Former Owen Sound Attack and Hamilton/Brantford Bulldogs forward brings championship experience to the Axemen

The Acadia Axemen hockey program has strengthened its forward group with the commitment of veteran Ontario Hockey League forward Noah Nelson, adding a proven two-way player with  246 regular season games of major junior experience.

A native of London, Ont., Nelson joins Acadia following a five-year OHL career split between the Hamilton Bulldogs, Brantford Bulldogs and Owen Sound Attack. During his overage season with Owen Sound in 2025-26, Nelson recorded career highs with 11 goals and 10 assists for 21 points in 49 regular season games, while adding two shorthanded goals and providing veteran leadership to a young Attack roster.

We asked Noah what made him chose Acadia for his next chapter, to which he said, “…it felt like the right fit both on and off the ice. The coaching staff believed in me, the hockey program has a strong tradition, and I knew I’d have the opportunity to develop as a player while earning a great education.”

Prior to joining Owen Sound, Nelson spent four seasons with the Hamilton/Brantford Bulldogs organization, where he captured an OHL Championship in 2022. Across his OHL career, he appeared in 246 regular season games, totaling 30 goals and 45 assists for 75 points, while earning a reputation as a dependable, hard-working forward trusted in all situations.

Nelson’s combination of experience, versatility and competitive nature made him an attractive addition for the Axemen as the program continues to build toward the upcoming U SPORTS season.

Acadia Axemen Head Coach Darren Burns sees the addition of Nelson to the lineup as a key piece saying, “Noah is an extremely responsible two-way forward who loves the game. We feel with his work ethic and passion for the game he will be a very important center in our line up. He will be relied on in many different situations this year.”

Known for his relentless work ethic, strong penalty killing ability and leadership, Nelson is expected to make an immediate impact on and off the ice.

When asked what Axemen fans can expect of him on the ice, Noah said, “They can expect a hard working 200ft center man, who can make plays and score goals while also being highly defensively minded.“

The addition of Nelson continues a strong recruiting class for the Axemen, bringing another experienced major junior player into a program focused on competing for championships while developing student-athletes both on the ice and in the classroom.

Former NAHL All-Star and BCHL standout brings experience and competitiveness to the Axemen crease

WOLFVILLE, N.S. – The Acadia Axemen men’s hockey program is proud to announce the commitment of goaltender Eliot Séguin-Lescarbeau for the 2026-27 U SPORTS season.

Séguin-Lescarbeau arrives at Acadia following an impressive junior career that included stops in the NAHL, USHL, and BCHL, competing against some of North America’s top junior talent while consistently developing his game.

For Eliot, the opportunity to continue athletic career at Acadia ultimately made Wolfville the right fit, saying, “I chose Acadia University because I wanted to be part of a great and very competitive organization. Also, I’ve had great conversations with the coaching staff which made me realize that joining the Axemen would perfectly align with my short-term and long-term goals.”

The St-Jérôme, Quebec native established himself as one of the NAHL’s top netminders during the 2023-24 season with the Shreveport Mudbugs. In 38 appearances, he posted a remarkable 26-7-1 record, along with a 1.99 goals-against average, .925 save percentage, and four shutouts, earning NAHL South Division All-Star Team honours.

The following season, Séguin-Lescarbeau advanced to the United States Hockey League with the Des Moines Buccaneers, gaining valuable experience playing in 32 regular season games against elite NCAA and NHL prospects while continuing his development at one of junior hockey’s highest levels.

Most recently, he suited up for the Nanaimo Clippers of the BCHL, appearing in 39 regular season games and recording 23 victories. He elevated his play during the postseason, helping lead the Clippers on a deep playoff run while posting a 2.20 goals-against average and .926 save percentage in 21 playoff appearances.

For Acadia goaltending coach Dan Turner, Séguin-Lescarbeau’s journey through multiple high-level leagues and his commitment to continuous improvement made him an attractive addition to the program.

