OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK FOR DEC. 8-14, 2025

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, December 15, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, December 14, 2025.


Greyhounds’ Christopher Brown Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Soo Greyhounds forward Christopher Brown is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, scoring twice while adding five assists over three wins last week.

Brown contributed a pair of primary assists on Wednesday at home to the Kitchener Rangers before scoring the game-winning goal 1:21 into overtime, helping the Hounds prevail by a score of 3-2. He was back on the scoresheet with another multi-point showing on Sunday, scoring once while adding three helpers as the Hounds beat the visiting Owen Sound Attack 6-4.

A 19-year-old from Toronto, Brown has produced 33 points (11-22–33) over 32 games in this, his fourth OHL season. The former first round (16th overall) pick by the Greyhounds in 2022 has registered 86 points (27-59–86) over 185 career regular season games along with a plus-16 rating. Three of Brown’s 11 goals so far this season have been game-winners as he continues a bounce-back season following an injury shortened campaign in 2024-25.

2025-26 Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 22-28: Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 6-12: Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 13-19: Adam Benak (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 20-26: Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Harry Nansi (Owen Sound Attack)
Nov. 3-9: Alex Kostov (Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 10-16: Nathan Aspinall (Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 17-23: Marek Vanacker (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 24-30: Kieron Walton (Sudbury Wolves)
Dec. 1-7: Alex McLean (Guelph Storm)
Dec. 8-14: Christopher Brown (Soo Greyhounds)


Firebirds’ Mason Vaccari Named Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week

Flint Firebirds netminder Mason Vaccari is the OHL Goaltender of the Week for the second time this season, going 2-0 with a 1.00 goals-against average and .967 save percentage.

Vaccari’s strong overage season continues as he turned aside 26-of-27 shots in a lopsided 9-1 Flint Firebirds win over Guelph on Wednesday. He was back in the crease for a first star performance on Friday, making 32 saves as Flint beat visiting Kitchener 4-1.

A 20-year-old from Mississauga, ON, Vaccari leads the OHL with 18 wins to go with a 2.55 goals-against average, .918 save percentage and two shutouts over 24 games. The 5-foot-11, 184Ib. Vaccari owns a career record of 67-49-5-4 with a 3.28 goals-against average and .893 save percentage with three shutouts over 137 regular season games between Flint and Kingston. Kingston’s fourth round (61st overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection, Vaccari was both OHL and CHL Humanitarian of the Year in 2023-24, raising more than $13,000 for the Pediatric Wing at Kingston Health Sciences Centre by donating 50 cents of his own money for every save he made during the season. He suited up for the Columbus Blue Jackets at the 2025 Prospects Challenge in Buffalo.

2025-26 Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Jason Schaubel (Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 22-28: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
Oct. 6-12: Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 13-19: Patrick Quinlan (Sarnia Sting)
Oct. 20-26: Ryerson Leenders (Brantford Bulldogs)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Aleksei Medvedev (London Knights)
Nov. 3-9: Matthew Minchak (Kingston Frontenacs)
Nov. 10-16: Ben Hrebik (Barrie Colts)
Nov. 17-23: Easton Rye (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 24-30: Zach Bowen (Brampton Steelheads)
Dec. 1-7: Vladislav Yermolenko (Niagara IceDogs)
Dec. 8-14: Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)


Frontenacs’ Robin Kuzma Named OHL Rookie of the Week

Kingston Frontenacs forward Robin Kuzma is the OHL Rookie of the Week, recording two goals, three assists and five points over three victories.

Kuzma helped the Frontenacs get back on the winning track Wednesday night, scoring twice while adding an assist in a 7-3 win over Oshawa that ended a nine-game losing slide. He followed-up the first star performance with an assist on Friday as the Fronts beat the West Division-leading Windsor Spitfires 4-3, followed by another assist in Sunday’s 3-0 road win over the Oshawa Generals.

A 17-year-old from Naperville, Illinois, Kuzma has 14 points (9-5–14) through 33 games in his first OHL season. The 5-foot-11, 181Ib. centre was signed by Kingston as a free agent over the summer before being joined by older brother Andrew in black and gold. Kuzma is a graduate of the Chicago Mission AAA program.

2025-26 OHL Rookie of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
Sept. 22-28: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 6-12: Jaxon Cover (London Knights)
Oct. 13-19: Ryder Cali (North Bay Battalion)
Oct. 20-26: Jaakko Wycisk (Guelph Storm)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 3-9: Easton Walos (Sarnia Sting)
Nov. 10-16: Ryder Fetterolf (Ottawa 67’s)
Nov. 17-23: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Nov. 24-30: Levi Harper (Saginaw Spirit)
Dec. 1-7: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Dec. 8-14: Robin Kuzma (Kingston Frontenacs


Greyhounds Prospect Kalyn McQueen Named GOHL Prospect of the Week

Soo Greyhounds prospect Kalyn McQueen of the Cambridge RedHawks is the GOHL Prospect of the Week, recording two goals, six assists and eight points over a pair of victories.

McQueen was instrumental in Cambridge’s continued success as the first place RedHawks improved to 28-1 with a pair of victories. He recorded two goals and four assists in Friday’s 12-3 road win over the Caledon Bombers before adding a goal and an assist back at home on Saturday as Cambridge defeated the Welland Jr. Canadians 7-1.

A 17-year-old from Puslinch, McQueen has 10 points (4-6–10) through his first eight games with Cambridge after starting the season with 10 points (5-5–10) over 20 games with the OJHL’s Georgetown Raiders. Sault Ste. Marie’s 12th round (240th overall) pick in 2024, McQueen spent 2024-25 with the NOJHL’s Blind River Beavers, producing 24 points (10-14–24) over 50 games. He is a product of the Guelph Jr. Gryphons AAA program.

