Photo: Turnbull’s Northern Photography
SUDBURY, Ont. – The Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL) and its Board of Governors announced Thursday, effective immediately, the reinstatement of the Elliot Lake Vikings franchise, who will return to the ice for the 2026-27 season.
This coincides with the scheduled reopening of the club’s home venue, Rogers Arena, this summer.
Elliot Lake returns to the NOJHL following a one and a half year leave of absence from the league, due the arena’s closure for lengthy repairs and renovations, that are nearing completion over the next number of months.
“This is tremendous news for not only for the Vikings and NOJHL, but the entire community of Elliot Lake, who have persevered over an extended span, while repairs and reconstruction to Rogers Arena have arduously taken place,” stated league commissioner Robert Mazzuca.
“With Elliot Lake having a long and storied history in the NOJHL, we look forward to welcoming the Vikings back to the ice next season,” added Mazzuca.
For his part, Vikings team president Jef Jarmovitch offered: “This moment represents more than just the return of Junior A hockey to Elliot Lake. It marks a renewed commitment to our community, our fans, and the proud hockey tradition that has long been part of this city’s identity.”
Jarmovitch went on to say: “The upcoming reopening of Rogers Arena symbolizes a fresh start, not only for our team, but to our loyal fans and the entire hockey community.”
In other team news, the Vikings have announced the appointment of Taurean White as the club’s head coach and general manager.
White brings valuable Jr. A experience, featuring a stint previously, coaching with the Elliot Lake Wildcats NOJHL franchise. His familiarity with the community, combined with passion for player development and competitive excellence, makes him a strong choice for this new chapter of Vikings’ hockey.
Also returning to the team is its assistant GM and director of scouting, John Buchanan, who will play an important role in building a competitive and character-driven roster.
In the coming weeks and months, leading up to the 2026-27 season, the Vikings will be providing updates on player signings, community events, partnership opportunities and ticket sales, through further media updates and on the team’s official website, elliotlakevikings.com.
NOJHL playoff action begins tonight and runs through early May as eight teams begin their respective quests for a league title and a berth to the Centennial Cup, presented by Tim Hortons, Canadian Jr. A championship, which goes May 7-17 in Summerside, P.E.I.