“Eliot has a very mature approach to his game. His off ice routines are very professional. On the ice, our fans are getting a big goalie that’s agile and will do whatever it takes to make a save. He’s both technical and very athletic. He has a never quit mentality. I’m very excited to get started with him and get to work. I think he’s a guy that can come in and compete in this league right away.”

Standing 6-foot-3, Séguin-Lescarbeau combines size, athleticism, and composure in the crease. Throughout his junior career, he has demonstrated an ability to handle significant workloads while adapting to increasingly competitive levels of hockey.

The addition of Séguin-Lescarbeau strengthens an Axemen goaltending group along with veteran netminder Brayden Peters and recruit Keegan Warren. His experience, maturity, and competitive nature are expected to make an immediate impact as he transitions to the U SPORTS level.

As he prepares for the next chapter of his hockey career, Séguin-Lescarbeau is eager to bring his game to Acadia fans describing his game saying, “I would describe myself as a very composed goaltender that likes to use his size at his advantage. I am also very competitive and I never give up on a play, which helps me to make tough saves from time to time.”

Séguin-Lescarbeau joins a large recruiting class for the Axemen that includes forwards Declan Waddick, Zack Corte, Ethan Walker, and Brady Hunter, defencemen Brody Juck, Charlie Derrheim, and Max Jardine, and goaltender Keegan Warren as Acadia continues to build toward the 2026-27 season.

Former Charlottetown Islander & Summerside Capital defenceman joins Axemen

The Acadia Axemen hockey program has added another experienced and versatile defenceman to its recruiting class, announcing a commitment from Max Jardine as the program continues to build its roster for the upcoming AUS season.

A native of Miramichi, New Brunswick, Jardine arrives in Wolfville following an accomplished major junior career with the Charlottetown Islanders of the QMJHL before finishing his junior eligibility with the Summerside Western Capitals of the Maritime Hockey League (MHL).

Max is excited to begin the next chapter of his hockey career with the Axemen, saying, “Choosing Acadia was not something I took lightly. The tight-knit community and school spirit are second to none. From the facilities to a prestigious hockey history, Acadia is a first-class program. In order to succeed, you have to surround yourself with great people, and I believe Acadia offers that. After many conversations with the coaching staff and players, it became clear we shared the same values regarding hockey, school, and giving back to the community. I’m very humbled and honoured to be an Axeman!”

The 6-foot-1, 205-pound blueliner spent parts of three seasons with the Charlottetown Islanders, establishing himself as a dependable two-way defenceman and respected leader on the Islanders’ blue line. During his QMJHL career, Jardine appeared in 112 regular season games, recording six goals and 24 assists for 30 points while earning a reputation for his physical play, defensive reliability, and leadership qualities. Serving as an alternate captain during the 2024-25 season, he was trusted in key defensive situations and regularly matched up against the opposition’s top forwards. Beyond his contributions on the ice, Jardine was recognized nationally when he was named the CHL Humanitarian of the Year in 2024-25, a testament to his outstanding commitment to community service and leadership.

Midway through last season, Jardine joined the Summerside Western Capitals of the MHL, where he immediately made an impact on both ends of the ice. In 20 regular season games, he recorded one goal and 12 assists for 13 points, helping stabilize the Capitals’ blue line heading into the playoffs. Summerside advanced to Game 7 of the MHL South Division Final before earning the right to host the 2026 Centennial Cup, where the Capitals reached the national championship game before falling to the Niverville Nighthawks.

Prior to joining the Charlottetown Islanders, Jardine began his junior career with his hometown Miramichi Timberwolves of the MHL. Over parts of three seasons, he appeared in 108 regular season games, recording 40 points before earning the opportunity to move to the QMJHL and continue his development at the major junior level.

When asked to describe his game, Jardine said, “I pride myself on being someone who shows up to the rink every day trying to make my team better. I’m excited to do what I can to help Acadia succeed!”

Head coach Darren Burns believes Jardine’s major junior experience, leadership, and defensive presence will strengthen Acadia’s blue line.

“Max comes to our program as an extremely well-respected junior hockey player. His leadership qualities are second to none. He plays an extremely efficient, well-rounded game, combining a high hockey IQ with toughness and grit.”