2025-26 GOHL Prospect of the Week
Sept. 10-21: Brendan Gerber (Elmira Sugar Kings/London Knights)
Sept. 22-28: Alex Forrest (Cambridge RedHawks/Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Liam Edgcumbe (Pelham Panthers/Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 6-12: Caden Bell (St. Catharines Falcons/Niagara IceDogs)
Oct. 13-19: Reed Straus (Elmira Sugar Kings/Oshawa Generals)
Oct. 20-26: Gensen Geldart (Chatham Maroons/Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 27-Nov. 2: Lyndon Cabral (Listowel Cyclones/Erie Otters)
Nov. 2-9: Jake Ritson (Strathroy Rockets/London Knights)
Nov. 10-16: Ulysses Lombardi (Waterloo Siskins/Flint Firebirds)
Nov. 17-23: Alex Campeau (London Nationals/London Knights)
Nov. 24-30: William Camputaro (St. Thomas Stars/Soo Greyhounds)
Dec. 1-7: Ian Robinson (Port Colborne Sailors/Kitchener Rangers)
Dec. 8-14: Kalyn McQueen (Cambridge RedHawks/Soo Greyhounds)

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE MONTH FOR OCTOBER

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Saturday, November 1, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Top Performers of the Month for October, with additional totals from September’s opening weeks of the regular season also recognized.

Player of the Month – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs) – 12 GP, 7G, 19A, 26 PTS., +15
Seattle Kraken prospect Jake O’Brien of the Brantford Bulldogs is the OHL Player of the Month for October, starting his season with a league-leading 26 points (7-19–26) through just 12 games. O’Brien’s start featured seven different multi-point outings highlighted by five points (3-2–5) on Oct. 12th in an 8-5 win over the Ottawa 67’s. He tallied four points (1-3–4) in a game on Oct. 26th as the Bulldogs defeated the host Oshawa Generals 4-1. Behind O’Brien’s leadership, Brantford remains the lone OHL team that is undefeated in regulation (11-0-2-1) entering the month of November.

Named Bulldogs captain to start the season, the 18-year-old O’Brien leads the OHL with 26 points in his third OHL season. The former OHL Rookie of the Year in 2023-24 has 188 career points (52-136–188) over 139 regular season games as a Bulldog. Brantford selected O’Brien with the eighth overall pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection. He was Seattle’s first round (8th overall) pick last summer, signing an entry-level NHL contract with the Kraken on July 3, 2025.

Also considered for the award this month, Owen Sound Attack forward Tristan Delisle rides a 16-game point streak, producing 24 points (9-15–24) in that span. Bulldogs teammate Adam Benak, a Minnesota Wild prospect, was also productive with 24 points (7-17–24) over 12 games.

Defenceman of the Month – Carson Woodall (Windsor Spitfires) – 16 GP, 2G, 20A, 22 PTS., +4
Windsor Spitfires blueliner Carson Woodall is the OHL Defenceman of the Month for October, leading OHL rearguards with 22 points (2-20–22) over 16 contests. The third year veteran has recorded a point in all but two of his outings this season, scoring his two goals in a 2-0 win over the Ottawa 67’s on Oct. 23rd. Woodall’s offensive productivity has helped the Spitfires put together the league’s third-ranked power play at 32.8 percent, with him leading all OHL players in power play points with 14 (1-13–14).

A 19-year-old from nearby Belle River, ON, Woodall is a former 10th round (202nd overall) pick by the Spitfires in 2022 who has developed into a reliable contributor on the blueline. The 5-foot-11, 183Ib. defenceman has accrued 89 points (11-78–89) over his 142 career regular season games with the Spitfires.

Also considered for the award this month, New York Islanders prospect Kashawn Aitcheson of the Barrie Colts leads OHL defencemen with nine goals, including a pair of recent overtime winners. The 18-year-old Aitcheson has 15 points (9-6–15) in as many games.

Goaltender of the Month – Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires) – 11 GP, 9-1-0-0, 1.66 GAA, .923 SV%, 2 SO
Joey Costanzo of the Windsor Spitfires is the OHL Goaltender of the Month for October, compiling an impressive record of 9-1 with a 1.66 goals-against average and .923 save percentage over 11 contests. Costanzo’s success featured a pair of shutouts, with the first in a 4-0 win over the Sudbury Wolves on Sept. 25th followed by another in a 6-0 triumph over the Niagara IceDogs on Oct. 2nd.

A 20-year-old from Toronto, Costanzo owns a career OHL record of 84-50-5-4 with a 3.61 goals-against average and .884 save percentage with seven shutouts over 158 regular season games between Windsor and Niagara. He was originally. Niagara’s second round (23rd overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection.

Also considered for the award this week, Mason Vaccari of the Flint Firebirds was very good in October, going 7-2-1-0 with a 2.66 goals-against average and .923 save percentage and two shutouts over 10 games. Niagara IceDogs newcomer Vladislav Yermolenko also made a strong impression, going 6-1-0-1 with a 2.63 goals-against average, a .925 save percentage and one shutout over nine games. Additionally, San Jose Sharks prospect Christian Kirsch of the Kitchener Rangers played to an 8-2-0-0 mark with a 1.99 goals-against average, .920 save percentage and one shutout.

Rookie of the Month – Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit) – 15 GP, 10G, 13A, 23 PTS., +2
First-year Saginaw Spirit forward Nikita Klepov is the OHL Rookie of the Month for October, pacing OHL newcomers with 23 points (10-13–23) over 15 games. Klepov’s introduction to the OHL has been headlined by a five-point effort (2-3–5) on Oct. 4th as the Spirit skated to a 7-5 road win over the Owen Sound Attack. He’s proceeded to post a goal and an assist on Oct. 18th at Flint and Oct. 24th vs. Erie. Klepov currently leads all OHL skaters with 71 shots on goal.

