The Cobourg Cougars are enjoying a strong start to the 2026-27 OJHL season, establishing themselves as one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.
The team has continued to build momentum under new head coach Derek Smith and general manager Ryan Ramsay, following an off-season change in ownership and franchise operations.
Through 20 games, Cobourg has posted a 16-3-1 record, good for 33 points and second place in the OJHL Eastern Conference.
Ramsay is no stranger to hockey, having spent many years playing the game at a high level and cutting his teeth in major markets where hockey is not just a game, but a way of life.
The Cougars have shown they can win close games this season, including a pair of victories over the Toronto Warriors on consecutive nights, winning 4-2 on Nov. 8 and 3-2 in overtime at home on Nov. 9.
Ramsay says he draws on his own background when running the team rather than relying on any kind of predetermined model, and so far, it’s been a winning formula.
Ramsay says there are some similarities between Haliburton and their new home in Cobourg, but the two markets differ considerably in many respects.
Cobourg’s strong start has put the club among the conference contenders as it continues to establish its new identity.
Ramsay is confident that once fans realize there is a winning team on the ice, the fan base will return to the CCC in the droves it once did. He says it’s only a matter of time and a whole lot more wins.
The Cougars are back in action Friday, Nov. 13, against the Lindsay Muskies before visiting the Trenton Golden Hawks on Sunday, Nov. 15.
(Written By: Richard Evans)