The 18-year-old from Feldkirch, Austria helped power the first place 67’s with the League’s top power play, rounding out the campaign with a total of 34 multi-point performances, 23 of which included three points or more. He earned three star of the game recognition a total of 23 different times, a figure that includes eight first star selections. The 5-foot-9, 187Ib. centreman finished the schedule with an impressive 58.5% success rate in the faceoff circle and was held off the scoresheet just four times.

Rossi’s 120 points are the most by a 67’s player in a single season since Locke (151) in 2002-03. His plus-69 rating is the fifth-highest by any player since the League began tracking plus/minus in 1996-97, trailing fellow 67’s Nick Boynton (plus 81, 1996-97) and Sean Blanchard (plus-74, 1996-97) as well as London’s Danny Syvret (plus-70, 2004-05) and Sault Ste. Marie’s Morgan Frost (plus-70, 2017-18).

“Marco brought fans out of their seats on numerous occasions this season, consistently showcasing his skill and smarts,” said 67’s general manager James Boyd. “Marco played with a commitment to the team concept and attention to detail defensively and on many nights dominated the game with his play at both ends of the ice. Marco is an outstanding player and it is fitting that he be awarded the Red Tilson Trophy for his contributions to our team this season.”

The sixth-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s Final Draft Rankings competed in the 2020 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game this past January in Hamilton. Rossi, who was named to the OHL’s second all-rookie team in 2018-19, has accumulated 185 points (68-117–185) over just 109 regular season games since being selected by the 67’s with the 18th overall pick of the 2018 CHL Import Draft. He was widely recognized in the 2019-20 OHL Coaches Poll, appearing in six different categories as he earned recognition as the Eastern Conference’s smartest player, best playmaker and best shootout shooter.

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 choice from the 20 nominees submitted by all 20 member clubs. Rossi led the way, receiving 62% of the overall vote followed by the League’s second-highest point producer in Cole Perfetti of the Saginaw Spirit with 13% of the vote and OHL goal-scoring leader Nick Robertson of the Peterborough Petes with his share of 12%.

This marks the 10th time a 67’s player has earned the award as Rossi follows the aforementioned Corey Locke (2002-03, 2003-04), defenceman Brian Campbell (1998-99), two-time winner Alyn McCauley (1995-96, 1996-97), Andrew Cassels (1987-88), Jim Fox (1979-80), Bobby Smith (1977-78) and Peter Lee (1975-76) in having his name engraved on the trophy. In addition to Luukkonen, other recent winners include Sarnia’s Jordan Kyrou (2018), Erie’s Alex DeBrincat (2017) and London’s Mitch Marner (2016). Rossi joins Connor McDavid (Erie 2015), Tyler Seguin (Plymouth 2010), John Tavares (Oshawa 2007), David Legwand (Plymouth 1998), Eric Lindros (Oshawa 1991) and Jack Valiquette (Sault Ste. Marie 1974) as the seventh player to claim the honour prior to his NHL Draft selection.

The Red Tilson Trophy winner is the OHL’s nominee for Canadian Hockey League Player of the Year to be announced in the coming weeks.

2020 OHL Awards announcements continue on Friday when the OHL recognizes the 2019-20 recipient of the Ken Bodendistel Character Award for Officials.

For full coverage of the 2020 OHL Awards, be sure to visit ontariohockeyleague.com or follow along on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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. For more information visit http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/.

67’s’ NOEL HOEFENMAYER NAMED OHL DEFENCEMAN OF THE YEAR PRESENTED BY REAL CANADIAN SUPERSTORE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Hoefenmayer, Noel (2)

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that overage veteran Noel Hoefenmayer of the Ottawa 67’s is the 2019-20 recipient of the Max Kaminsky Trophy awarded annually to the OHL’s Most Outstanding Defenceman of the Year presented by Real Canadian Superstore.

Hoefenmayer led OHL rearguards with 82 points including 26 goals and 56 assists over 82 games along with a plus-52 rating, spearheading the League’s top-ranked power play from the blue line. He became the first 67’s defender to lead his position in OHL scoring since Brian Campbell in 1998-99 while racking up the most goals by a Barber Poles blueliner since Bruce Cassidy in 1983-84. His eight game winning goals led the League’s defenders, the highest single season total at the position since London’s Danny Syvret in 2004-05. Hoefenmayer earned OHL Defenceman of the Month honours in October, December and January, rounding out his season with a total of 24 multi-point performances. He received three star of the game recognition 12 different times, including six instances where he was recognized as the game’s first star.

