NOJHL ‘disappointed’ by Sudbury Cubs’ league exit

The Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League's logo as redesigned in 2025. (File photo/Supplied/Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League)

The Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League has acknowledged the Greater Sudbury Cubs’ decision to forfeit their franchise and withdraw from league membership, a move that came just hours after the NOJHL released its 2026-27 schedule with the Cubs included.

The league, in a statement on July 18, responded to the Burgess family’s letter, which formally notified the NOJHL of their intention to terminate their membership.

“2601201 Ontario Ltd. and the Sudbury Cubs Hockey organization wish to forfeit their franchise in the NOJHL effective immediately,” the owners wrote in their letter.

“This is a voluntary and self-termination of our franchise.”

League expresses disappointment

The NOJHL acknowledged surprise at the timing of the announcement while stopping short of criticizing the organization’s choice.

“While we are disappointed by this decision, we respect the organization’s choice to determine the direction it believes is best for its future,” the league said in its statement.

The NOJHL also thanked those who contributed to the Cubs’ tenure in the league.

“We thank the players, coaches, staff, volunteers, billets, sponsors, and fans who have supported the organization throughout its time in our league,” the statement read.

Cubs cite industry pressures

In his letter to the league, Mark Burgess outlined several factors that made continued operation in the NOJHL unsustainable.

“The changing landscape of Junior Tier 2 hockey, including the unfettered movement of players, open recruitment from other leagues, exodus of players to southern leagues for more exposure and the dwindling number of players in the game due to the high cost of participation, has made it untenable to operate in the NOJHL,” Burgess wrote.

The Cubs’ ownership indicated they are exploring opportunities in other junior leagues, with a possible start as early as the 2026-27 season, while reaffirming their commitment to local minor hockey programs.

League reaffirms priorities

The NOJHL’s statement did not address whether another ownership group might seek to place a franchise in Sudbury or how the schedule would be adjusted following the departure.

“The NOJHL remains committed to providing a first-class Junior A hockey experience focused on player development, community engagement, and competitive excellence across northern Ontario,” the league said.

The league added that its priority remains supporting its remaining member clubs, student-athletes, and the long-term strength and stability of the organization.

“We wish the players and everyone associated with the Greater Sudbury Cubs success in their future endeavours,” said NOJHL commissioner Robert Mazzuca to conclude the statement.

The Cubs had won the NOJHL championships three seasons in a row and participated in the Centennial Cup in each of those seasons.

With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca anchor Ian Campbell