Sarnia Legionnaires Enter a New Era Under New Ownership
Sarnia, Ontario – The Sarnia Legionnaires of the Greater Ontario Hockey League (GOHL) are proud to announce that the organization has officially been acquired by a new ownership group led by Shannon O’Connor, alongside Tate Philips and Anthony Miele.
The new ownership group brings together a wealth of experience in business, education, leadership, and hockey development. Their collective vision is centered on building a first-class junior hockey experience while creating opportunities for players to develop both on and off the ice.
Ownership Statement
Shannon O’Connor, Majority Owner, expressed her excitement about the future of the organization and its role within the Sarnia community.
“We are incredibly grateful and excited to begin this new chapter with the Sarnia Legionnaires,” said O’Connor. “I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to everyone who has supported hockey in Sarnia over the years. We look forward to becoming an active part of the community, building meaningful relationships, and creating an environment that our players, families, and fans can be proud of. This organization has tremendous potential, and we are excited to help guide its future both on and off the ice.” Shannon would like to extend a special thank you to Cliff Smith, Theo Bet, Terry Lilley, and Paul Hurtubise for their assistance in making this a smooth transaction. She looks forward to them being involved with their current roles and the rest of the volunteers and game night staff.
Hockey Operations Vision
Tate Philips, General Manager and Director of Hockey Operations, shared his enthusiasm for the future of the hockey program.
“We are excited to bring Sarnia hockey back to where it belongs,” said Philips. “Our focus will be on developing players, creating a winning culture, and helping young athletes advance to the next level, whether that be junior, collegiate, or professional hockey. We enjoyed meeting the players and families at our Main Camp that was on June 6 and 7 at the Mooretown Sports Complex. This is an exciting time for hockey in Sarnia, and we cannot wait to get started.”
Building the Sarnia Hockey Pathway
Anthony Miele, President and Governor, emphasized the importance of establishing a complete development model within the Sarnia hockey community.
“In addition to everything that has already been announced, we are extremely proud to have established a hockey development partnership that creates a clear pathway for players within the Sarnia hockey community,” said Miele. “Our vision brings together Sarnia Sting Minor Hockey U18/U16 programs, the Sarnia Legionnaires GOHL program, and the OHL’s Sarnia Sting. This partnership creates a true hockey pyramid and development pathway for young athletes.”
“We want to show the Sarnia community and the hockey world what can be accomplished when organizations work together with a common purpose. By aligning our programs and focusing on player development, education, mentorship, and advancement opportunities, we are creating a model that will benefit players for years to come. We are committed to helping local athletes reach their full potential while strengthening hockey throughout the city of Sarnia.”
The ownership group is committed to establishing the Sarnia Legionnaires as one of the premier development programs in the GOHL while strengthening ties throughout the local hockey community.
Mark Guy- Owner and President – Sarnia Sting OHL
“It is great that we enter into this affiliation and partnership with the Sarnia Legionnaires. This has been a long time coming and we strongly believe in the process of developing hockey players, who could one day be a part of our organization. We would like to welcome the new ownership group to the city of Sarnia and the Sarnia Sting family. We are committed to developing hockey players and will put in the effort required to ensure it happens.”
Craig Spada- Commissioner Greater Ontario Hockey League
“On behalf of the Greater Ontario Hockey League, I am pleased to welcome Shannon O’Connor, Tate Philips, Anthony Miele, and their ownership group to the Sarnia Legionnaires organization. Their commitment to building a first-class junior hockey program, developing young athletes, and strengthening community connections reflects the values and vision of the GOHL. We are especially encouraged by their focus on creating a complete hockey pathway in Sarnia. As the Official Development League of the OHL, the GOHL is proud to support initiatives that provide players with exceptional opportunities to develop both on and off the ice. We look forward to working alongside this ownership group as they build a premier development program and an organization that the Sarnia community can be proud of for years to come.”
Additional announcements regarding player signings, hockey operations, player recruitment, staffing, and organizational initiatives will be made in the coming weeks.
The future of Sarnia Hockey starts now.