“It’s truly an honour to be able to represent the Ottawa 67’s and win such a prestigious award like the Max Kaminsky Trophy,” said Hoefenmayer. “I would like to thank the entire 67’s organization as well as the city of Ottawa for the tremendous support that myself and my teammates have gotten over my five year tenure with the team.  This award represents a lot of people that have helped me to get to where I am today, including the coaching staff, the training staff, Sean Young of Canadian Strength, Derek Miller of Next Gen Hockey, my billet families as well as my immediate family. Thank you!”

A 21-year-old native of North York, Ont., Hoefenmayer wraps up his accomplished five-year 67’s career sixth in all-time points by an Ottawa defenceman with 222 (65-157–222) accumulated over 298 regular season contests, the highest figure by a blueliner in club history. His 65 career goals are tied for third among franchise blueliners, trailing greats Denis Potvin and Doug Wilson. A former fourth round pick of the Arizona Coyotes in the 2017 NHL Draft, Hoefenmayer signed a two-year AHL contract with the Toronto Marlies last month. He was originally Ottawa’s second round pick in the 2015 OHL Priority Selection from the Don Mills Flyers minor midgets.

“Through hard work and perseverance Noel has showed continuous improvement throughout his junior career,” commented 67’s general manager James Boyd. “In addition to this season’s league leading offensive production, Noel has been a steady defensive presence on our blue line and is a key part of our team’s leadership group. Noel is a deserving recipient of this season’s Max Kaminsky Trophy.”

The Max Kaminsky Trophy is awarded each year to the Most Outstanding Defenceman as selected by OHL General Managers.  All 20 clubs submitted a nominee but were not permitted to vote for their own player.

The award is named in recognition of Max Kaminsky, who enjoyed a 10-year professional playing career that included four years in the NHL with Ottawa, Boston, and Montreal.  After he retired from playing, Kaminsky enjoyed a 15-year coaching career that was capped by winning the Memorial Cup with the St. Catharines Teepees in 1960.

Hoefenmayer becomes the eighth different 67’s defenceman to earn the distinction and first since Brendan Bell in 2002-03. Other franchise names engraved on the Max Kaminsky Trophy include Brian Campbell (1998-99), Sean Blanchard (1996-97), Chris Snell (1990-91), Brad Shaw (1983-84), Randy Boyd (1980-81) and two-time recipient Denis Potvin (1972-73, 1971-72). Past winners of the award also include current NHL talents in Andrej Sekera (Owen Sound 2006), Marc Staal (Sudbury 2007), Drew Doughty (Guelph 2008), Ryan Ellis (Windsor 2009 and 2011), Jacob Muzzin (Sault Ste. Marie 2010), Dougie Hamilton (Niagara 2012), Aaron Ekblad (Barrie 2014), Anthony DeAngelo (Sault Ste. Marie 2015), and Mikhail Sergachev (Windsor 2016).

Hoefenmayer will be the OHL’s nominee for CHL Defenceman of the Year to be announced in the coming weeks.

2020 OHL Awards announcements continue on Thursday when the OHL recognizes its Red Tilson Trophy recipient as the League’s Most Outstanding Player.

For full coverage of the 2020 OHL Awards, be sure to visit ontariohockeyleague.com or follow along on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

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. For more information visit http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/.

OHL SET FOR 2020 UNDER-18 PRIORITY SELECTION

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Press Release

Under 18 Priority Selection

Toronto, Ont. – The fourth annual OHL Under-18 Priority Selection is set to commence today at 12:00pm where no fewer than 40 players born in 2002 and 2003 will be chosen from Midget AAA programs from across the province.

The selections can be followed streaming live with audio on the OHL’s YouTube channel or with live results at ontariohockeyleague.com.

Here’s everything you need to know about the OHL Under-18 Priority Selection:

History:

The concept for the OHL Under-18 Priority Selection was developed in 2017 with full support from Hockey Canada’s three Ontario Branches including the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF), Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO), and Hockey Northwestern Ontario (HNO), to assist in the growth of Midget hockey and provide further opportunities for players at different stages of their hockey development.

OHL U18 Draft Picks in the OHL:

Victor Hadfield (Barrie Colts, 1st overall 2017), Emmett Serensits (Sudbury Wolves, 7th overall, 2017), Marko Jakovljevic (Sarnia Sting, 28th overall 2017), Kaleb Pearson (Owen Sound Attack, 29th overall 2017).