A 17-year-old from Deerfield Beach, Florida, Klepov comes to the OHL from the USHL’s Sioux City Musketeers where he posted 31 points (12-19–31) over 59 games in 2024-25. Selected 35th overall by the Spirit in the 2025 CHL Import Draft, Klepov is an A-rated skater on NHL Central Scouting’s preliminary players to watch list, indicating a potential first round NHL Draft pick. The 6-foot, 180Ib. right-wing won gold with the United States at this past summer’s Hlinka-Gretzky Cup. Klepov is committed to Michigan State (NCAA).

Also considered for the award this week, fellow NHL Draft prospect Caleb Malhotra of the Brantford Bulldogs piled up 19 points (6-13–19) over 14 games. Spirit teammate Levi Harper was a productive force on the blueline, recording 15 points (5-10–15) over 15 contests. In the crease, Ryder Fetterolf of the Ottawa 67’s went 5-2-1-0 with a 2.10 goals-against average and .919 save percentage.

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR OCTOBER

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Friday, October 31, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) today announced Academic Players of the Month for October, recognizing dedication to excellence in the classroom in the opening month of the season.

East Division – Aiden O’Donnell (Oshawa Generals)
Newly acquired Oshawa Generals forward Aiden O’Donnell is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for October, achieving a 95% grade in his Grade 12 University-level Advanced Functions program, in addition to an 86% average in Grade 12 University-level English.

“Aiden has proven to be an outstanding student,” said Maureen Alfano, who served as O’Donnell’s Academic Advisor over the past two seasons in Brantford. “He manages his academic responsibilities with quiet confidence, consistently excelling in all of his courses. Calm and focused, he stays on top of his assignments, meets deadlines, and demonstrates a strong commitment to his education. We are incredibly proud of his academic efforts and accomplishments.”

O’Donnell was acquired by the Generals in a trade announced Thursday. The 17-year-old from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia has eight points (4-4–8) through his first 14 games of the season after recording 17 points (7-10–17) over 58 games as a rookie in 2024-25. The Bulldogs selected O’Donnell with the 14th overall pick of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. He was included as a B-rated prospect by NHL Central Scouting on their preliminary players to watch list released on Oct. 20th.

Central Division – Cole Emerton (Barrie Colts)
Barrie Colts defenceman Cole Emerton is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for October, registering an average above 90% in four Grade 12 University-level courses including Data, Functions, Biology and High Performance.

“Cole is a very diligent student who takes his education very seriously,” said Colts Academic Advisor Brent Preston. “His teachers say he’s an exemplary student who works extremely hard.”

An 18-year-old defenceman from Oro-Medonte, just outside of Barrie, Emerton is off to a strong start in his first OHL season, recording nine assists over 15 games. The 5-foot-11, 183Ib. blueliner was the Colts’ third round (50th overall) pick in 2024 from the GTHL champion Vaughan Kings AAA program. He recorded 25 points (10-15–25) over 50 games with the OJHL’s Toronto Patriots in 2024-25.

Midwest Division – Lucas Ambrosio (Erie Otters)
Erie Otters defenceman Lucas Ambrosio is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for October, posting a 92.6% average in Grade 12 Sports Analytics, as well as an 81.5% mark in World Religions. He’s also produced strong results in a Math Data Management course.

“Lucas has shown tremendous initiative throughout the month, getting off to a fantastic start academically,” said Otters Assistant General Manager and Director of Hockey Operations Scott Grieve. “He has put in a lot of work on his courses since the beginning of the season. We are very proud of Lucas’ continued accomplishments in the classroom, in the community and on the ice.”

A 6-foot-4, 194Ib. left-shot defenceman from Oakville, ON, the 17-year-old Ambrosio has three assists through his first 16 games of the season. He started his OHL career with 13 points (4-9–13) over 52 games in 2024-25 after being selected by Erie in the second round (25th overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection. Ambrosio was listed as a B-rated prospect on NHL Central Scouting’s preliminary players to watch list released earlier this month.

West Division – Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)
Flint Firebirds goaltender Mason Vaccari is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for October, achieving a 95% in a University Microeconomics course through Nipissing University.

“Mason is a hard-working student athlete with excellent time management skills, a positive attitude, and a goal-oriented growth mindset,” said Firebirds Academic Advisor Michelle Horning. “We are extremely proud of his accomplishments so far this season, both on and off the ice.”

Vaccari is off to a successful start to his overage season, going 7-2-1-0 with a 2.66 goals-against average, .923 save percentage and two shutouts through 10 games. The 20-year-old from Mississauga, ON was acquired by Flint over the summer following three seasons in Kingston. He’s compiled a career record of 56-47-5-3 with a 3.38 goals-against average and .890 save percentage with three shutouts over 123 regular season contests. Originally Kingston’s fourth round (61st overall) pick in 2021, Vaccari earned OHL and CHL Humanitarian of the Year honours in 2024 through his work with Mason’s Miracles benefitting the Kingston Health Sciences Centre pediatric wing. He attended rookie camp with the Columbus Blue Jackets this past September, representing them at the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo, NY.

OHL ANNOUNCES TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK FOR OCT. 6-12, 2025

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

TORONTO (Monday, October 13, 2025) – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, October 12, 2025.



Bulldogs’ Jake O’Brien Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

Seattle Kraken prospect Jake O’Brien of the Brantford Bulldogs is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, scoring four times while adding four assists as the Bulldogs went 3-0.

