Uncovering the Mystery: What does OHL Stand for in Hockey?

The Ontario Hockey League, better known as OHL, is one of the most popular and respected junior ice hockey leagues in North America. With a history spanning over 80 years, OHL has become a breeding ground for future NHL stars, including some of the biggest names in hockey today. However, many fans new to the sport may find themselves asking, “What does OHL stand for in hockey?” In this article, we aim to uncover the mystery behind the acronym.

The OHL is a major junior hockey league, which consists of 20 teams, including 17 from Ontario, 2 from Michigan, and 1 from Pennsylvania. It’s one of the three Canadian Hockey League (CHL) leagues that develop players for the National Hockey League (NHL). OHL players are typically aged between 16 and 21 and are considered some of the most talented young hockey players in the world.

In this article, we will explore the history of the OHL, discuss how it differs from the NHL, highlight some of the league’s most popular teams, and showcase some of the notable alumni who have gone on to achieve great things in the world of hockey.

Whether you’re a seasoned hockey fan or new to the sport, this article is sure to provide you with fascinating insights into the OHL. So, let’s dive into the world of junior ice hockey and explore the magic behind the OHL.

What is OHL?

If you’re a hockey fan, you might have heard of the term OHL, which stands for Ontario Hockey League. The OHL is one of the most prestigious junior hockey leagues in the world, featuring some of the best young players from Canada and the United States.

Founded in 1933, the OHL is one of the oldest and most historic leagues in North America, and has played a crucial role in developing young hockey talent for decades. The league is made up of 20 teams spread across Ontario, and is split into two conferences – the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference.

Players in the OHL range in age from 16 to 21, and the league serves as a major stepping stone for players looking to make it to the National Hockey League (NHL). In fact, many current NHL stars got their start in the OHL, including Connor McDavid, John Tavares, and Steven Stamkos.

The OHL has a reputation for being a highly competitive and intense league, where players are pushed to their limits both physically and mentally. With a schedule that includes more than 60 games per season, as well as playoffs and other special events, the league is a major force in the world of junior hockey.

The basics of OHL

• Age eligibility: The OHL is a major junior hockey league in Canada, and it’s open to players aged 16 to 21 years.
• Team structure: The league consists of 20 teams that are divided into two conferences: the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference.
• Game format: OHL games consist of three 20-minute periods, with a 15-minute intermission between the second and third periods. If a game is tied after regulation time, a five-minute sudden-death overtime period is played, and a shootout is held if no goals are scored during overtime.

The OHL is known for its high level of competition, and many of its players go on to have successful careers in the NHL. However, the league also places a strong emphasis on education, with many players going on to pursue post-secondary studies while playing in the OHL.

How OHL fits into the larger hockey ecosystem

The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is one of three major junior hockey leagues in Canada, along with the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and Western Hockey League (WHL). These leagues are all members of the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), which serves as a development platform for young players aspiring to play professionally.

Players in the OHL range in age from 16 to 21 and are typically drafted into the league as teenagers after playing in lower-level leagues. The OHL’s focus on developing young players for the next level makes it an important part of the larger hockey ecosystem, with many OHL players going on to play in the National Hockey League (NHL) or other professional leagues around the world.

The OHL also serves as a key talent pool for international hockey tournaments, such as the World Junior Championships, where many OHL players represent their respective countries. In addition, the league has strong ties to the United States Hockey League (USHL), which is a top junior league in the United States.

Despite being a junior league, the OHL has a significant impact on the larger hockey world and is an important stepping stone for players looking to make their mark on the sport.

History of OHL

Early beginnings: The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) was originally founded in 1933 as the Ontario Hockey Association Junior A League. It was the successor to the Ontario Hockey Association’s Junior B series, which had been in operation since 1929.

Growing pains: Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the OHL continued to expand, adding teams and divisions. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the league really started to hit its stride and establish itself as a major player in Canadian hockey.

The modern era: Since the 1980s, the OHL has continued to thrive, both in terms of popularity and player development. It has produced numerous NHL stars and has established itself as one of the top junior hockey leagues in the world.

Milestones: Over the course of its history, the OHL has been the site of many memorable moments and milestones, including the league’s first-ever outdoor game in 2019, which drew more than 25,000 fans to a game between the Ottawa 67’s and the Gatineau Olympiques.