Mitchell Weeks (Sudbury Wolves, 1st overall 2018), Dustin Hutton (Kingston Frontenacs, 3rd overall (PBO) 2018), Daniel D’Amato (Erie Otters, 4th overall 2018), Griffin Wilson (Owen Sound Attack, 15th overall 2018), Dakota Betts (Niagara IceDogs, 17th overall (KIT) 2018)

Ryan Thompson (North Bay Battalion, 8th overall 2019), Logan LeSage (Owen Sound Attack, 29th overall 2019), Gavin White (Hamilton Bulldogs, 47th overall 2019)

Players Eligible for Selection:

All Midget players not currently on a CHL Member Team Protected List who were carded with a Midget AAA Hockey Club within the OHF, HNO, or HEO in the 2019-20 playing season are eligible for selection in the OHL Under-18 Priority Selection.

Once selected, players will be added to a separately designated Under-18 Priority Selection protected list, distinct from the 50-man protected list for players selected in the OHL Priority Selection or committing to OHL member teams as free agents.

Selection Procedure:

The Under-18 Priority Selection Process is capped at two rounds with each OHL Member Team required to select two players.

Given the cancellation of the 2019-20 OHL regular season, the order of Selection for the 2020 OHL Under-18 Priority Selection is determined by inverse order of the standings at the 61-game mark of the 2019-20 OHL regular season schedule of games with those teams who would not have qualified for the playoffs at that time selecting ahead of teams in playoff positions.

The North Bay Battalion will select first overall, followed by the Niagara IceDogs, Sarnia Sting, Soo Greyhounds and the Kingston Frontenacs rounding out the top five selections.

Goaltender Policy:

Should a Member Team select a goalie with one of their two selections, the Club has the option to select another player (skater only).  There will be an additional round added to the Under-18 Priority Selection to facilitate the drafting of the additional skater utilizing the same selection order and process.

General Rules of Selection:

OHL Member Teams may utilize a maximum of five minutes to select a player through the duration of the Under-18 Priority Selection.

Each OHL Member Team will have the opportunity for one two minute timeout during the Under-18 Priority Selection.

Follow on social media using #OHLU18Draft

OHL COMPLETES 2020 PRIORITY SELECTION PRESENTED BY REAL CANADIAN SUPERSTORE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Press Release

2020 Priority Selection

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today conducted the 2020 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore for North American players born in 2004.

The annual Priority Selection was held entirely online, adhering to all government and public health COVID-19 physical distancing guidelines at both the League and member team levels. This year’s unique approach to a very special day was conducted in the interest of ensuring the health and safety of prospects, their families as well as OHL member team and League personnel.

A total of 300 players were selected in the 15-round process from 87 different teams across Ontario and parts of the United States. The selected players included 176 forwards, 94 defencemen, and 30 goaltenders. While 290 of the players chosen were 2004-born athletes, also eligible for selection were non-overage players not carded with an Ontario-based Midget AAA team from protected OHL territories. Nine players born in 2003 where chosen under this criteria along with one player born in 2002.

“Congratulations to all 300 players selected in the 2020 OHL Priority Selection and for the commitment that was required to get to where you are today,” said Darrell Woodley, Director of OHL Central Scouting. “There’s a lot of hard work and dedication that goes into this tremendous accomplishment and the excitement extends to families, friends, coaches and teammates of all players involved. Being selected by an OHL team is a big milestone but it’s also just the beginning of your road to the next level. Opportunities for success are available for players with the right attitude and work ethic, including players not selected today, who may find success through next year’s Under-18 Priority Selection. Best of luck to all players in pursuit of your hockey and academic goals.”

The Ontario Minor Hockey Association led the way with 79 players selected from across 18 different organizations. The league champion Quinte Red Devils led OMHA clubs with 10 players selected followed by the Oshawa Generals, Southern Tier Admirals and Whitby Wildcats each with seven. The Greater Toronto Hockey League produced a total of 66 players from across 12 different programs led by the league champion Toronto Jr. Canadiens and Toronto Titans with 11 players each followed by the Toronto Marlboros and Toronto Nationals each with 10. The ALLIANCE featured 50 different players selected from across 12 different teams paced by the league champion Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs with nine trailed by the Hamilton Huskies with seven. Hockey Eastern Ontario produced 20 selections from nine different teams led by the Kanata Lasers and Rockland Nationals with four picks each. The Northern Ontario Hockey Association produced seven selections led by the North Bay Trappers and Soo Jr. Greyhounds with three players apiece while Hockey Northeastern Ontario featured one selection from the Thunder Bay Kings. An additional three players were selected from various other Canadian sources. A strong year from American-based programs saw 74 different players chosen from across 27 different teams. The Detroit Honeybaked U15 program led all Priority Selection teams with 12 players selected while Detroit Compuware produced a collective 12 between their U15 and U16 teams.

