The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is home to 20 teams-17 in Canada and three in the United States. Shifting the focus beyond hockey operations, the OHL aims to highlight the distinctiveness of each member club. One such club is the Kingston Frontenacs, who have been a staple of the OHL since their founding in 1973.
Historical Roots and Evolution
Kingston, located along the shores of Lake Ontario, is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. Known as Canada’s first capital in 1841, Kingston played a significant role in the country’s early development. The team’s roots trace back to the Kingston Victorias in 1945, predating the OHL. The current franchise was founded in the Ontario Hockey Association in 1973-74 as the Kingston Canadians, later becoming the Raiders in 1988-89 before adopting the Frontenacs name in 1989.
Home Arena: Slush Puppie Place
Slush Puppie Place is a 5,614-seat sports and entertainment venue in downtown Kingston, opened on November 6, 2008. It was renamed this season, having previously been known as the Leon’s Centre. This modern facility replaced the aging Kingston Memorial Centre and serves as the home arena for the Kingston Frontenacs. The venue has become a central hub for concerts, events, and hockey games, offering fans an immersive experience. Its location provides a prime view of Kingston’s waterfront, contributing to the city’s vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Billet Families
The Frontenacs are supported by 20 dedicated billet families, with an additional two on reserve for the 2024-25 season. These families provide a safe and stable environment for the players.
Notable Alumni
NHL 26 Kingston Frontenacs Overall Player Ratings
The Kingston Frontenacs have produced several notable alumni who have gone on to play in the NHL and other professional hockey leagues. Some of the most well-known players include Shane Wright, Jason Robertson, Sam Bennett, Erik Gudbranson, Lawson Crouse, Michael Dal Colle, and Andrew Raycroft, who won the Calder Trophy as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2004. These players exemplify the strong development system within the Frontenacs organization.
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Scholastic Player of the Year Award Winners
Throughout the team’s history, two players, Erik Gudbranson and Chris Clifford, have been honoured with the Scholastic Player of the Year Award. Current Kingston Frontenacs high school players attend Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School.
Community Engagement and Activities
Kingston offers a variety of community activities, including the annual CFB Kingston Team Building Exercise, which brings local groups together for team-oriented challenges. Players also enjoy golfing and bowling outings, as well as group nutrition coaching classes aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Kingston’s Landmarks and Attractions
Kingston is home to several historic and scenic landmarks:
- Fort Henry National Historic Site: A former military fort with guided tours.
- Gord Downie Memorial Pier: A popular waterfront spot.
- Springer Market Square: A central gathering place for markets and events.
- Kingston Penitentiary: One of Canada’s oldest prisons, offering guided tours.
- Kingston’s Public Market: Ontario’s oldest, a lively hub for local produce and goods.
Kingston served as Canada’s first capital in 1841, marking a key moment in the country’s early history. The city is also home to The Tragically Hip, a legendary Canadian band, who performed their final show in Kingston in 2016.
Dining in Kingston
The Merchant Tap House and Union Kitchen + Cocktails are two popular dining spots in Kingston! The Merchant Tap House provides a warm atmosphere with a classic pub-style menu, while Union Kitchen + Cocktails offers a more upscale experience, featuring innovative dishes and expertly crafted cocktails.
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