The future: With a long and storied history behind it, the OHL looks poised to continue its growth and development in the years to come, providing a platform for young hockey players to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams of playing at the highest levels of the sport.

The founding of OHL

Ontario Hockey Association was the governing body of junior hockey in Ontario in the early 1900s. In 1933, it formed the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL). But by the 1970s, it was clear that the league needed a revamp.

Enter OHL – in 1974, the Ontario Hockey League was formed by five teams breaking away from the OJHL. The original teams were the Ottawa 67’s, London Knights, Kitchener Rangers, Peterborough Petes, and Hamilton Fincups.

Growth and expansion – OHL quickly grew in popularity, and by the end of the 1970s, there were 14 teams in the league. Expansion continued in the 1980s, and by the end of the decade, there were 20 teams in the league. Today, the OHL has 20 teams divided into two conferences – Eastern and Western.

Changes and challenges – over the years, OHL has seen its share of changes and challenges. In 2002, the league instituted a salary cap to ensure parity among the teams. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused the cancellation of the OHL playoffs and the entire 2020-2021 season.

Legacy – despite the challenges, OHL has remained one of the top junior hockey leagues in North America. It has produced countless NHL stars and helped shape the careers of many others. The league’s legacy continues to grow with each passing season.

Major milestones in the history of OHL

Expansion: The league saw significant growth in the 1970s and 1980s, expanding from just eight teams to 20 teams by the mid-1980s. Today, the league has 20 teams, 17 in Ontario and three in the United States.

Memorial Cup: The OHL is one of the three leagues that compete for the Memorial Cup, which is awarded annually to the top junior hockey team in Canada. OHL teams have won the Cup 13 times, with the Oshawa Generals winning the most recent championship in 2015.

Notable players: Over the years, the OHL has produced many notable NHL players, including Wayne Gretzky, Bobby Orr, Eric Lindros, and John Tavares. The league has also produced several current NHL stars, including Connor McDavid, Mitch Marner, and Auston Matthews.

Rule changes: In recent years, the OHL has implemented new rules aimed at increasing player safety and reducing head injuries. These changes include stricter penalties for hits to the head and limits on fighting.

Overall, the OHL has a rich history of growth and development, and its influence on the sport of hockey extends far beyond the boundaries of Ontario. The league’s commitment to player safety and development continues to make it a popular destination for aspiring young players.

How is OHL different from NHL?

OHL and NHL: Both leagues share a love of hockey, but there are several key differences between the two. The biggest difference is the level of play: NHL is the top professional league in the world, while OHL is a major junior league that prepares players for the next level.

Rules: There are some differences in the rules as well. OHL has a stricter enforcement of fighting rules and a “no-touch” icing rule, while NHL has a hybrid icing rule and a higher tolerance for fighting. OHL also has a different playoff format than NHL.

Development focus: Another major difference is the focus on player development. OHL places a strong emphasis on developing young players, with education and skill development programs. NHL also has development programs, but they are more focused on players who are already highly skilled and preparing them for the professional level.

Understanding the differences between OHL and NHL can help you appreciate both leagues and the unique contributions they make to the world of hockey. Whether you are a fan of the fast-paced action of the NHL or the youthful energy of the OHL, there is something for everyone in the world of hockey.

The main differences between OHL and NHL

Rules: While the OHL follows most of the same rules as the NHL, there are some differences, such as no touch icing and stricter enforcement of fighting penalties.

Age and eligibility: The OHL is a junior league for players aged 16-20, while the NHL is a professional league for players aged 18 and older. OHL players must also meet certain eligibility criteria based on nationality and previous playing experience.

Level of play: As a developmental league, the OHL is generally considered a lower level of play than the NHL. However, the level of competition can still be high, and many OHL players go on to have successful careers in professional hockey.

Popular teams in OHL

London Knights: The London Knights are one of the most successful and popular teams in OHL history. They have won four OHL championships and two Memorial Cup championships.

Ottawa 67’s: The Ottawa 67’s have a long and storied history in the OHL, having been around since the league’s inception in 196They have won four OHL championships and two Memorial Cup championships.

Kitchener Rangers: The Kitchener Rangers are another popular team in the OHL, having won four OHL championships and two Memorial Cup championships.

Windsor Spitfires: The Windsor Spitfires have won three Memorial Cup championships and have produced many NHL players, including Taylor Hall and Ryan Ellis.

Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds: The Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds have a rich history in the OHL, having been around since the league’s inception in 196They have won three OHL championships and two Memorial Cup championships.

A closer look at the most popular OHL teams

If you’re a fan of hockey, then you’ve likely heard of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). This league is home to many talented young players who are looking to make a name for themselves in the world of professional hockey. But which teams in the OHL are the most popular? Let’s take a closer look.

London Knights: The London Knights are one of the most successful teams in the OHL. They have won the Memorial Cup three times and have produced many talented players over the years, including Patrick Kane and Corey Perry.

Windsor Spitfires: The Windsor Spitfires are another popular team in the OHL. They have won the Memorial Cup twice and have a passionate fan base. They are also known for producing NHL players such as Taylor Hall and Ryan Ellis.

Kingston Frontenacs: The Kingston Frontenacs may not have as much success as the London Knights or Windsor Spitfires, but they still have a dedicated fan base. They have produced many talented players over the years, including Doug Gilmour and Kirk Muller.

Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds: The Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds have a storied history in the OHL. They have won the Memorial Cup three times and have produced many NHL players, including Joe Thornton and Craig Hartsburg.

Kitchener Rangers: The Kitchener Rangers have a passionate fan base and have had success in the OHL. They have won the Memorial Cup four times and have produced many NHL players, including Al MacInnis and Mike Richards.

These are just a few of the most popular teams in the OHL. Whether you’re a fan of the London Knights or the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, there’s no denying that the OHL is home to some of the most talented young players in the world.

Notable OHL alumni

The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has produced many talented players over the years, some of whom have gone on to have successful careers in the National Hockey League (NHL). Here are just a few of the most notable OHL alumni:

Wayne Gretzky: Wayne Gretzky is widely considered to be the greatest hockey player of all time. He played for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in the OHL before being drafted into the NHL.

Bobby Orr: Bobby Orr is another legendary player who got his start in the OHL. He played for the Oshawa Generals before being drafted by the Boston Bruins.

Eric Lindros: Eric Lindros was one of the most dominant players in the OHL during his time with the Oshawa Generals. He went on to have a successful career in the NHL, playing for teams such as the Philadelphia Flyers and the New York Rangers.

These are just a few examples of the many talented players who got their start in the OHL. Other notable OHL alumni include Doug Gilmour, Wayne Simmonds, and John Tavares. It’s clear that the OHL has played an important role in developing some of the greatest hockey players of all time.

Top NHL players who started in OHL

1. Alex DeBrincat: DeBrincat was drafted 39th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Erie Otters for three seasons from 2014-2017, where he recorded an impressive 332 points in just 191 games. DeBrincat was named OHL player of the year in the 2016-2017 season, and has since become a key player for the Blackhawks, earning NHL All-Rookie Team honors in 2018.

2. John Tavares: Tavares was drafted first overall by the New York Islanders in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Oshawa Generals from 2005-2009, where he recorded 383 points in 247 games. Tavares was named the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player for two consecutive years and won the CHL Player of the Year Award in 2007 and 200He has since played for the Islanders, Toronto Maple Leafs, and now the Montreal Canadiens.

3. Connor McDavid: McDavid was drafted first overall by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Erie Otters for three seasons from 2012-2015, where he recorded a remarkable 285 points in just 166 games. McDavid was named OHL player of the year twice, and CHL player of the year in the 2014-2015 season. He has since become one of the most dominant players in the NHL, earning the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league’s MVP in 2017 and 2021.

4. Steven Stamkos: Stamkos was drafted first overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Sarnia Sting from 2006-2008, where he recorded 197 points in just 124 games. Stamkos was named the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player in his final season, and has since become one of the most prolific scorers in the NHL, earning the Rocket Richard Trophy as the league’s leading goal scorer in both 2010 and 2012.

5. Eric Lindros: Lindros was drafted first overall by the Quebec Nordiques in the 1991 NHL Entry Draft. He played for the Oshawa Generals from 1989-1992, where he recorded an impressive 319 points in just 157 games. Lindros was named the OHL’s Most Outstanding Player for two consecutive years and won the CHL Player of the Year Award in 1990 and 199He went on to have a successful NHL career, earning the Hart Trophy as the league’s MVP in 1995 and being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2016.

