Hockey dreams took a major stride forward on the weekend as Ontario Minor Hockey Association players were chosen in the Ontario Hockey League’s Priority Selection, including four in the first round.

The OMHA had 68 players selected from 16 teams. The Quinte Red Devils led the way with 13 players chosen. The Ajax-Pickering Raiders, Niagara North Stars and York-Simcoe Express each had seven players drafted, followed by the North Central Predators (6) and Markham Waxers (5).

The draft was completed over two days, with the first three rounds on Friday evening and rounds four to fifteen taking place on Saturday morning.

Player development is a key component of the OMHA experience. The OMHA conducts a wide range of clinics for players, coaches and other volunteers to improve their skills and enhance their overall experience and enjoyment of the sport. OMHA boasts a long list of grads who earned their place in the NHL including up and coming names like Quinton Byfield, Connor McMichael and Cole Perfetti.

One of the best skating defencemen seen at this age. His elusiveness and edge work are exceptional, his mobility and lateral movement make the game seem so easy for him. He controls and generates most of his team’s offence from the blue line. Danford’s vision and playmaking are elite. He isn’t overly physical, but defends well with his stick and body positioning. He is a top-end prospect and will make an impact at the next level.

A highly skilled centre that drives his team offensively. He is a dynamic skater that has great edge work and acceleration in open ice. His puck skills allow him to beat defenders off the rush and create chances for his teammates with his playmaking ability. He has played numerous games at the Junior B level and has found ways to produce there. Testa has all the tools to be an elite offensive player at the next level.

A skilled winger/centre that plays a heavy game and plays the right way. He is a good skater that has good top-end speed, and is consistently the best player on his team by a wide margin. He can be very hard to handle off the rush, and has a long reach that allows him to protect the puck well. Uses his body well in all three zones to protect the puck which makes him very hard to contain. He has all the tools to step in and make an impact at the next level.

One of the top players in the ETA this season. Very smart in his positioning and risk taking, Marrelli understands when he can go and when to just lay back. He is a quick and elusive skater and can beat forecheckers with his feet and makes very good outlet passes. He’s not the biggest defender but he will lay it all out to make plays to help his team win games. He’s the leader of his team and is the type of player most coaches and teams would love to have patrolling their blue line.