After being held off the scoresheet in Brantford’s 7-4 road win over the Niagara IceDogs on Thursday, O’Brien came up with a goal and two assists in the Bulldogs’ 6-0 blanking of the visiting Sudbury Wolves on Friday. Sunday saw O’Brien match a career high with five points including a hat-trick as the Bulldogs handed the Ottawa 67’s their first loss of the season in an 8-5 outcome. O’Brien earned first star honours in the win, finishing with a plus-4 rating.

An 18-year-old from Toronto, O’Brien sits second in OHL scoring with 13 points (5-8–13) through six games to go with a plus/minus rating of plus-11. The 6-foot-2, 177Ib. centre was selected by the Seattle Kraken with the eighth overall pick of the 2025 NHL Draft after posting 98 points (32-66–98) over 66 games in 2024-25. A former OHL Rookie of the Year Award recipient in 2023-24, O’Brien was originally the Bulldogs’ eighth overall pick in the 2023 OHL Priority Selection after he was named OHL Cup MVP for the victorious Toronto Jr. Canadiens. Internationally, O’Brien helped Canada win gold at the 2024 Hlinka-Gretzky Cup.

2025-26 Cogeco OHL Player of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 22-28: Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Kashawn Aitcheson (Barrie Colts)
Oct. 6-12: Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)



Firebirds’ Mason Vaccari Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Mason Vaccari of the Flint Firebirds is the Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week, posting back-to-back shutouts in victories over Kitchener and Oshawa.

Vaccari stopped all 46 shots sent his direction, making 20 of those saves on Wednesday as the Firebirds blanked the Kitchener Rangers by a score of 3-0. The overage netminder turned aside 26 more on Saturday, earning first star recognition in a second straight game as the Firebirds froze the Oshawa Generals in a 3-0 final.

A 20-year-old from Mississauga, Vaccari is 3-1-1-0 with a 2.75 goals-against average and .914 percentage through five gams to begin his fourth OHL season. The former CHL and OHL Humanitarian of the Year Award recipient in 2024 is a career 52-46-5-3 with a 3.42 goals-against average and .888 save percentage. Vaccari represented the Columbus Blue Jackets in this year’s Prospects Challenge held in Buffalo, NY. He was originally Kingston’s fourth round (61st overall) pick in 2021.

2025-26 Mary Brown’s Chicken OHL Goaltender of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Jason Schaubel (Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 22-28: Joey Costanzo (Windsor Spitfires)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Gavin Betts (Kingston Frontenacs)
Oct. 6-12: Mason Vaccari (Flint Firebirds)



Knights’ Jaxon Cover Named OHL Rookie of the Week

NHL Draft eligible London Knights forward Jaxon Cover is the OHL Rookie of the Week, producing a goal and three assists over a pair of victories.

Cover recorded a goal and an assist in London’s 6-1 win over the Erie Otters on Friday night, returning a night later to chip in with two assists as the Knights beat the Sarnia Sting 5-4 in overtime.

An 17-year-old from Grand Cayman, Cover has five points (3-2–5) through his first seven games of the season. The 6-foot-1, 185Ib. left-wing appeared in three games with London in 2024-25, recording a pair of assists while spending most of the season at St. Andrew’s College where he produced 40 points (21-19–40) over 55 games. The Knights selected Cover in the fourth round (64th overall) of the 2024 OHL Priority Selection.

2025-26 OHL Rookie of the Week
Sept. 18-21: Thomas Vandenberg (Ottawa 67’s)
Sept. 22-28: Caleb Malhotra (Brantford Bulldogs)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Nikita Klepov (Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 6-12: Jaxon Cover (London Knights)

IceDogs Prospect Caden Bell Named GOHL Prospect of the Week

Niagara IceDogs prospect Caden Bell of the St. Catharines Falcons is the GOHL Prospect of the Week, recording three goals, two assists and five points across three victories.

Bell chipped in an assist in St. Catharines’ 6-1 win over the Caledon Bombers on Tuesday before putting together his best GOHL performance to date on Friday, scoring a pair of power play goals while adding an assist in a 5-3 win over the Port Colborne Sailors. Bell rounded-out the week by extending his point streak to five games on Sunday, scoring in St. Catharines’ 6-2 win over the Welland Jr. Canadians.

Niagara’s third round (49th overall) pick in 2025, Bell sits second among GOHL rookie defencemen with 11 points (5-6–11) in as many games. The 5-foot-11, 165Ib. right-shot defender was an OHL Cup finalist as a member of the Don Mills Flyers AAA program in 2024-25, being named to the tournament all-star team with eight points (4-4–8) in the seven game showcase. Bell produced 20 points (10-19–29) over 32 games in his U16 AAA season.

2025-26 GOHL Prospect of the Week
Sept. 10-21: Brendan Gerber (Elmira Sugar Kings/London Knights)
Sept. 22-28: Alex Forrest (Cambridge RedHawks/Kitchener Rangers)
Sept. 29-Oct. 5: Liam Edgcumbe (Pelham Panthers/Flint Firebirds)
Oct. 6-12: Caden Bell (St. Catharines Falcons/Niagara IceDogs)

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH PRESENTED BY HOCKLEY VALLEY RESORT

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for October, proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.

East Division – Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)
Kingston Frontenacs goaltender Mason Vaccari is the East Division Academic Player of the Month for October. The 19-year-old from Mississauga, Ont. is currently studying at Nipissing University, maintaining a 93 percent average in his Bachelor of Commerce distance program. Vaccari has excelled in Organizational Human Resources and Accounting courses.

