The 2025–26 season marked an exciting chapter in this new era of Olds Grizzlys hockey. With one of the youngest rosters in the league, the team embraced the challenge of development and growth, and throughout the season fans were able to witness many important milestones along the way. From first AJHL goals to first AJHL wins in net, and even the first victories behind the bench for the Grizzlys’ newest coaches, the season was filled with moments that signaled a promising future for the organization.
With a young lineup comes learning experiences, and the Grizzlys spent the season focused on building a strong foundation both on and off the ice. As the year progressed, the team showed steady improvement in their structure, work ethic, and confidence against some of the AJHL’s more experienced clubs.
While the team focused heavily on development, several young players made an immediate impact in the AJHL. Rookie forwards Ryder Riedel and Jordin St. Louis quickly emerged as two of the league’s most exciting first-year players. Riedel put together an impressive rookie campaign, earning 5 Rookie of the Week honors while consistently contributing offensively. St. Louis also made waves around the league as a 16-year-old, picking up 2 Rookie of the Week awards and being named AJHL Rookie of the Month for January after a strong stretch of play. The success wasn’t limited to the forward group, as rookie goaltender Cole Prelusky delivered several standout performances in net and earned an AJHL Defensive Player of the Week award, playing a key role in some of the team’s biggest wins throughout the season.
As the season progressed, the Grizzlys showed noticeable growth both individually and as a team. The club improved on last season’s record and put together several strong stretches of hockey, including the team’s longest winning streak since 2012 and an unexpected late-season playoff push. Those results reflected the commitment and hard work being put in every day by the players and coaching staff as they continue building toward long-term success.
That progress was also felt in the stands. With the team showing improvement on the ice, fan support continued to grow throughout the season, with average attendance increasing compared to last year. The energy from Grizzlys fans inside the Olds Sportsplex played a huge role in creating a great atmosphere for the players all season long, especially during big home games and key matchups down the stretch.
The season was capped off with the Olds Grizzlys Annual Awards Banquet, celebrating the accomplishments of the players and recognizing their contributions throughout the year. The 2025–26 award winners were:
Coach’s Choice Award – Hubert Larose
Most Sportsmanlike Player – Brendan Thomas
Most Valuable Player – Jordin St. Louis
Top Defenceman – Brody Martin
Top Rookie – Ryder Riedel
As the organization reflects on the season, the Olds Grizzlys would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make the year possible. To our fans who packed the Olds Sportsplex, our dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly behind the scenes, our billets who provide a home away from home for our players, and our sponsors and community partners, your support means everything to this team and organization. Junior hockey could not exist without the support of the community, and the passion shown by Grizzlys fans throughout the season continues to play a major role in building the culture and future of this team. From game nights at the rink to the countless hours put in by volunteers and staff, every part of the organization contributes to making Grizzlys hockey something the community can be proud of.
Your passion and commitment to Grizzlys hockey continues to help build something special here in Olds, and the future is bright as this young group continues to grow and develop.
We look forward to seeing everyone back at the Olds Sportsplex for the 2026–27 season.
