Open Borders on the Ice this Season With hockey season around the corner, minor hockey teams and the fans that support them may see some interesting changes in who’s playing on what team this year. Last December, the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) announced transformational changes to its Player Movement Regulations. Specifically, they removed the catchment borders dictating on which team a player could play. For example, a child living in Strathroy could not play for the Mount Brydges Cougars. According to the OHF website, these residency rules–that is, play where you live—have been in place for decades, and in many cases, date back to the inception of minor hockey in Ontario. This change now lets families choose where they want their child to play hockey. One hockey mom whose son plays for the Mount Brydges Cougars is excited about what this means for the game. “Hopefully, Komoka Kings Reload for 2025-26 Komoka Kings 2025-2026 hockey is underway with preseason games that started on August 16. The Kings have undergone a significant overhaul in their hockey operations, introducing a new coaching staff and a mix of returning players and new recruits. Adam Simpson has been added as an Assistant General Manager, and Johnny Warren as Head Coach. Simpson has several years of experience both behind the bench and in talent evaluation. Most recently, as an Assistant Coach with the Elgin-Middlesex Canucks U18 team. He is also a scout for the Saginaw Spirit of the OHL. Johnny Warren comes as a former player in the GOJHL as well as with the London Knights and St. John Sea Dogs. Last year, he was the head coach of the U16AAA Elgin-Middlesex Canucks. Joining Warren behind the bench are Rich Brown and Bob White. Brian McAllister is continuing with the team as the Hockey Operations Assistant. An avid group of players are at the Kings' training camp as they get ready for the new season. There are key players from last year's team who are returning, plus several newcomers. Returnees include Jagan Chanderdat from London, Komoka's Ben Funston, Riley Alexander from Ilderton, Alexander Akena from London, Trent Walker from London, Nathaniel Adams from
organizations will focus more on development and coaching to retain and attract players, which will result in the strengthening of many of the OHF teams, including the Cougars.” Open Borders will transform the face of minor hockey, and undoubtedly, the hockey landscape will be smooth skating for youth hockey in our community. Ajax, Nathan Gaitens from Tillsonburg, and Shayne Neusteter from Alymer. There are quite a few new talented players joining the Komoka Kings for the 2025-2026 season. Also joining the Kings organization is Jamie Rogers as Marketing Coordinator. Jamie, a native of Middlesex Centre, will oversee all marketing, sponsorship, and partnership aspects for the Komoka Kings. The GOJHL regular season starts in mid-September with the Komoka Kings Home Opener on Saturday, September 13, when the Waterloo Siskins come to town. Other games in September are Elmira Sugar Kings on September 20 and local rival St. Thomas Stars on the 27th. Home games are at the Komoka Wellness Centre at 7:15 pm.
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