With the addition of Jardine, the Axemen continue to strengthen their defensive corps, joining fellow recruits Brody Juck and Charlie Derrheim on the blue line. His combination of QMJHL experience, leadership, community involvement, and physical style of play adds another important piece to Acadia’s roster as preparations continue for the 2026-27 AUS season.

BCHL Spruce Grove Saints defenceman joins Acadia

The Acadia Axemen hockey program has added another experienced and dependable defenceman to its recruiting class, announcing a commitment from Charlie Derrheim following a junior career that included several seasons in the BCHL.

A native of Tsawwassen, British Columbia, Derrheim arrives in Wolfville after establishing himself as a reliable shutdown defender at the Junior A level. The 6-foot-1 blueliner spent the majority of his BCHL career with the Surrey Eagles before finishing the 2025-26 season with the Spruce Grove Saints. Over 103 career regular season games with Surrey and Spruce Grove, Derrheim recorded one goal and 16 assists while earning a reputation as a physical, hard-to-play-against defender who was trusted in key defensive situations. In 2023-24, Charlie was a part of Surrey’s Fred Page Cup BCHL championship winning team.

Derrheim is happy to commit to Acadia saying, “I have always wanted to continue my hockey career as a student athlete, and after my first conversation with the coaching staff, I felt an immediate connection. The hockey program is first-class, with top notch facilities and a program that always competes for championships. I have heard nothing but great things about the town of Wolfville, and I am excited to become part of the community. Acadia offers the opportunity to compete at a high level while continuing to develop and grow both as a player, a student and as a person.”

Prior to joining the BCHL ranks, Derrheim developed in the Pacific Junior Hockey League with the White Rock Whalers, where he quickly became one of the league’s top young defencemen. During the 2022-23 season, he earned PJHL Player of the Week honours and was recognized for his defensive play, leadership, and ability to contribute in key moments.

After beginning the 2025-26 campaign with Surrey, Derrheim was acquired by the Spruce Grove Saints ahead of the BCHL trade deadline. Saints General Manager Rob Sklaruk described him as a “very reliable defender” capable of protecting the front of the net and logging difficult minutes on the blue line.

Derrheim quickly made an impact with Spruce Grove down the stretch and contributed offensively during the BCHL playoffs, scoring two goals in four postseason contests while continuing to provide the defensive stability that had become his trademark throughout his junior career.

Charlie described his game, saying, “I would describe myself as a defensive minded player who plays at a strong pace and takes pride in being reliable in all areas of the ice. I use my size and skating ability to defend hard, close gaps quickly, and make it difficult for opponents to create chances. I compete hard every shift and always look to bring a steady, physical presence to the game.”

The Axemen coaching staff believes Derrheim’s defensive reliability, maturity, and experience competing in one of Canada’s top Junior leagues will help him transition successfully to the university game. Head coach Darren Burns says Derrheim’s character and grit make him an important addition to the program.

“Charlie is a very rugged stay at home defensemen. He keeps the game very simple and has proven to be a very strong penalty killer . He has excellent leadership qualities and will provide toughness and grit to our back end. His style is tailored made for the AUS.”

With the addition of Derrheim, along with the prior commitment of fellow BCHL grad, Brody Juck, the Axemen continue to strengthen their defensive group for the upcoming AUS season.

NCAA D1 forward from Enfield joins Axemen

The Acadia Axemen hockey program has added a local NCAA Division I and junior hockey product to its recruiting class, announcing a commitment from forward Brady Hunter as the program continues to strengthen its roster for the upcoming AUS season.

A native of Enfield, Nova Scotia, Hunter returns home following three seasons in NCAA Division I hockey with the Merrimack Warriors and Stonehill Skyhawks and a strong junior career in the British Columbia Hockey League with the Trail Smoke Eaters.

Brady is looking forward to his time at Acadia, saying, “I choose Acadia because of the great coaching staff and the hockey program they have built. I am excited to be a part of the team and compete for a championship!”

