The Ontario Elite Hockey League is standing by its decision to award the North Conference Final to the Ripley Wolves, despite calls from the Ontario Hockey Association to consider replaying a controversial game.
The controversy stems from Game 6, in which the Minto 81's used an ineligible goaltender, resulting in a league-issued forfeit that ended the series.
In a statement, Minto says it had no other options after injuries and illness depleted its goaltending roster, adding the team contacted the league commissioner and "was granted approval to utilize an emergency backup goaltender."
The club says it followed that direction, but notes the OHA later reviewed the situation and recommended the series be decided on the ice. While Minto says it disagrees with the outcome, the team adds it "respects the process" and is now turning its focus to the 2026 Allan Cup.
Speaking with CKNXNewsToday.ca, OEHL Chair Gord Lamont said the league understood the desire to settle the series on the ice, but ultimately felt bound by its rulebook.
"Everybody...would far sooner the game be settled on the ice," Lamont said. "But because of our league constitution and our league rules, it was obvious that there was an ineligible player used and the penalty for that is forfeiting the game."
Lamont confirmed the league did discuss the OHA’s suggested options, including a potential replay.
"That is what they suggested that we try to do," he said. "Everybody would be happy to do that, except that our league constitution and our league rules say...it was meant to be a forfeit of the game."
He added that after those discussions, the OHA understood the league’s position.
"When I talked to him, he understood completely and agreed with us," Lamont said.
The decision sends Ripley to the final against the Seaforth Centenaires, with the championship series moving ahead as scheduled. Game 1 is in Ripley on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 8:30 p.m.
Lamont acknowledged the situation has been difficult for all involved and said it will likely be revisited at the league’s annual meeting.
"This one is certainly going to be looked at...some teams may come up with some ideas on how to change it and make it better," he said.
For now, the league is shifting its focus back to hockey on the ice.
"I expect a very good series...hopefully the arenas are filled and both teams represent our league well," Lamont added.
