The 2026-27 season marks an important step for EPIC Academy as the program enters its second season and first in the Junior Prospects Hockey League (JPHL). Competing in the league’s 18U AAA division, EPIC was named the JPHL’s first official hub in Ontario as part of the league’s Eastern expansion.
Leading this year’s group of student-athletes is returning Head Coach Trevor Gallant, the fourth all-time leading scorer in OHL history, alongside Assistant General Manager Lee Langelaan. Joining the staff this offseason were Director of Hockey Operations Brett Harrogate and Assistant Coach Ryan Brown, both bringing professional-level scouting experience through The Pro Hockey Group. Trainer Cassidi Nother returns for her first full season with the program, while Equipment Manager Nathan Cook enters his second season overseeing the team’s equipment needs.
The season opened in Kingston on Sept. 25th, as EPIC made its JPHL debut against Velocity Academy and secured its first win in a 6-5 thriller. Goaltender Zak Lyle scored the game-winning goal (yes, you read that correctly) in what the league’s Instagram account called a “barnburner” (Click Here). EPIC dropped its next two games, including one in a shootout, but left Kingston with a historic win and valuable experience for group.
The next weekend, EPIC headed west for its first trip to Alberta. All four games in Edmonton were decided by one goal, including a heartbreaking overtime loss in the final matchup. Although coming home to Ontario without a win was difficult, the close games provided valuable experience and highlighted the importance of puck management, limiting mistakes and capitalizing on scoring chances.
Several players stood out through the opening seven games. Michael DiGirolamo posted a .947 SV% and a 1.79 GAA through four appearances. Offensively, Andrei Gurdis leads the team with eight points, including five goals and three assists. Chris Brekelmans follows with six points, while Ethan DeHoog and Loïc van Laarhoven each have five.
Tanner Pruett’s work ethic and leadership also earned him September’s Player of the Month honours, with Head Coach Trevor Gallant recognizing his contributions at practice (Click Here).
With the first two showcases behind them, EPIC now turns its attention to the JPHL’s first-ever Eastern Showcases in Strathroy (Oct. 16-18) and London (Oct. 30-Nov. 1). The upcoming showcases will give local families, friends and supporters an opportunity to watch the team in action as EPIC continues to build on its first month in the JPHL.
Written by Josh Mailloux
Related EPIC News