Hunter began his NCAA career in 2023-24 with Merrimack College, where he played 11 games as a freshman while adjusting to the pace of Division I hockey. In 2024-25 with Stonehill, he appeared in 34 games and recorded 3 goals and 7 assists for 10 points. He followed that up in 2025-26 posting 3 goals and 5 assists for 8 points in 29 games while continuing to develop as a reliable two-way forward at the collegiate level.

Prior to his NCAA career, Hunter began his junior career with the Valley Wildcats of the MHL in 2018-19 where he put up 6 points in 9 games. He then moved on to the NAHL in the US where he had 11 points in 34 games in 2019-20. Brady moved on to the BCHL where he was a key offensive contributor in the with the Trail Smoke Eaters. During the 2022-23 season, he produced 18 goals and 44 assists for 62 points in 54 regular season games, finishing among the Smoke Eaters’ leading scorers and establishing himself as one of the team’s most consistent offensive threats.

Over his BCHL career, Hunter appeared in 115 regular season games with Trail, recording 44 goals and 82 assists for 126 points while steadily increasing his role each season. His combination of offensive instincts, pace, and playmaking ability made him a dependable top-six forward and a key part of the Smoke Eaters’ attack.

Known for his skating ability, offensive creativity, and competitive edge, Hunter brings a blend of BCHL scoring production and NCAA experience to the Axemen lineup. His ability to contribute in multiple situations should allow him to transition smoothly into U SPORTS hockey.

Brady says, “Axemen fans can expect a player with a high motor and compete level. A playmaker with high hockey IQ. A guy who drives the play and attacks the game.”

The Axemen coaching staff believes Hunter’s combination of NCAA experience and BCHL offensive production will make him an immediate impact player within the program. Head coach Darren Burns says Hunter’s energy and character make him a strong addition to the Axemen forward group.

“Brady has a tremendous work ethic and oozes character. He plays a strong 200 foot game with a lot of energy. His maturity and team first attitude will make him a huge asset coming in this season. He already has lots of college experience so this will be very important for our program.”

With the addition of Hunter, the Axemen continue to add experienced and proven offensive talent to their roster. Acadia has now announced the commitment of 4 forwards, 1 defenceman, and 1 goaltender to the program for 2026-27 with more announcements still to come!

Axemen add former Yarmouth Mariner & Moncton Wildcat netminder to recruitment class

The Acadia Axemen hockey program has added a talented goaltender to its recruiting class, announcing a commitment from Keegan Warren following an impressive junior career that included time in both the QMJHL and MHL.

Originally from Conception Bay South, Newfoundland, Warren brings valuable major junior experience to the Axemen crease after developing within the Moncton Wildcats organization of the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League. The 6-foot-2 goaltender appeared in 28 career QMJHL games with the Wildcats over two seasons, compiling a 17-6 record along with a .894 save percentage and 3.30 goals-against average. Over 4 seasons in the MHL, Warren suited up in 84 regular season games with the Yarmouth Mariners, posting a 42-32-7 record, with a .901 save percentage and 3.39 GAA.

Warren was happy to choose Acadia for his next chapter saying, “For me Acadia has been the school I wanted to go to since I had my sights set on playing AUS hockey. I had the chance to attend a playoff game and was blown away by the atmosphere. One that I’m not only excited to play in, but thrive in. I’ve heard nothing but positive things surrounding the school, and also the hockey program. So when the opportunity arose to attend Acadia, it was a clear decision that this is where I want to further both my education, and my hockey career. Super excited to get started on bringing a championship to Acadia.”

Warren broke into the MHL in 2022-23 with a sensational rookie season going 19-3-1 with a 2.19 GAA and a .912 Save %, backstopping the Yarmouth Mariners to a quarterfinal appearance in the Centennial Cup. After starting 2023-24 with the Mariners, he was called up to Moncton.

Keegan made his biggest impact during the 2023-24 season in Moncton, where he posted a 13-6 record with a .899 save percentage and two shutouts across 23 appearances. His strong QMJHL rookie campaign helped solidify the Wildcats’ depth in goal while showcasing his athleticism and composure against high-level major junior competition.