Famous non-NHL athletes who started in OHL

The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is one of the three major junior hockey leagues that make up the Canadian Hockey League (CHL). The league is known for producing some of the most talented players in the world of ice hockey. However, not all players who start in the OHL go on to play in the NHL. In fact, some of the most famous non-NHL athletes started their careers in the OHL. Here are some examples of those who went on to achieve success in other sports:

1. Wayne Gretzky

   Yes, you read that right. The greatest hockey player of all time actually started his junior career in the OHL with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Gretzky played just a single season in the OHL before moving on to the NHL, but he still managed to make a significant impact. In just 70 games, he scored an incredible 182 points, setting a league record that still stands today.

2. Bo Jackson

   Bo Jackson is a legendary athlete who played both professional football and baseball. Before he achieved fame in either of those sports, however, he played junior hockey in the OHL for the Windsor Spitfires. Jackson was a standout player on the ice, using his speed and athleticism to make a name for himself. Ultimately, he decided to focus on football and baseball, but his time in the OHL helped him develop the skills that would make him a star in other sports.

3. Bob Probert

   Bob Probert was known as an enforcer during his time in the NHL, but before he made it to the big leagues, he played junior hockey in the OHL for the Brantford Alexanders. Probert was a tough player on the ice, racking up a whopping 405 penalty minutes in just 50 games during his final season in the OHL. He went on to have a successful career in the NHL, becoming one of the most feared fighters in the league.

4. Rick Tocchet

   Rick Tocchet is another former NHL player who got his start in the OHL. He played for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, where he developed a reputation as a hard-nosed player who wasn’t afraid to mix it up. Tocchet went on to have a successful career in the NHL, playing for several teams over the course of more than 1,100 games.

5. Greg DeGagne

   Greg DeGagne is a former professional lacrosse player who got his start in the OHL with the Cornwall Royals. He played just two seasons in the league before moving on to lacrosse, where he became one of the sport’s best players. DeGagne played for several teams over the course of his career, earning multiple All-Star nods and setting numerous records.

These are just a few examples of the many non-NHL athletes who got their start in the OHL. The league has a long history of producing talented players who go on to achieve success in other sports, and it will continue to be a breeding ground for future stars for years to come.

How to get involved with OHL?

If you are a hockey enthusiast, the Ontario Hockey League is an excellent platform for you to showcase your talents. Here are four ways you can get involved with the OHL:

Attend games: One of the best ways to get involved with OHL is to attend games. Not only is it a fun way to spend an evening, but you’ll also get to see some of the best young players in Canada compete at a high level.

Volunteer: Volunteering is an excellent way to get involved with the OHL. There are a variety of roles available, from working at the arena on game day to helping with team events and community outreach programs.

Tryouts: If you are a talented hockey player looking to take your game to the next level, trying out for an OHL team may be the perfect opportunity for you. OHL teams hold open tryouts throughout the year, and the best players are offered a spot on the team.

Become a sponsor: Another way to get involved with the OHL is to become a sponsor. Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels, and they offer a fantastic way to support young athletes and promote your business at the same time.

The OHL is an exciting and competitive league that offers a range of opportunities for players, fans, and supporters alike. By attending games, volunteering, trying out, or becoming a sponsor, you can get involved with this excellent organization and be a part of the action.

Becoming a player in OHL

If you have a dream of becoming a professional ice hockey player, joining the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) can be an excellent stepping stone. Here are three things you should know about becoming an OHL player:

Eligibility: To be eligible to play in the OHL, you must be between the ages of 16 and 2Additionally, you must have played a certain number of games in the minor leagues, which varies depending on where you’re from.

Attend open tryouts: Many OHL teams hold open tryouts, which allow aspiring players to showcase their skills in front of scouts and coaches. Check your local OHL team’s website to see if they offer any tryouts.

Get scouted: OHL scouts are always on the lookout for promising young players. Make sure you attend as many games and tournaments as possible to increase your chances of being scouted.

Other ways to get involved with OHL

Volunteering: If you’re passionate about hockey and want to contribute to the community, volunteering is a great way to get involved with the OHL. You can assist in various roles such as team operations, event management, and game-day operations. Check with your local OHL team to see if they have any volunteer opportunities available.

Internships: If you’re a college student looking to gain experience in sports management, the OHL offers internships in various departments. You can gain hands-on experience in areas such as marketing, communications, and game-day operations. Visit the OHL website to learn more about internship opportunities.