This season marked the 20th straight year the Priority Selection was conducted by way of the internet.

OHL, OHF, HNO AND HEO STATEMENT ON OHL GOLD CUP IN RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Press Release

We as the Ontario Hockey League, the Ontario Hockey Federation, Hockey Eastern Ontario and Hockey Northwestern Ontario support the Hockey Canada Statement quoted below.

“ HOCKEY CANADA STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

CALGARY, Alta. – The following is a statement on behalf of Hockey Canada from Tom Renney, chief executive officer, and Scott Smith, president and chief operating officer, on the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“Without question, this an unprecedented period of difficulty for the sports world. The health and safety of all participants in sport, including players, coaches, staff, officials, fans, family, volunteers and the general public, is of the utmost importance to Hockey Canada.

After much consultation with the Hockey Canada membership, our chief medical officer and public health officials, the Hockey Canada Board of Directors has made the decision to cancel all Hockey Canada-sanctioned activities, including our national championships, until further notice, effective Friday, March 13, 2020.

We recognize the tremendous effort that has been put forth all year by individuals across the country as they participate in Canada’s game. Although it is difficult to process the hockey season ending abruptly, we feel this is the best course of action in order to do our part in keeping our country safe.” ”

As such the 2020 OHL Gold Cup, will be cancelled. 

We do not take this decision lightly. It is important to remember that at the heart of this is the health and well-being of all the players, coaches, officials, team staff members, volunteers, and family members involved. The support and dedication that we have had from the community in the promotion and endorsement of this event is very much appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.

Further information will follow as it becomes available.

STATEMENT: CHL CANCELS 2020 PLAYOFFS AND MEMORIAL CUP

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Press Release

On March 12, 2020, in light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), in association with our three regional leagues the Western Hockey League (WHL), Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), made the decision to pause our season and last week officially cancelled all remaining regular season games.

We have continued to monitor the latest updates and advice from all public health agencies and medical experts, and worked tirelessly to determine a scenario by which the balance of our season could be played. Unfortunately, given the troubling state of our global climate and public welfare, there is still too much risk and uncertainty to move forward in good conscience.

With that in mind, CHL President Dan MacKenzie and Commissioners David Branch, Gilles Courteau, and Ron Robison, have made the difficult decision to cancel the OHL, QMJHL, and WHL playoffs, and along with the support of Kia Canada as the presenting sponsor, to cancel the 2020 Memorial Cup which was scheduled to be held in Kelowna, B.C., May 22-31, 2020.

The CHL, WHL, OHL, and QMJHL all take great pride in providing the best environment for our players both on and off the ice with health and safety for them, and all stakeholders of our game, at the forefront.

We look forward with hope that next season will provide new opportunity to celebrate, and that the Memorial Cup will be presented at our prestigious national championship, hosted by the OHL in May, 2021.

OHL ANNOUNCES 2019-20 REGULAR SEASON AWARD WINNERS

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

OHL awards

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the recipients of four of the league’s annual awards following the conclusion of the 2019-20 regular season.

Offensively, 2020 NHL Draft prospect Marco Rossi of the Ottawa 67’s captured the League’s scoring title earning the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy, while Los Angeles Kings prospect Arthur Kaliyev of the Hamilton Bulldogs is the recipient of the Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy for Top Scoring Right Winger.  Recognizing defensive efforts, the goaltending tandem of the team with the fewest goals against goes to Ottawa 67’s Cedrick Andree and Will Cranley who earn the Dave Pinkney Trophy, while Brett Brochu of the London Knights claims the F.W “Dinty” Moore Trophy as the rookie with the best goals-against average.

Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy (Scoring Champion): Marco Rossi, Ottawa 67’s

Marco Rossi finished atop the regular season scoring charts earning the Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy with a CHL-leading 120 points including 39 goals, 81 assists and an impressive plus/minus rating of plus-69 over just 53 games. His 2.14 point-per-game pace led the OHL and is the highest such figure by an OHL scoring champion since London’s Patrick Kane (2.50) in 2006-07. He becomes the first Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy recipient of European descent in the award’s 74-year history.