During the 2024-25 season, Warren continued to develop within the Wildcats organization, appearing in five regular season games while contributing to one of the QMJHL’s top teams. Following his time in the QMJHL, Warren moved to the Maritime Hockey League, where he continued his development at the Junior A level with the Mariners. Last season, he played in 43 regular season games, going 15-19-6 with 3.76 GAA and a .897 Save %. His experience playing in both major junior and Junior A hockey has helped him establish a reputation as a technically sound and competitive goaltender capable of handling heavy workloads.

Known for his calm presence in the crease, strong positioning, and athletic ability, Warren gives the Axemen another promising addition between the pipes as the program continues to build for the 2026-27 season.

When asked about his style of game in net, he said, “My game revolves a lot around controlling the game in front of me. I’m a calming influence in the net, I’d call myself a game changer with the ability to make timely saves in key moments. My style includes a lot of controlled movements and staying in good position, also with the ability to play very athletic in situations that require it. I also bring a lot of energy and passion to the ice that spreads through the entire team.”

The Axemen coaching staff believes Warren’s major junior background and experience competing at a high level will help him transition smoothly to the university game.

Acadia Axemen goalie coach Dan Turner said, “Keegan plays a smart efficient style in net. He holds his feet well and moves laterally very well. He’s a strong skater and comes to us with both jr A and Major Junior experience. He has also been to a Boston Bruins development camp two years ago as well. His determination to continue to get better everyday and his desire to become the best at what he does, won us over.”

With the addition of Warren, the Axemen have now announced 5 new recruits, including 3 forwards, 1 defenceman, and 1 goaltender, with more to come in the coming days!

Acadia add OJHL forward

The Acadia Axemen hockey program has added another experienced and productive forward to its recruiting class, announcing a commitment from Zack Corte following an outstanding Ontario Junior Hockey League career with the Stouffville Spirit.

A native of Scarborough, Ontario, Corte arrives in Wolfville after spending four seasons with the Spirit, where he developed into one of the OJHL’s most dangerous offensive players and respected leaders. A former draft pick of the Soo Greyhounds, Corte steadily improved throughout his junior career before enjoying a breakout final season in 2025-26.

Zack saw Acadia as his prime choice saying, “After talking with the coaching staff and learning more about Acadia, it quickly felt like a place where I could see myself growing as a person and a player. What stood out most was the culture around the hockey program and the pride that comes with being an Axeman.  There’s a strong history and tradition at the school where players and students are held to a high standard. I haven’t been to Wolfville but everyone I’ve asked says great things about the community and the people. It seems welcoming and relaxed, which really appealed to me.”

Serving as an assistant captain for the Spirit, Corte emerged as one of the league’s premier goal scorers during his final year of junior hockey. By midseason, he had already surpassed his previous career-high in points and was among the OJHL leaders with 29 goals and 50 points, earning selection to the OJHL All-Star Celebration where he was named Team East Player of the Game after scoring twice.

Corte finished the 2025-26 regular season with 37 goals and 64 points, placing him among the league’s top goal scorers and helping lead Stouffville to one of the best records in the OJHL. His offensive production, combined with his leadership and experience, made him a key contributor to the Spirit’s success.

Zack is excited to hit the ice this fall saying, “Fans can expect a player who competes hard every shift and brings a lot of speed, energy and emotion to the game. I’m an offensive player who likes creating chances off the rush, attacking with speed, and making plays in open ice. But I take pride in being responsible in all 3 zones.  Whether it’s contributing 5-on-5 or special teams, I look to impact the game in as many ways as possible.

Known for his offensive instincts, competitive nature, and ability to finish around the net, Corte brings an offensive skill set that should translate well to the university game. Head coach Darren Burns says Corte’s offensive IQ and passion make him an exciting addition to the Acadia hockey program.

“Zack has always been a player who can find the back of the net. He has produced offence every year he has played in junior. He has a high passion level and his hockey mind will help him be an offensive asset for our team.”

With the addition of Corte, along with forward recruits Declan Waddick and Ethan Walker and defenceman Brody Juck, the Axemen continue to add experienced junior talent as preparations continue for the 2026-27 AUS season.

