The criteria that was used in rating these four leagues, was how do teams within the leagues compare when developing players who move on to the NHL, NCAA, USHL, NAHL, NCDC, and Canada Junior A, or Canadian University hockey programs. The size of the league as in number of teams was also taken into account for depth of player talent throughout the league. The level of promotion of commitments was also taken into account for this particular rating.
1. GOJHL
The GOJHL once again is Canada’s leader in Junior B player development, and its not even close. While Western Canada elevated leagues to Junior A with the departure of the BCHL, who ever is leading Ontario hockey is simply wrong for not recognizing the GOJHL as Juhnior A. There are plenty of teams in the GOJHL that would not only compete with Ontario’s best Junior A clubs, but they could beat a great number of them. The GOJHL has been considering leaving Hockey Canada for this reason, and the only thing holding the league back is its relationship with the OHL and developing their players.
2. EOJHL
The EOJHL thrives in Ottawa Ontario’s smaller cities. It serves as a very good development league for those players who want to stay at home and continue playing. Used by the CCHL for a development pool, many players do move up from the league each year.
3. HJHL
The Heritage Junior Hockey League has taken the lead in Western Vanada with the departure of other leagues receiving a Junior A label. The league, while having some good players in it, does not do much to promote itself or the players accomplishments.
4. VIJHL
The VIJHL while having one season with the Junior A label, never rose to Junior A level. Now back at the Junior B level as a feeder league for the BCHL outside of Hockey Canada, the league will likely improve. Being on an island though, is not going to lead to improved scouting at any time.
Next week TJHN will publish the Top 20 list of all leagues combined.
