As the puck drops on the 2025-26 Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL) season, two teams are looking to make their mark. The Soo Thunderbirds, the league’s most dominant franchise of the last two decades, are aiming to reclaim their championship title, while the French River Rapids are on a mission to secure a spot in the playoffs after a number of tough seasons.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect from both teams:
Soo Thunderbirds
After finishing sixth last season, the Thunderbirds are hungry to return to their winning ways. Their home opener is set for Friday, September 26, against the Timmins Rock at the John Rhodes Community Centre.
Key Players to Watch
- Callum McAuley (Centre): An “electric player” who nearly averaged a point per game last season and is expected to step into a key leadership role.
- James Legler (Right Wing): The veteran presence on the team, known for his “tremendous mind for the game” and strong chemistry with McAuley.
- Carter Carriere (Defence): A talented young defenseman who joined the team mid-season and is primed to be a key offensive leader on the back end.
New Additions
- Gavin Killoran (Forward): A hometown standout from the Soo Jr. Greyhounds U18 team, expected to make a big impact with his size and speed.
- Brayden Gosselin (Defence): A physical, stay-at-home defenceman from British Columbia who will be a force on the blue line.
- Brady Real (Defence): A Sault Ste. Marie native and OHL draft pick who the team will rely on as the season progresses.
French River Rapids
After a 10th-place finish last season, the Rapids are determined to climb the standings and earn a spot in the postseason. They’ll start the year with a six-game homestand, kicking off with their home opener on Saturday, September 20, against the Greater Sudbury Cubs at the Noelville Arena.
Key Players to Watch
- Ralph Coulis (Defence): The team captain is back for his third season and is coming off a career-best year. He is expected to be one of the top defensemen in the league.
- Joey Stiles (Forward & Defence): A versatile and aggressive two-way player who the coaching staff believes will take his game to the next level this season.
- Bryson Villenueve (Forward): One of the youngest players in the NOJHL, this local forward had a solid rookie season and is expected to have a breakout year.
New Additions
- Matis Bureau-Morel & Keiran Caughran (Goaltenders): A new tandem in net, with the coaching staff hoping their combined experience will provide a “marked improvement” for the team.
- Armando Rojo Bolton (Forward): An exciting forward with size and speed, coming from the GOJHL, who coaches are expecting to have a breakout season.
Some of the above material has been previously published by NOJHL.com.