Acadia Adds BCHL Defenseman

The Acadia Axemen hockey program are proud to announce the commitment of defenceman Brody Juck, following an impressive junior career from Juck in both the BCHL and AJHL.

The Coquitlam, British Columbia native brings size, mobility, and offensive ability to the Axemen blue line after playing parts of five junior seasons across Western Canada. The 6-foot-2, left-shot defenceman developed through the BCHL with the Coquitlam Express, Trail Smoke Eaters, Spruce Grove Saints, Victoria Grizzlies, and Langley Rivermen, while also spending a standout season in the AJHL with the Lloydminster Bobcats.

We asked Brody why Acadia was the right fit for him, he said, “The biggest reason why Acadia became such a natural fit for me was their strong academic reputation, combined with an elite hockey program that continues to be dominant each year. Paired with the close knit community and passionate environment, I knew it was going to provide the ideal setting for my future endeavors both on and off the ice.”

Juck first broke into the BCHL during the 2021-22 season with his hometown Coquitlam Express, appearing in 14 games as a 16-year-old before continuing his development with the Vancouver Northeast Chiefs U18 AAA program.

He later joined the Trail Smoke Eaters for the 2022-23 BCHL season, recording four goals and eight points in 43 games while establishing himself as a reliable two-way defenceman.

Juck took a major offensive step forward during the 2023-24 season with the Lloydminster Bobcats of the AJHL, producing nine goals and 32 assists for 41 points in 54 games from the back end. His breakout season helped earn recognition as one of the league’s more dynamic offensive defencemen.

Returning to the BCHL in 2024-25, Juck split the season between the Spruce Grove Saints and Victoria Grizzlies, combining for 17 points in 50 regular season games before adding four assists in 17 playoff contests with Victoria.

This past season with the Langley Rivermen, Juck continued to contribute offensively from the blue line with 21 points in 54 games and was selected to participate in the BCHL College Prospects Game during the league’s All-Star Weekend.

Over his junior career, Juck appeared in more than 230 games across the BCHL and AJHL levels, totaling more than 100 career points while building a reputation as a steady two-way defenceman capable of playing in all situations.

Juck says, “Fans can expect energy on both sides of the ice. I possess a strong, fast and physical game, with offensive moments. My speed and size are my strong suit and I hope to continue to showcase that on the ice this fall.”

Head coach Darren Burns says Juck’s experience and reliability make him an important addition to the Axemen roster.

“Brody is a very reliable puck moving defenseman. He keeps the game very simple and makes a good first pass. He is an intelligent defenseman who is hard to play against. He will bring a strong defense-first mentality to our team.”

With the addition of Juck and the previously announced recruits Declan Waddick and Ethan Walker, the Axemen have added two forwards and defenceman to the 2026-27 roster. Stay tuned next week as we announce more new recruits to the program!

Axemen add forward from OJHL

The Acadia Axemen are proud to welcome forward Ethan Walker to the program. A skilled forward, Walker is coming off a strong junior career in the Ontario Junior Hockey League with the Leamington Flyers.

The Hamilton, Ontario native joins the Axemen after emerging as one of the top offensive players in the OJHL this past season. In 50 regular season games with Leamington during the 2025-26 campaign, Walker recorded 30 goals and 37 assists for 67 points, finishing as the Flyers’ leading scorer while averaging more than a point per game.

Walker also continued to produce during the postseason, contributing four goals and six points in 10 playoff games as the Flyers advanced through the OJHL playoffs.

Ethan is proud to make his commitment to the program saying, “Acadia University stood out to me because of its proud tradition, strong culture, and commitment to excellence both in the classroom and on the ice. The chance to join a respected U SPORTS program and represent the Axemen is an opportunity I’m truly proud of. I’m excited to be part of a team with high standards and to do everything I can to contribute to its continued success.”

Prior to his breakout 2025-26 season, Walker played an important role during Leamington’s first years in the OJHL after the organization transitioned from the GOJHL to Junior A hockey. During the 2024-25 season, the 5-foot-11 forward registered 11 goals and 24 assists for 35 points in 23 games, helping the Flyers establish themselves as one of the league’s top teams.