The 18-year-old from Feldkirch, Austria helped power the first place 67’s with the League’s top power play, rounding out the campaign with a total of 34 multi-point performances, 23 of which included three points or more. His top performances included a five assist showing on October 20th against Hamilton, another five point outing on November 17th in Sarnia and a career-high six point output on November 27th in Kingston. The 5-foot-9, 187Ib. centreman finished the season with an impressive 58.5% success rate in the faceoff circle.

The fifth-ranked North American skater on NHL Central Scouting’s Midterm Draft Rankings competed in the 2020 Kubota CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game this past January in Hamilton. Rossi, who was named to the OHL’s second all-rookie team in 2018-19, has accumulated 185 points (68-117–185) over just 109 regular season games since being selected by the 67’s with the 18th overall pick of the 2018 CHL Import Draft.

Rossi becomes the seventh player in 67’s franchise history to earn the award, following Tyler Toffoli (2011), two-time winner Corey Locke (2003, 2004), Andrew Cassels (1988), Jim Fox (1980), Bobby Smith (1978) and Blake Dunlop (1973). He follows other recent OHL standouts who won the award in their draft eligible seasons including Erie’s Dylan Strome (2015), Windsor’s Taylor Hall (2010), Plymouth’s Tyler Seguin (2010), London’s John Tavares (2009) and London’s Patrick Kane (2007).

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.  Jason Robertson of the Niagara IceDogs was last year’s recipient with 117 points in 62 games including 48 goals and 69 assists.  Other recent winners include Barrie’s Aaron Luchuk (2018), Erie’s Alex DeBrincat (2017) and Barrie’s Kevin Labanc (2016).

Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy (Top Scoring Right Winger): Arthur Kaliyev, Hamilton Bulldogs

Los Angeles Kings prospect Arthur Kaliyev of the Hamilton Bulldogs finished fifth in OHL scoring but led all right wingers with 98 points including 44 goals and 54 assists in 57 games.

The 18-year-old from Staten Island, NY became the Bulldogs’ all-time leader in both career points (248) and goals (126) this past season, leading the team offensively while setting a new single season club mark for assists with 54.

Kaliyev was the OHL’s Player of the Month for October. His season was highlighted by 29 different multi-point performances including a career-high five-point effort on January 9th in Niagara. The former second round (26th overall) pick of the Bulldogs in the 2017 OHL Priority Selection finished with the League’s second-highest total of 288 shots on goal as he becomes the first Hamilton player in OHL history to earn the award.

Kaliyev, who was a second team all-star in 2018-19 and represented the United States at the 2020 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, was a second round (33rd overall) pick by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2019 NHL Draft. He follows in the footsteps of former long-time Kings forward Jim Fox (Ottawa 67’s, 1979-80) as well as recent Kings winger Tyler Toffoli (Ottawa 67’s, 2011-12) in winning the award.

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.  Justin Brazeau of the North Bay Battalion was last year’s recipient with 113 points in 68 games scoring 61 goals with 52 assists.  Recent winners also include Jordan Kyrou of the Sarnia Sting in 2018, Alex DeBrincat of the Erie Otters in 2017, Kevin Labanc of the Barrie Colts in 2016, and Mitch Marner of the London Knights in 2015.

Dave Pinkney Trophy (Lowest Team Goals Against): Cedrick Andree and Will Cranley, Ottawa 67’s

The Ottawa 67’s allowed the fewest goals in the OHL for the second straight season, surrendering just 164 over a 62-game schedule backstopped by the tandem of Cedrick Andree and Will Cranley.

Andree and Cranley guided the 67’s to a second consecutive Hamilton Spectator Trophy as OHL regular season champions as Ottawa played to an overall record of 50-11-0-1 for 101 points. It marks the third time in franchise history that the Barber Poles have won 50 games and the fifth time they’ve finished first overall in the regular season standings.

Andree finished with the League’s second-lowest goals-against average of 2.42, second-highest win total of 32 as part of a 32-9-0-1 record along with a .916 save percentage and four shutouts over 43 games. The 19-year-old from Orleans, Ont. was a 12th round (232nd overall) pick by the club in the 2016 OHL Priority Selection. He claimed the Pinkney Trophy alongside Michael DiPietro in 2018-19 and becomes the first back-to-back recipient since Mississauga’s JP Anderson won consecutively in 2010 and 2011.

