Navy Vets Announce First Group of Signings for Inaugural GOHL Season

The Woodstock Navy Vets are proud to announce the first wave of player signings as the organization continues preparations for its inaugural season in the Greater Ontario Hockey League.

The initial signing class features a strong blend of local talent, elite AAA players from across Ontario, and experienced junior hockey players who have chosen to continue their development in Woodstock as the Navy Vets enter an exciting new chapter in the club’s history.

“We’re extremely excited about the group we’ve assembled so far,” said Darren Young, General Manager of the Woodstock Navy Vets. “These players represent the type of talent, character and competitiveness that we want our program to be known for. While there is still work to be done, this is an important first step in building a team that our community can be proud of.”

The Navy Vets’ first group of signings includes:

Goaltenders

  • Ian Kubelka (2009) – Woodstock, ON – Huron Perth U18 AAA
  • Landyn Quirk (2009) – Cambridge, ON – Kitchener U18 AAA

Defencemen

  • Sebastien Fortin (2010) – Woodstock, ON – Vaughan Kings U16 AAA
  • Cole Joudrey (2009) – Woodstock, ON – Kitchener U18 AAA
  • Will Wright (2008) – Woodstock, ON – Woodstock Navy Vets (PJHL)
  • Jordan Jacobs (2007) – Baden, ON – NH Firebirds (PJHL)
  • Robert Landry (2009) – Sudbury, ON – Sudbury U18 AAA
  • Colby Branton (2009) – London, ON – London U18 AAA
  • Hunter Currie (2009) – Lively, ON – BioSteel U18 AAA

Forwards

  • Kingston McPherson (2008) – Woodstock, ON – Woodstock Navy Vets (PJHL)
  • Emre Alves (2009) – Waterloo, ON – Waterloo U18 AAA
  • Xander Zanier (2009) – Essex, ON – Wheatley Sharks (PJHL)
  • Cole Shoup (2008) – Springfield, ON – Dorchester Dolphins (PJHL)
  • Jaxon Boone (2008) – Port Elgin, ON – Mount Forest Patriots (PJHL)
  • Josh Jodoin (2010) – Mississauga, ON – Mississauga U16 AAA
  • Cole Worsfold-Bonneville (2008) – Woodstock, ON – Waterloo U18 AAA
  • Jaxon Bagshaw (2009) – Uxbridge, ON – Ajax-Pickering Raiders U18 AAA
  • Evan Giannone (2009) – Markham, ON – Ajax-Pickering Raiders U18 AAA

The Navy Vets’ first signing class includes players from communities across Ontario while also featuring several local products who will have the opportunity to continue their development in front of family, friends and fans in Woodstock.

Among the group are several highly regarded AAA players from some of Ontario’s top programs, along with players who have already gained valuable junior hockey experience. The class is highlighted by 2010-born defenceman Sebastien Fortin, who is currently ranked among the province’s top prospects eligible for the 2026 OHL Priority Selection.

The signing class also reflects the organization’s commitment to building a strong local foundation, with Woodstock natives Ian Kubelka, Sebastien Fortin, Cole Joudrey, Will Wright, Kingston McPherson and Cole Worsfold-Bonneville all choosing to continue their development in their hometown.

“Our staff has worked tirelessly over the past several months identifying players who fit our vision for the future,” added Young. “We’re building a culture that emphasizes player development, accountability, community involvement and winning hockey. We believe this group provides a strong foundation as we begin our first season in the GOHL.”

The signings represent another important milestone for the organization as preparations continue for the 2026-27 season. Since announcing its move to the GOHL earlier this year, the Navy Vets have continued to build momentum through player recruitment, staff additions, community partnerships and facility enhancements.

Today’s announcement is just the beginning. Throughout the summer, the Navy Vets will be sharing more information about the players who will help shape the next chapter of hockey in Woodstock, giving fans a closer look at the roster as the organization prepares for opening night.

The organization expects to announce additional player signings and hockey operations updates throughout the summer as it continues building towards the season opener.

Fans are encouraged to follow the Woodstock Navy Vets on social media and visit the team’s website for ongoing roster announcements, player features and team news throughout the offseason.

The future is taking shape in Anchortown.