NEWS

Defenceman Ian Blacker of the Oakville Blades and netminder Jacob McGrath of the St. Michael's Buzzers have been named members of one of the Team Canada representatives that will take part in the 2015 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge being played October 30-November 7 in Dawson Creek & Fort St. John, B.C.

The pair become the first players in two years, since Blacker's older brother Ben played Team Ontario, to represent the OJHL at the event, as well as just the 10th and 11th OJHL players since 2000 to play in the tournament.  This also marks the first time since 2008 that the OJHL has had two players in the same year.  The 2008 Under-17 tournament saw Brett Cook of the Huntsville Otters and Ethan Werek of the Stouffville Spirit participate.

Ian Blacker (D) - Oakville Blades
(pictured left - photo credit: Kevin Sousa/OJHL Images)
The 16-year old native of Oakville, Ontario joins his hometown Blades this season out of the Brampton 45's Minor Midget 'AAA' program, where he had a successful 2014-15 season that saw him as alternate captain of Team Ontario at the Canada Winter Games, helping his province capture the gold medal.  Earlier this past spring, Blacker confirmed his commitment to join his brother Ben as a member of the Western Michigan University Broncos, beginning with the 2017-18 NCHC season.  This past summer, Blacker was selected by the London Knights in the 4th round, 70th overall, of the 2015 OHL Priority Selection, but chose to keep his NCAA option available by joining the Blades.  He has recorded a single assist during the club's first 12 games of the season.

Jacob McGrath (G) - St. Michael's Buzzers
(pictured right - photo credit:  Anna Matthews/OJHL Images)
The 16-year old native of Mississauga, Ontario joins the Buzzers this season after a championship-filled season with the Toronto Marlboros Minor Midget 'AAA' squad in 2014-15.  McGrath posted impressive numbers from start to finish in leading the Marlies to both a GTHL title and the prestigious OHL Cup title.  Following the season, McGrath would lead Team GTHL Blue to the OHL Gold Cup championship and he was selected by the Sudbury Wolves in the 8th round, 142nd overall, of the 2015 OHL Priority Selection.  McGrath has continued his impressive play during an early OJHL debut, posting a 2-2-1 record thus far with a 2.60 goals against average and a .926 save percentage.

Congratulations to Ian and Jacob and we look forward to watching both represent Team Canada at the end of the month!

For the full World Under-17 Hockey Challenge Team Canada roster(s), please CLICK HERE.