Cranley, who appeared in just 11 games with the 67’s in 2018-19, went an impressive 18-2-0-0 with a 2.81 goals-against average, .894 save percentage and four shutouts over 21 appearances. His 18 wins are the most by a 67’s designated rookie since Lukas Mensator (26) in 2002-03 while his four shutouts are the most by a 67’s designated rookie since Levente Szuper had just as many in 1998-99.  The 18-year-old from Peterborough, Ont. was a second round (35th overall) pick by Ottawa in 2018 and was the 16th ranked North American goaltender on NHL Central Scouting’s Midterm Rankings released in mid-January.

This marks the seventh time the 67’s have led the league with the fewest goals against. They become the first back-to-back winners of the award since the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors claimed the honours in both 2010 and 2011. It marks the second time that Ottawa has won the award in consecutive seasons as a trio of Craig Hillier, Seamus Kotyk and Tim Keyes combined to earn the distinction in both 1997 and 1998. Other 67’s netminders with their names engraved on the trophy include Darren Pang (1983-84), Greg Coram (1983-84), Jim Ralph (1980-81) and Michal Larocque (1971-72).

The Dave Pinkney Trophy is awarded annually to the goaltending tandem from the team that allows the fewest goals against during the regular season.

F.W. “Dinty” Moore Trophy (Best Rookie GAA): Brett Brochu, London Knights

Brett Brochu of the London Knights capped off his record-breaking season with the best goals-against-average among OHL rookie goaltenders at 2.40, the lowest figure among recipients since 2012-13.

The 17-year-old product of Tilbury, Ont. suited up in 42 games with the Knights this season, posting a 32-6-0-0 record with the league’s lowest goals-against average and third-highest save percentage of .919. His 32 wins on the year came one short of the League lead and set a new record for the most victories by a 16 or 17-year-old first-year goaltender in OHL history, surpassing the previous mark set by John Vanbiesbrouck (Sault Ste. Marie, 1980-81) and Andrew Loverock (Mississauga, 2006-07).

Brochu was recognized as OHL Rookie and Goaltender of the Month in January and was awarded the League’s top goaltender honours once again in February. A sixth round pick of the Knights in the 2018 OHL Priority Selection out of the Chatham-Kent Cyclones Minor Midget program, Brochu spent the 2018-19 season with the PJHL’s Dresden Jr. Kings where was named Stobbs Division Rookie of the Year with a 27-11-0 record, 2.46 goals-against average and .915 save percentage over 38 regular season games. He proceeded to go 6-5 in the playoffs with a 2.10 goals-against average, a .931 save percentage and two shutouts.

Brochu becomes the fourth Knight to earn the distinction after former teammate Jordan Kooy (3.11 GAA in 2017-18), Ryan MacDonald (2.06 GAA in 2003-04), Sean Basilio (3.65 GAA in 1989-90), and Barry Heard (3.28 GAA 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 recipient was Sault Ste. Marie’s Ethan Taylor with a 3.24 goals-against average.

OHL ANNOUNCES 2019-20 MINOR MIDGET PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Press Release

Midget Players of the Year

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the seven recipients of Minor Midget Player of the Year Awards for players representing the four Ontario Hockey Federation Member Partners including the ALLIANCE, Greater Toronto Hockey League, Northern Ontario Hockey Association, and both the Ontario Minor Hockey Association’s ETA and SCTA regions, along with Hockey Eastern Ontario, and Hockey Northwestern Ontario.

This year’s winners include Bryce McConnell-Barker of the London Jr. Knights (ALLIANCE), Pano Fimis of the Toronto Jr. Canadiens (GTHL), Cedrick Guindon of the Rockland Nationals (HEO), Brodie McLeod of the Thunder Bay Kings (HNO), Connor Toms of the Soo Jr. Greyhounds (NOHA), Donovan McCoy of the Quinte Red Devils (OMHA ETA) and Sam Alfano of the Southern Tier Admirals (OMHA SCTA).

“Congratulations to the recipients of this year’s awards and thank you to the families, coaches, and teammates for their tremendous support of these remarkable players over the course of the season and throughout their minor hockey careers,” said Kyle Pereira, the OHL’s Director of Player Recruitment.

“The OHL continues to recognize all the hard work, dedication, and extraordinary accomplishments from across Ontario. We thank all players for another great season and wish them the very best of luck in their hockey and academic careers.”