Officiating: The OHL also offers officiating programs for those interested in becoming referees or linesmen. You can start by attending a local officiating clinic to learn the rules and gain experience. From there, you can progress to officiating games at the minor hockey level and work your way up to the OHL.

Billeting: OHL players who are under the age of 18 require a billet family to live with during the hockey season. If you’re interested in becoming a billet family, you can contact your local OHL team to see if they have any openings. This is a great way to support young athletes while experiencing the excitement of junior hockey.

How to watch OHL games

If you are a die-hard OHL fan, you don’t want to miss a single game. Thankfully, there are several ways to watch the games.

Cable TV: Many OHL games are broadcasted live on cable TV channels such as Sportsnet and TSN. Check your local listings for game schedules and channels.

Streaming services: You can also stream OHL games online through services like OHL Live and Sportsnet Now. These services offer live and on-demand streaming of all OHL games, so you can watch from anywhere with an internet connection.

In-person: Of course, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the excitement of an OHL game in person. Check out the OHL website for schedules, ticket information, and venues near you.

Social media: Another way to stay connected to OHL games is through social media. Follow OHL teams on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to get live updates, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content.

Watching OHL games is a great way to stay connected to the sport and support your favorite teams. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy the excitement of OHL hockey.

Future of OHL

Expansion: The OHL has been considering expansion for some time now, and there are several cities that have expressed interest in hosting a team. Expansion would provide more opportunities for young players to develop their skills and potentially increase the league’s revenue.

Incorporating new technology: The use of technology in sports is constantly evolving, and the OHL has been keeping up with the latest advancements. The league has implemented video review for goal calls and offside rulings, and there are talks of introducing other technologies to improve player safety and enhance the fan experience.

Challenges to overcome: Like any organization, the OHL faces its fair share of challenges. One of the biggest issues the league is currently dealing with is player recruitment, as some top prospects are choosing to play in other leagues. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has presented various obstacles for the league to navigate, such as scheduling and travel restrictions.

Continued growth and success: Despite the challenges, the OHL remains committed to growing the sport and providing a high-quality hockey experience for players and fans alike. The league has a rich history and a bright future, with many talented young players continuing to emerge from its ranks and make their mark in the NHL and beyond.

The challenges facing OHL

Declining attendance: One of the biggest challenges facing the OHL is declining attendance at games. With more people opting to stay home and watch games on TV or online, OHL teams have been struggling to attract fans to the arenas.

Player safety: In recent years, there has been a growing concern about player safety in hockey, particularly at the junior level. The OHL has been taking steps to improve player safety, including implementing new rules to reduce head injuries and increasing penalties for dangerous hits.

Financial sustainability: The OHL is facing financial challenges as well, with many teams struggling to make ends meet. Rising player salaries and other costs have put pressure on team budgets, and some teams have had to fold or move to new cities in order to survive.

• Competition from other sports: Hockey is not the only game in town, and the OHL faces stiff competition from other sports for fans and media attention. With the rise of sports like soccer and basketball in Canada, the OHL must work hard to stay relevant and attract new fans.
• Recruiting challenges: The OHL must also compete with other leagues and organizations for top talent, making it increasingly difficult to attract the best players to their teams.
• COVID-19 pandemic: Like many other sports leagues, the OHL has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2020-2021 season was cancelled entirely, and the league is still facing uncertainty as it tries to navigate the ongoing pandemic and its effects on the sport.

Despite these challenges, the OHL remains a beloved and important part of the Canadian sports landscape. With its rich history and tradition, and a dedicated fan base, there is no doubt that the OHL will continue to play an important role in hockey and in the communities where it is played.

Possible future developments for OHL

Expansion: Expanding the number of teams in the league is a possibility for the future. This would increase revenue, create more jobs, and give more players an opportunity to play in the OHL.

Enhanced technology: Improved technology could enhance the viewing experience for fans, including better streaming services and high-quality video production. This would also allow for more accurate player analytics and advanced statistics, which could further enhance player development and scouting.

Increased diversity and inclusion: The OHL could take steps to increase diversity and inclusion within the league, including hiring more women and people of color in coaching and management positions, as well as creating programs to encourage underrepresented groups to participate in hockey.

Collaboration with other leagues: The OHL could explore collaborations with other leagues, such as the NHL and other junior leagues, to increase exposure and revenue. This could include cross-promotion, joint events, or even a shared player development system.

Frequently Asked Questions