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CCHL – Central Canada Hockey League

History of the CCHL

The Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) is one of Canada’s most respected Junior A Hockey leagues, known for producing NCAA, U SPORTS, and professional players for over six decades. Its blend of elite development, community-driven organizations, and strong coaching traditions has made it a significant pathway for student-athletes across Ontario and beyond.

Origins (1961–1970s)

  • The league was founded in 1961 as the Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League (EOJHL) before adopting the CCHL name.
  • From the start, the league positioned itself as a competitive stepping stone between minor Hockey and major junior.
  • Early clubs like the Smiths Falls Bears, Ottawa Jr. Senators, and Pembroke Lumber Kings helped establish the league’s identity.

Expansion and Stability (1980s–1990s)

  • The CCHL became one of Canada’s strongest Tier II leagues during the 1980s and 1990s.
  • More teams, better facilities, and improved structure helped strengthen its reputation.
  • Pembroke emerged as a powerhouse with multiple league titles under legendary coach and owner Sheldon Keefe in the late 1990s.

Rise to National Recognition (2000s)

  • In the 2000s, the CCHL saw major success on the national stage:
    • The Pembroke Lumber Kings reached multiple Fred Page Cups (Eastern Canadian Junior A Championship).
    • In 2011, Pembroke won the Royal Bank Cup (now called the Centennial Cup), placing the CCHL at the top of Junior A Hockey.

Modern Era & Development Focus (2010s–Present)

  • The league standardized branding and operations, becoming known simply as the CCHL.
  • It strengthened its identity as a player-development league, with strong emphasis on:
    • NCAA Division I and III advancement
    • Junior prospects camps
    • Showcase events
  • Many players now use the CCHL as a proven route to scholarships in the United States.

Notable Achievements

  • Over 100+ players committed to NCAA programs in the past decade.
  • Multiple teams have captured Fred Page Cups.
  • The league is consistently ranked among the top Canadian Junior A leagues for college advancement.

Today

The modern CCHL features:

  • 12 high-performance teams across Eastern Ontario.
  • A strong focus on education, advancement, and development.
  • Clubs with deep community roots, loyal fanbases, and professional coaching standards.

The CCHL continues to position itself as one of the premier Junior A leagues in Canada, serving as a launchpad for elite players chasing NCAA Hockey opportunities or preparing for major junior and professional careers.

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