The recipients consist of four forwards and three defencemen. Looking up front, Alfano capped off the regular season second in SCTA scoring with 36 goals and 63 points in 32 appearances with the Admirals, while Guindon totaled 24 goals and 35 assists for 59 points over 41 games with the Nationals. McConnell-Barker tallied 29 goals and 48 points over 33 games with the Jr. Knights for fifth in ALLIANCE scoring and Fimis finished in a tie for first atop the GTHL scoring race with 14 goals and 28 assists for 42 points in 32 games with the league champion Jr. Canadiens.

On defence, McCoy recorded six goals and 29 assists for 35 points in as many games for the OMHA champion Red Devils while McLeod posted seven goals and 21 assists for 28 points in 39 games with the Kings. Toms registered eight goals and 15 assists, good for 23 points over 36 appearances with the Jr. Greyhounds.

The awards are presented annually to honour the minor midget players who best exemplify outstanding ability and the qualities of sportsmanship and leadership as voted by the minor hockey coaches, managers and organizations of each respective league.

Past Award Winners:

ALLIANCE Player of the Year:
2020 – Bryce McConnell-Barker, London Jr. Knights
2019 – Deni Goure, Chatham-Kent Cyclones
2018 – Matthew Maggio, Sun County Panthers
2017 – Ryan Suzuki, London Jr. Knights
2016 – Owen Lalonde, Windsor Jr. Spitfires
2015 – Nick Suzuki, London Jr. Knights
2014 – Anthony Salinitri, Windsor Jr. Spitfires
2013 – Travis Konecny, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs
2012 – Jared McCann, London Jr. Knights Gold
2011 – Bo Horvat, Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs

GTHL Player of the Year:
2020 – Pano Fimis, Toronto Jr. Canadiens
2019 – Shane Wright, Don Mills Flyers
2018 – Jamie Drysdale, Toronto Marlboros
2017 – Nick Porco, Vaughan Kings
2016 – Ryan Merkley, Toronto Jr. Canadiens
2015 – Ryan McLeod, Toronto Marlboros
2014 – Adam Mascherin, Vaughan Kings
2013 – Dylan Strome, Toronto Marlboros
2012 – Connor McDavid, Toronto Marlboros
2011 – Nick Ritchie, Toronto Marlboros

HEO Player of the Year:
2020 – Cedrick Guindon, Rockland Nationals
2019 – Mason McTavish, Pembroke Lumber Kings
2018 – Josh Barnes, Cornwall Colts
2017 – Alexandre Hogue, Cumberland Grads U18
2016 – Paul Larabie, Nepean Raiders
2015 – Gabriel Vilardi, CIH Academy
2014 – William Bitten, Ottawa Jr. 67’s
2013 – Andrew Peski, Ottawa Jr. 67’s
2012 – Andrew Abou-Assaly, Ottawa Jr. 67’s
2011 – Nicholas Baptiste, Ottawa Senators

HNO Player of the Year:
2020 – Brodie McLeod, Thunder Bay Kings
2019 – Jack Michaelis, Thunder Bay Kings
2018 – Michael Stubbs, Thunder Bay Kings
2017 – Christian Cicigoi, Thunder Bay Kings
2016 – Quintin Loon-Stewardson, Thunder Bay Kings
2015 – Kyle Auger, Thunder Bay Kings
2014 – Brad Belisle, Thunder Bay Kings
2013 – Zach Grzelewski, Thunder Bay Kings
2012 – Bryce Martyn, Thunder Bay Kings
2011 – Nolan Nicholas, Thunder Bay Kings

NOHA Player of the Year:
2020 – Connor Toms, Soo Jr. Greyhounds
2019 – Chase Stillman, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves
2018 – Pacey Schlueting, North Bay Trappers
2017 – Camaryn Baber, Soo Midget Greyhounds
2016 – Damien Giroux, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves
2015 – Cayse Ton, New Liskeard Cubs
2014 – Zach Dorval, Soo Thunder
2013 – Blake Speers, Soo Thunder
2012 – Michael Amadio, Sault Ste. Marie North Stars
2011 – Ryan Kujawinski, Sudbury Minor Midget Wolves

OMHA ETA Player of the Year:
2020 – Donovan McCoy, Quinte Red Devils
2019 – Brenden Sirizzotti, Whitby Wildcats
2018 – Quinton Byfield, York Simcoe Express
2017 – Alex Newhook, York Simcoe Express
2016 – Aidan Dudas, North Central Predators
2015 – Brady Gilmour, Quinte Red Devils
2014 – Chris Paquette, Greater Kingston Jr Frontenacs