“Mason continues to be a role model for his teammates and young fans,” said Frontenacs academic advisor Kristi LeSarge. “We couldn’t be prouder to work with him.”

On the ice, Vaccari owns a record of 2-2-1-0 with a 3.64 goals-against average and .878 save percentage through seven games this season. Last year’s OHL and CHL Humanitarian of the Year Award recipient owns a career mark of 40-43-4-0 with a 3.55 goals-against average and .886 save percentage through 95 regular season games since being Kingston’s fourth-round pick in 2021.

Central Division – Kent Greer (North Bay Battalion)
North Bay Battalion first-year blueliner Kent Greer is the Central Division Academic Player of the Month for October. Greer has achieved high standing in Grade 11 studies at Chippewa Secondary School, engaged in Mathematics, Healthy, Active Living, International Business and Co-operative Education courses.

“Kent is the type of student whose teachers all took the time during the first, very hectic week of school to seek me out and let me know how much they enjoy having him in their class,” said Stephanie Silverthorn, academic advisor for the Battalion. He is a diligent, motivated student whose positive attitude and strong work ethic enable him to be a natural leader in the class.”

North Bay’s second-round pick last spring, Greer has four points (2-2–4) through his first 14 career OHL contests. The 16-year-old from Renfrew, Ont. spent the 2023-24 season with the Barrie Colts U16 AAA program where he contributed to an OMHA championship.

“Kent has seamlessly joined our program and has been a leader on and off the ice,” said Battalion GM John Winstanley. “He does an excellent job at balancing his academic and athletic commitments.”

Midwest Division – Jimmy Sutherland (Guelph Storm)
Guelph Storm forward Jimmy Sutherland is the Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for October. Sutherland has maintained a 93 percent average in Grade 12 university-level studies at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic High School, excelling in Data Management, Economics and International Business.

“Jimmy is conscientious and self-motivated,” said Storm academic advisor Coleen Driscoll. “He takes initiative in his learning and collaborates well with his peers. His teachers describe him as an excellent student with a positive work ethic.”

A 17-year-old left-winger from Komoka, Ont., Sutherland has appeared in nine games with the Storm this season along with an additional two with the GOJHL’s Elmira Sugar Kings. The former 13th-round pick in 2023 had a strong season with the GOJHL’s Strathroy Rockets in 2023-24, producing 31 points (16-15–31) over 50 regular season games. He’s a graduate of the Bishop Kearney Selects program.

West Division – Kaden Sienko (Saginaw Spirit)
Saginaw Spirit first-year defender Kaden Sienko is the West Division Academic Player of the Month. The 16-year-old from Binghamton, NY is achieving a 95 percent average across five Grade 11 courses at Heritage High School, learning English, Biology, Pre-Calculus, US History and engaged in a Co-op.

“Kaden is gifted and very dedicated to his studies,” said Spirit academic advisor Pamela Moretuzzo. “He embodies the ideal balance between academic excellence and athletic achievement. His commitment to his studies is evident in both the quality of his work and his well-organized approach to managing his time between demanding academic and athletic schedules.”

Saginaw’s 13th-round pick last spring, Sienko has recorded two assists across his first 10 OHL contests. The Spirit selected Sienko from the South Kent School AAA program, where he wore the ‘C’ last season.

FRONTENACS’ VACCARI AWARDED DAN SNYDER MEMORIAL TROPHY AS OHL HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs is the 2023-24 recipient of the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy presented annually to the OHL’s Humanitarian of the Year.

Through his “Mason’s Miracles” initiative, Vaccari has raised more than $13,200 for the Pediatric Wing at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, a figure that will continue to grow into the summer.

At the outset of the season, Vaccari prioritized using his athletic gifts to make an impact in the lives of children, setting up various fundraising initiatives to benefit the local hospital. He started by donating .50 cents of his own money for each of the 1,458 saves he’d go on to make during the 2023-24 season, a figure that would be matched by generous community supporters. Members of the Kingston hockey community donated at a link created through canadahelps.org throughout the season, further bolstering Vaccari’s fundraising efforts.

The 19-year-old goaltender also went to great lengths to form personal connections with young patients in the Kingston Health Sciences Centre’s Pediatric Wing, making visits there on off-days throughout the season.

“Being recognized with this award is truly an honour,” said Vaccari. “When the idea of Mason’s Miracles first started, the goal was to give back to the community that has given my teammates and I a home away from home. I’m very proud to have surpassed our goal of raising $10,000 for the Pediatric ward and am confident that this money will go a long way toward making a difference for children needing care at the hospital.

“I’d especially like to thank Charette Custom Homes for believing in me, this mission, and matching my donations over the course of the year. I’d also like to thank the doctors, nurses and families who allowed my teammates and I to spend time with and get to know some of the children within the ward. I really enjoyed my visits and these were some of my favourite memories of the season.

Finally, I’d like to thank everyone including my family, friends, billets, the rest of the Frontenacs organization, and everyone else who has made a donation online, contributed their time to get the word out, and sent me messages of encouragement along the way. I am so grateful for your support and I couldn’t have accomplished any of this without you.”

An 89 percent student in his final semester of high school, Vaccari quickly enrolled in online university prep courses including Economics and Human Development to close out 2023-24. He got creative in his fundraising work, holding a design-a-mask contest that continues to raise funds through an online auction that is still ongoing here.

“We are extremely proud of Mason for his efforts in our community,” said Frontenacs General Manager Kory Cooper. “When players arrive in Kingston, we stress the importance of being involved in the community and being good people on and off the ice. Mason has taken that to the next level this season. He provides us with a great example of what players in our organization and our league can accomplish with their platform. Mason is deserving of this award, and he should be proud of what he has accomplished with Mason’s Miracles.”

