GOHL adopts OHL rules for upcoming season

Ice hockey stick with puck

Chatham Maroons fans can expect some changes to the game heading into the next Junior B hockey season.

The Greater Ontario Hockey League (GOHL) has officially adopted the rules of the Ontario Hockey League in an effort to further strengthen the alignment of the two entities.

The changes, while minor, make sense, as the GOHL was named the official development league of the OHL last year.

GOHL officials said the change will ensure the league is providing the highest standard of player development, better preparing them for advancement.

Some rules in the GOHL won’t change, such as players in the GOHL will continue to wear full cages or visors. Also, players will continue to get game misconducts for fighting.

The change is also expected to create a high-performance environment that mirrors the expectations and standards of major junior hockey.

The GOHL preseason is scheduled to begin later this month.