Known for his offensive instincts, skating ability, and competitiveness, Walker developed into a key contributor and leader within the Flyers organization. His strong play earned league recognition throughout the season, including being named one of the OJHL’s Three Stars of the Week after recording six points in three games during a standout stretch in November.

The Axemen coaching staff believes Walker’s offensive skill set and junior experience will allow him to transition effectively to the university game while adding speed and scoring ability to Acadia’s forward group.

Walker’s ability to create offense and compete in all situations made him one of the OJHL’s most dangerous forwards this past season, and the Axemen expect him to bring that same energy and competitiveness to Wolfville.

When asked what Axemen fans can expect from him on the ice, Ethan said, “… expect a player who competes hard every shift, brings energy, and puts the team first. I take pride in my speed, intensity, scoring ability and hockey IQ, and I believe those are the qualities that will help me make a strong transition to the U SPORTS level. My focus is to earn my role, contribute in every way I can, and help the team compete for a championship.

Head coach Darren Burns says Walker’s speed and tenacity make him an exciting addition to the Axemen recruiting class.

“Ethan is a very tenacious player who can play the game with high pace. His work ethic and determination will help his adjustment into the league. His speed along with his gritty play will be a huge asset on our Olympic size ice”

With the addition of Walker along with previously announced Declan Waddick, the Axemen continue to add proven junior talent and offensive depth as preparations continue for the 2026-27 AUS season.

Axemen add offensive forward with OHL & BCHL experience

The Acadia Axemen are proud to welcome forward Declan Waddick to the program. Waddick is coming off of an impressive junior career that included four seasons in the Ontario Hockey League and a productive final season in the BCHL.

We asked Declan why he chose Acadia, he said, “The smaller campus community and close-knit atmosphere really stood out to me. I was also impressed by the hockey program’s culture, competitiveness, and commitment to player development. I wanted to be part of a team that values hard work, discipline, and teamwork while also helping players continue to improve on and off the ice. The coaching staff and overall environment made it feel like a place where I could succeed and contribute.”

A native of Lakeshore, Ontario, Waddick was originally selected in the second round, 39th overall, by the Niagara IceDogs in the 2021 OHL Priority Selection. He went on to appear in 247 career OHL games between the Niagara IceDogs and Owen Sound Attack, recording 63 goals and 125 points during his major junior career.

Waddick broke out offensively during the 2022-23 season with Niagara, scoring 28 goals and adding 21 assists for 49 points in 64 games, finishing among the IceDogs’ top offensive contributors. He was later acquired by Owen Sound prior to the 2023-24 season, where he added 27 points in his first season with the Attack before following it up with 32 points in 61 games during the 2024-25 campaign.

Following his OHL career, Waddick joined the Spruce Grove Saints of the BCHL for the 2025-26 season, where he continued his offensive growth. In 49 regular season games with the Saints, the 5-foot-9 forward scored 25 goals and 27 assists for 52 points, finishing among the team’s leading scorers.

Known for his speed, offensive instincts, and competitive play, Waddick brings valuable junior experience and scoring ability to the Axemen lineup as the program continues preparing for the upcoming AUS season.

The Axemen coaching staff believes Waddick’s experience playing in both the OHL and BCHL will help him make a smooth transition to the university game, while adding depth and offensive production to Acadia’s forward group.

Waddick describes himself on the ice as “…a creative but smart centre/winger that can make plays under pressure anywhere on the ice. Dangerous when given too much time and space.”

Head coach Darren Burns says the addition of Waddick is an important piece offensively for the future of the program.

“Declan is a very intelligent offensive hockey player. He has a natural knack for scoring and will be a big addition to our team offensively. He is a very crafty player who uses his high hockey intelligence to make plays whenever he is on the ice”

Waddick is the first of the announced Axemen recruits as the Acadia hockey program contiues to build toward the 2026-27 AUS season. Stay tuned for our next recruit announcement on Friday!