Vaccari, who hails from Mississauga, Ont., was busy in the crease as well, appearing in 59 games while going 27-27-3-0 with a 3.55 goals-against average and .880 save percentage. His 1,458 saves were the fourth-most in the OHL this season. The former fourth round pick by Kingston in 2021 has played to a career regular season mark that includes a record of 38-41-3-0 with a 3.54 goals-against average and .887 save percentage over 88 games.

Vaccari was the front-runner for this year’s OHL Humanitarian of the Year Award, with North Bay Battalion defenceman Ty Nelson finishing as the runner-up for his tremendous efforts with Community Living North Bay.

Each year the OHL awards a player that has demonstrated outstanding qualities as a positive role model in the community with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy. The Ontario Hockey League Board of Governors announced in 2004 that the OHL Humanitarian of the Year award would be named in recognition of the former Owen Sound Platers captain, who was twice named his team’s Humanitarian of the Year in recognition of his tremendous efforts in supporting community activities.

Vaccari follows Andrew Raycroft (1999-2000) and David Ling (1994-95) to become the third player in Frontenacs franchise history to win the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy. Other recent OHL recipients include Dalyn Wakely of the North Bay Battalion (2022-23) and Mark Woolley of the Owen Sound Attack (2021-22).

Vaccari will be the OHL’s nominee for the Canadian Hockey League Humanitarian of the Year Award, presented at the CHL Awards Ceremony on Saturday, June 1 during the 2024 Memorial Cup presented by Dow which takes place in Saginaw, Michigan from May 24 through June 2. Vaccari will be formally presented with the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy at the OHL Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, June 12 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.

For a complete list of OHL award winners, click here.

“For many kids, coming to the hospital for care or treatment can be scary. One of the goals of our team is to make the hospital stay as positive as possible. When Mason offered to spend some time visiting patients, he didn’t just brighten their afternoon – he made a positive impact on their entire hospital experience. This was especially apparent when visiting patients in our pediatric oncology playroom. Here he spent time playing mini-sticks, bubble hockey & video games with a handful of hockey-obsessed kids, bursting with excitement to face-off against a real OHL goalie.

Our hospitals rely on the generosity of donors to fund things like equipment and patient care items. Mason’s fundraising and monetary donation has the potential to make an impact on young patients for years to come and goes a long way in inspiring a culture of philanthropy among his peers and fans.”

– Erika Kooi (Program Manager – Pediatrics, NICU & Child Life at the Kingston Health Sciences Centre)

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH PRESENTED BY HOCKLEY VALLEY RESORT

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Academic Players of the Month for February, proudly presented by Hockley Valley Resort.

East Division –  Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)

Kingston Frontenacs goaltender Mason Vaccari is the OHL East Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Vaccari recently completed his final semester of high school with an 89 percent average at Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School, and is currently achieving high grades in University Economics and Human Development courses.

“Mason’s dedication to his studies is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence,” said Holy Cross Teacher, Mrs. Shannon Perugino. “Not only does he give everything to his assignments and daily work, but he also approaches each lesson with curiosity and empathy. Mason is constantly asking questions, engaging in conversation, and motivating classmates to share their ideas when working in groups. Despite demands from the OHL, he approaches his academics with the same level of determination and focus, setting a shining example for his peers.”

“Mason is an exemplary example of what it means to be a student athlete, and it has been a privilege to work with him at Holy Cross,” said Frontenacs Academic Advisor, Kristi LeSarge.

Selected in the fourth round (61st overall) by Kingston in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Vaughan Kings U16 program, the Mississauga, Ont. native has played to a 23-24-2-0 record this season, along with an .879 save percentage and 3.69 goals-against average. Playing in his second season with the Frontenacs, Vaccari has played to a career mark of 34-38-2-0, with a .887 save percentage and 3.63 goals-against average.

Central Division –  Nolan Laird (North Bay Battalion)

North Bay Battalion rookie forward Nolan Laird is the OHL Central Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Laird achieved an “A” average in his first semester of grade 12 studies, including an 86 percent average in Business Fundamentals, 86 percent average in World Issues, 98 percent average in Healthy and Active Living, and an 86 percent average in Career Studies. Laird is currently holding high marks in Data Management, Kinesiology, and Co-Op Education at Chippewa Secondary School.

“Nolan is an exemplary student-athlete whose drive and commitment enable him to excel both on the ice and in the classroom,” said Battalion Academic Advisor, Stephanie Silverthorn.

The 18-year-old Port Perry, Ont. product has played 24 games this season, recording a goal and an assist for the Battalion. The 6-foot-1, 180Ib. centreman was originally selected in the eighth round (145th overall) by North Bay in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Clarington Toros U16 program.

Midwest Division – Rowan Topp (Guelph Storm)

Guelph Storm defenceman Rowan Topp is the OHL Midwest Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Topp achieved excellent grades in two grade 12 university-level courses last semester, including an overall 93 percent average in Biology and Advanced Functions at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic High School.

“Rowan is the consummate student-athlete,” said Storm Academic Advisor, Colleen Driscoll. “His teachers consistently note his exceptional work habits, his conscientious approach to his studies, and his aptitude for their subject matter. Rowan’s outstanding academic achievement reflects his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.”

Selected in the third round (59th overall) by Guelph in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the North York Rangers U16 program, the 6-foot-2, 195lb. St. Anns, Ont. native has registered four assists over 52 games played in Guelph this season.

West Division – Josh Glavin (Saginaw Spirit)

Saginaw Spirit defenceman Josh Glavin is the OHL West Division Academic Player of the Month for February.

