OHL Officials Represented At 2026 World Juniors

OHL Roundtable

Jared Brown

Dec 29, 2025

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Credit: Ontario Hockey League

There are 24 players from the OHL playing at the 2026 World Junior Championship. Ottawa 67’s Finnish forward Jasper Kuhta is tied for the tournament lead in points with five after the third day, while stars Brady Martin and Adam Jiricek each have made an impact in two of their country's wins.

However, there are two more members from the OHL who are skating at this event.

OHL referee Hayden Verbeek and OHL linesman Luke Pye are in Minneapolis and St. Paul working as officials for the tournament.

Verbeek and Pye worked the Germany vs. Slovakia game on Saturday, Dec. 27. Slovakia won the game 4-1, taking advantage on the man advantage with two power play markers. Verbeek was busy, as the Germans took seven minor penalties compared to Slovakia’s two.

Verbeek played in the OHL for five seasons for the Soo Greyhounds, stretching from 2013-2018. Drafted by Sault Ste. Marie 71st overall in 2013. He finished his career skating in 250 regular season games, recording 59 goals and 77 assists for 136 points. He suited up in an additional 45 playoff games, with 20 postseason points to his resume.

Verbeek was teammates with Boris Katchouk, who was just traded in the NHL.

If you recognize the last name, one of Hayden Verbeek's uncles is Anaheim Ducks GM Pat Verbeek.

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