Kenny Belanger of the Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Collingwood Blues has confirmed his commitment to join U SPORTS’ Nipissing University Lakers in North Bay beginning with the 2025-26 season.
The 20-year-old from Sault Ste. Marie, ON, came to Collingwood last summer in a trade with the OJHL’s Oakville Blades.
His father, Ken Belanger, played 248 games in the NHL for Los Angeles, Boston, Toronto and the New York Islanders.
“I’m excited and honoured,” Belanger said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to pursue my dedication to hockey while attending Nipissing University.
“Thank you to the Nipissing Lakers coaching staff for this opportunity, as well as to all my current and past coaches, friends, and teammates. A special thank you to the Collingwood Blues coaches, incredible billet families and my family for their support and for being a part of this journey.”
“I’m thankful for the opportunity to play for the Collingwood Blues organization and coaches this year, and I’m enjoying every moment of my junior career as I continue to focus on my future goals.”
Belanger has 32 points (9 goals/23 assists) this season.
“Kenny has been a great asset to our hockey program and community since joining the Blues,” Collingwood General Manager Mike Tarantino told the OJHL. “Kenny has come in and provided leadership and versatility for our coaches along with being an offensive threat. We are excited for Kenny and the Belanger family on his commitment to the Nipissing Lakers men’s hockey team, and know he will be a strong addition to both the hockey program and school community.”
“Since arriving in Collingwood, Kenny has been nothing short of a true professional on and off the ice,” said Collingwood Head Coach Andrew Campoli. “He leads by example and has been a great mentor to our younger players. His work ethic has driven him to not only be an offensive threat, but has also provided the team with a strong defensive presence. We couldn’t be happier for Kenny and his family on his commitment to Nipissing University.”
Congratulations to Kenny and best of luck in the OUA and U SPORTS!
The OJHL has had more than 80 Canadian Hockey League, U SPORTS and NCAA commitments already this season.
Check out all our current commitments here: https://www.ojhl.ca/committments/
Collingwood’s next game is in Pickering on Wednesday at 3 p.m. Belanger and the Blues are home to Mississauga Friday night.