Glavin achieved outstanding grades in his first semester of grade 12 studies, including an 80 percent average in English, 82 percent average in Advanced Functions, 77 percent average in Biology, and a 99 percent average in Team Sports. Glavin is currently holding high marks in Kinesiology, Chemistry and Astronomy at Heritage High School and Northern Collegiate.

“Josh is an assiduous student with an outstanding work ethic,” said Spirit Academic Advisor, Pamela Moretuzzo. “He is scholastically gifted and very dedicated to his studies. Josh is a strong willed and driven individual which is evident in his 84% average while also attending many scholastic, athletic, and community service commitments.  Josh dedicates a great deal of time in and out of school to be successful in his academics, as he has been enrolled in university level courses. He often attends additional study sessions outside of his class hours to improve his understanding of the course material.  He is a well-rounded and conscientious student and individual.

“Josh is also committed to improving his hockey skills as a member of the Saginaw Spirit team,” Moretuzzo added. “He welcomes hockey, academic, and personal challenges and works diligently to accomplish his goals. He has outstanding sportsmanship and a positive attitude both on and off of the ice. Josh is an exceptional young man and a pleasure to know.  He is polite, responsible, honest, and hard-working.  Due to his superior work ethic and perseverance, Josh will surely succeed at any goal he sets for himself,” she added.

The 17-year-old Sarnia, Ont. product has played 31 games this season, recording four assists for the Spirit. The 6-foot-2, 190Ib. blueliner was originally selected in the third round (54th overall) by Saginaw in the 2022 OHL Priority Selection from the Lambton Jr. Sting U16 program.

2023-24 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

East Division:
February – Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)
January – Jake O’Brien (Brantford Bulldogs)
December – Carson Cameron (Peterborough Petes)
November – Charlie Hilton (Ottawa 67’s)
October – Noah Bender (Oshawa Generals)

Central Division:
February – Nolan Laird (North Bay Battalion)
January – Jaiden Newton (Barrie Colts)
December – Parker Von Richter (Mississauga Steelheads)
November – Chase Coughlan (Sudbury Wolves)
October – Ethan Czata (Niagara IceDogs)

Midwest Division:
February – Rowan Topp (Guelph Storm)
January – Matthew Schaefer (Erie Otters)
December – Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
November – Henry Brzustewicz (London Knights)
October – Matheas Stark (Kitchener Rangers)

West Division:
February – Josh Glavin (Saginaw Spirit)
January – Jacob Brown (Flint Firebirds)
December – Cole Davis (Windsor Spitfires)
November – Tate Vader (Soo Greyhounds)
October – Lukas Fischer (Sarnia Sting)

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

A total of 333 graduates utilized their OHL Scholarship at post-secondary institutions across North America during the 2022-23 academic year, with a total contribution by teams of over $3.6 million. Over the past 10 seasons, OHL Scholarship payments have totaled more than $25 million.

A total of 228 OHL Alumni were included on U SPORTS men’s hockey rosters to open the 2023-24 season.

About Hockley Valley Resort
Hockley Valley Resort is a premier year-round destination, nestled in the heart of Ontario’s scenic countryside just 45 minutes from Toronto. Offering 108 guest rooms, extensive meeting facilities, full-service spa, championship golf course, ski runs and terrain park, and 10 kilometers of mountain biking trails, the resort caters to the diverse needs of both leisure and corporate guests. With a steadfast commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and creating unforgettable memories, Hockley Valley Resort offers its guests a welcoming, natural setting, ensuring a memorable stay.

Adamo Estate Winery, sister property to Hockley Valley Resort offers a delightful escape for wine enthusiasts, featuring exceptional wines crafted with attention to detail and a picturesque vineyard setting. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings, guided tours, and special events, immersing themselves in the artistry of winemaking in this emerging wine region of Mono, Ontario.

OHL ANNOUNCES ACADEMIC PLAYERS OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2022-23 OHL Academic Players of the Month:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

HARDIE AND VACCARI NAMED OHL TOP PERFORMERS OF THE WEEK

Posted on by Dominic Tiano

Toronto, Ont. – The Ontario Hockey League today announced Top Performers of the Week for the week of regular season games ending Sunday, January 22, 2023.



Steelheads’ James Hardie Named Cogeco OHL Player of the Week

James Hardie of the Mississauga Steelheads is the Cogeco OHL Player of the Week, recording two goals, eight assists and 10 points in four games along with a plus/minus rating of plus-4.

Helping guide the Steelheads to a 3-1 showing last week, Hardie got things started with Mississauga’s lone goal in a 2-1 road loss to the Erie Otters on Monday. The Steelheads bounced back on Thursday with a 6-2 win over the Niagara IceDogs as Hardie put together the first of two consecutive four-assist outings. He registered another four assists on Friday, helping linemate Zander Veccia score his first OHL hat trick as the Steelheads defeated the Central Division-leading North Bay Battalion 5-4. Hardie contributed another goal on Sunday as the Steelheads closed out the weekend with a 5-4 win over the IceDogs on home ice. Currently riding a 10-game point streak, seven of Hardie’s eight assists last week were primary helpers.

A 21-year-old native of Innisfil, Ont., Hardie currently sits eighth in OHL points with 57 (28-29–57) through 41 games this season. His 181 shots on goal are the fourth-highest total in the League. Mississauga’s fist round (8th overall) pick in the 2018 OHL Priority Selection is the club’s all-time leading goal-scorer (118) and point producer (219) in his 230 career regular season contests. Hardie attended rookie camp with the Boston Bruins last September.

Also given consideration for the award this week were Steelheads teammate Zander Veccia who recorded five goals, four assists and nine points in four games. Edmonton Oilers prospect Matvey Petrov of the North Bay Battalion was also a standout, recording five goals and two assists over three outings.