OMHA SCTA Player of the Year:
2020 – Sam Alfano, Southern Tier Admirals
2019 – Lawson Sherk, Halton Hurricanes
2018 – Cameron Tolnai, Oakville Rangers
2017 – Matthew Dunsmoor, Guelph Jr. Gryphons
2016 – Adam McMaster, Niagara North Stars
2015 – Liam Stevens, Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs
2014 – Rylee St Onge, Niagara North Stars

*prior to 2014 there was a single OMHA Player of the Year award recipient

Past OMHA Players of the Year:
2013 – Matt Spencer, Oakville Rangers*
2012 – Nik Coric, York Simcoe Express*
2011 – Alex Yuill, Quinte Red Devils*

For more information please visit www.ontariohockeyleague.com.

OHL ANNOUNCES CONCLUSION OF 2019-20 REGULAR SEASON

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

The League now prepares for the 2020 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore to be conducted live online at ontariohockeyleague.com on Saturday, April 4 at 9:00am

Press Release

Toronto, Ont. – Ontario Hockey League Commissioner David Branch announced today the conclusion of the 2019-20 OHL Regular Season.

Following a meeting with the OHL Board of Governors and consultation with medical professionals, it was determined that the remaining 56 games of the 2019-20 OHL Regular Season schedule will be cancelled and not played.

“In the interest of the safety of our players, officials, staff, fans and the general public, it’s been agreed that the cancellation of the remainder of the 2019-20 regular season is the proper course of action to take at this time,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch.

“We are continuing to monitor ongoing public health developments regarding COVID-19. When it is safe and we may resume play, we will advise on the status of the 2020 OHL Playoffs. We thank OHL players and their families, fans and partners for their continued patience and understanding throughout this challenging situation.”

The League has additionally confirmed that the 2020 OHL Priority Selection presented by Real Canadian Superstore will be held live online at ontariohockeyleague.com on Saturday, April 4 beginning at 9:00am.

The 2020 OHL Priority Selection Order of Selection will be as follows:

Final OHL regular season standings are based off each OHL team having played an equal number of regular season games (61 games)

NON-PLAYOFF TEAMS:
1. North Bay Battalion – 38 pts.
2. Niagara IceDogs – 42 pts.*
3. Sarnia Sting – 48 pts.
4. Soo Greyhounds – 56 pts.

PLAYOFF TEAMS:
5. Kingston Frontenacs – 42 pts.*
6. Hamilton Bulldogs – 56 pts.
7. Mississauga Steelheads – 59 pts.
8. Erie Otters – 61 pts.
9. Barrie Colts 62 pts.
10. Owen Sound Attack – 68 pts.**
11. Sudbury Wolves – 68 pts.**
12. Guelph Storm – 72 pts.
13. Oshawa Generals – 73 pts.
14. Windsor Spitfires – 76 pts.***
15. Peterborough Petes – 76 pts.***
16. Flint Firebirds – 80 pts.
17. Kitchener Rangers – 83 pts.
18. Saginaw Spirit – 85 pts.
19. London Knights – 90 pts.
20. Ottawa 67’s – 99 pts.

NOTES:
* – Kingston and Niagara are tied for 8th place in the Eastern Conference with 42 points. Based on the League’s tie-breaker procedure (most ROW wins, i.e. wins excluding shootouts), Kingston receives the higher position in the standings.

** – Sudbury and Owen Sound are tied with 68 points. Based on the League’s tie-breaker procedure (most ROW wins, i.e. wins excluding shootouts), Sudbury receives the higher position in the standings.

*** – Peterborough and Windsor are tied with 76 points. Based on the League’s tie-breaker procedure (most ROW wins, i.e. wins excluding shootouts), Peterborough receives the higher position in the standings.

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. For more information visit http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/.

CHL STATEMENT: 2019-20 SEASON PAUSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Press Release

The Canadian Hockey League and its three regional leagues the Ontario Hockey League, Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, and Western Hockey League, take the health and safety of our players, fans, volunteers, staff, and general public very seriously. CHL President Dan MacKenzie with Commissioners David Branch, Gilles Courteau, and Ron Robison have been monitoring the situation in regards to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) including what local, provincial, and federal health agencies have recommended. Following consultation with medical professionals and meetings today among the CHL Executive Council, and regional league Board of Governors, the CHL announces that the balance of the 2019-20 season and all hockey activity shall be paused immediately until further notice.