History of the QMJHL
One of the Three Major Junior Leagues of the CHL
The QMJHL, or Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, is one of Canada’s premier development leagues for elite players aged 16–20. Along with the OHL and WHL, it forms the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), the top tier of junior hockey in the world.
Since its creation, the QMJHL has produced hundreds of NHL players, Hall of Famers, Memorial Cup champions, and international stars.
Origins & Formation (1969)
The QMJHL was established in 1969 through the merger of teams from two Quebec junior leagues:
- The Quebec Junior Hockey League
- The Metropolitan Montreal Junior Hockey League
The new league started with 11 teams, mostly located around Montreal.
By 1972, the league expanded into the Maritimes and eliminated its Montreal-based minor teams to focus on elite junior development.
This shift positioned the QMJHL as a true major junior league equal to the OHL and WHL.
Expansion Across Quebec & the Maritimes (1970s–1980s)
During the 1970s and early 1980s, the QMJHL grew significantly:
- Strong community-based franchises took root in places like Sherbrooke, Hull (Gatineau), Quebec City, Chicoutimi, and Shawinigan.
- The league became known for its high-scoring, offensive style, setting the stage for many legendary players.
The QMJHL captured its first Memorial Cup championships during this era, showcasing its national strength.
Rise of Superstars & NHL Talent (1980s–2000s)
The QMJHL rapidly became a powerhouse for generating elite talent.
Hall of Famers and superstars who played in the league include:
- Mario Lemieux (Laval Voisins)
- Pat Lafontaine (Verdun Juniors)
- Ray Bourque (Verdun Éperviers)
- Luc Robitaille (Hull Olympiques)
- Vincent Lecavalier (Rimouski Océanic)
- Brad Richards (Rimouski Océanic)
- Sidney Crosby (Rimouski Océanic)
The 2000s brought national dominance, with Rimouski, Gatineau, and Halifax becoming household names across Canada.
Modern Era (2010s–Present)
The QMJHL today includes 18 teams across:
- Quebec
- New Brunswick
- Nova Scotia
- Prince Edward Island
The league remains known for:
A Player-First Development Model
- Academic support
- NHL-style coaching
- Advanced analytics
- A strong player welfare program
Consistent National Success
Recent QMJHL teams have been among the best in the CHL:
- 2013 Halifax Mooseheads – Memorial Cup Champions
- 2016 Rouyn-Noranda Huskies – Finalist
- 2018 Acadie-Bathurst Titan – Memorial Cup Champions
- 2019 Rouyn-Noranda Huskies – Memorial Cup Champions
- 2023 Québec Remparts – Memorial Cup Champions
The league continues to produce top NHL Draft picks every year.
Today
The QMJHL is known for its fast, skilled, high-scoring style, and remains one of the premier destinations for elite athletes pursuing:
- NHL careers
- Professional opportunities around the world
- CHL scholarships
- Education through QMJHL academic programs
With more than 50 years of history, the QMJHL stands as one of the most influential and successful junior hockey leagues in the world.
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Your Easy Guide to Hockey Tournaments Across North America
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