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



Frontenacs’ Mason Vaccari Named OHL Goaltender of the Week

Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs is the OHL Goaltender of the Week, going 2-0 with a 1.64 goals-against average and .951 save percentage.

Vaccari backstopped the Frontenacs to back-to-back road wins, starting with a 45-save effort on Monday in Peterborough to earn third star recognition as the Frontenacs defeated the Petes 2-1. The rookie netminder was excellent again on Saturday, making 25 saves in a 6-2 victory over the Niagara IceDogs. Vaccari saw relief duty on Sunday afternoon in Guelph, stopping eight of nine shots as the Frontenacs fell 6-2 to the Storm.

An 18-year-old from Mississauga, Ont., Vaccari owns a 9-6-0-0 record with a 3.22 goals-against average and .906 save percentage in his first 16 games with the Frontenacs this season. The 5-foot-9, 178Ib. netminder spent last season with the OJHL’s Cobourg Cougars, going 9-7-0 with a 3.85 goals-against average and .878 save percentage in 16 games. Vaccari was Kingston’s fourth round (61st overall) pick in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection from the Vaughan Kings U16 program.

Kitchener Rangers netminder Marco Costantini was also given consideration for the award, recording two wins, a 2.00 goals-against average and .944 save percentage in victories over Ottawa and London last week.

2022-23 OHL Goaltenders of the Week – Regular Season:
Jan 16 – Jan. 22: Mason Vaccari (Kingston Frontenacs)
Jan 9. – Jan. 15: Matteo Drobac (Hamilton Bulldogs)
Jan. 2 – Jan. 8: Max Donoso (Ottawa 67’s)
Dec. 26 – Jan. 1: Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes)
Dec. 12 – Dec. 18: Marco Costantini (Kitchener Rangers)
Dec. 5 – Dec. 11: Owen Flores (Niagara IceDogs)
Nov. 28 – Dec. 4: Dom DiVincentiis (North Bay Battalion)
Nov. 21 – Nov. 27: Brett Brochu (London Knights)
Nov. 14 – Nov. 20: Michael Simpson (Peterborough Petes)
Nov. 7 – Nov. 13: Joe Ranger (Sudbury Wolves)
Oct. 31 – Nov. 6: Tristan Lennox (Saginaw Spirit)
Oct. 24 – Oct. 30: Carter George (Owen Sound Attack)
Oct. 17 – Oct. 23: Collin MacKenzie (Ottawa 67’s)
Oct. 10 – Oct. 16: Ivan Zhigalov (Kingston Frontenacs)
Oct. 3 – Oct. 9: Alessio Beglieri (Mississauga Steelheads)
Sept. 29 – Oct. 2: Ben Gaudreau (Sarnia Sting)


About the Ontario Hockey League
The Ontario Hockey League is a proud member of the Canadian Hockey League which is the world’s largest development hockey league with 60 teams in nine Canadian provinces and four American states. In addition to the OHL, the CHL is made up of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League. The CHL supplies more players to the National Hockey League and U SPORTS than any other league.

OHL Writers Draft Eligible Player of the Month for October

Posted on by Dominic Tiano
Ryan Abraham of the Windsor Spitfires. Photo by Natalie Shaver/OHL Images

Because COVID cancelled the entire 2020-2021 season meaning a large number of Ontario Hockey League players were about to go into the 2022 National Hockey League Entry Draft as draft re-entries, we did things a little differently here at OHL Writers.

In years past, we always name our Draft Eligible Player of the Month. But because of the sheer number of players eligible last season, we decided that would name a draft eligible forward, defencemen and goaltender. Many of you had written to us to let us know you preferred it that way and asking us to keep it the same going forward. So, here we are doing just that!

Of course, this is the first full month of the season, so this is our first list of the season. Here we go:

Draft Eligible Forward of the Month: Ryan Abraham – Windsor Spitfires

Windsor Spitfires center Ryan Abraham is a draft re-entry who had a phenomenal month of October. His 18 points in 12 games (6 goals, 12 helpers) led all draft eligible players and third best in the OHL. The 5’8”, 168-pound pivot had 6 multi point games, including 5-consecutive to close out the month. His 58.2% in the faceoff circle was second among draft eligible players.

Also considered was Saginaw Spirit forward Calem Mongone. Through 13 games, Mongone has 4 goals and 12 assists. His 16 points ranks him third among Spirit players in scoring and second among draft eligible players.

Draft Eligible Defenceman of the Month: Hunter Brzustewicz – Kitchener Rangers

On defence we chose none other than Hunter Brzustewicz of the Kitchener Rangers. Despite not scoring a goal, his prowess with setting up his teammates set him apart with 13 points (all assists of course) in just 11 games. That’s tops for draft eligible defencemen and third in the entire league among all defencemen. The 6-foot 188-pound blueliner is second in scoring on his squad as well.

Also considered was Chas Sharpe of the Mississauga Steelheads. Sharpe had 2 goals and 9 assists in 12 games in October and trails only Brzustewicz in points among draft eligible defencemen.

Draft Eligible Goaltender of the Month: Collin MacKenzie – Ottawa 67’s

This was not an easy choice, but we chose Collin MacKenzie because he has a perfect 4-0-0 record and led all draft eligible goaltenders with a 1.36 goals-against-average and .942 save percentage. I will agree playing on an Ottawa team that looks unbeatable for now has helped in terms of number of pucks he has faced and the quality of shots, he has also looked the part.

Also considered was Mason Vaccari of the Kingston Frontenacs who posted a 3-0-0 record to go along with a 2.00 goals-against-average and .935 save percentage.