Elora Hawks Join OJLL for 2026 Season
Ontario Lacrosse ASSOCIATION Approves Elora Hawks For Junior “A” Competition In 2026
TORONTO, ON – February 5, 2026 – The Ontario Lacrosse Association (OLA) has approved the Elora Hawks for competition in the Ontario Junior “A” Lacrosse League (OJLL) for the 2026 season.
The approval was granted by the OLA Board of Directors at its meeting on December 6, 2025, following a review of the application submitted by the Elora Hawks Junior “B” Lacrosse Club. The decision aligns with the OLA’s mandate to oversee and support the delivery of structured, sustainable junior lacrosse programming across the province.
Beginning in the 2026 season, the Elora Hawks Junior “B” program will be promoted to the Junior “A” level, representing the Township of Centre Wellington in the OJLL. The application demonstrated strong organizational readiness, competitive capacity, and a clearly defined player development pathway supported by the Centre Wellington Minor Lacrosse Association and the existing junior system within the community.
Centre Wellington has a long-standing history of success in lacrosse development, with consistent performance at the minor “A” level, sustained excellence in Junior “B” competition, active participation at the Junior “C” level through the Fergus Thistles, and a proven record of advancing athletes to the Junior “A” level. This established pathway has produced a clear and effective progression model for athletes advancing through the junior ranks. The placement of the Elora Hawks supports the OLA’s objective of aligning Junior “A” membership with communities that demonstrate strong governance, operational stability, and the capacity to support high-performance junior programming.
The Elora Hawks will continue to play their home games at the Jefferson Elora Community Centre in Elora, Ontario. Their placement at the Junior “A” level expands the OJLL to twelve teams for the 2026 season.
The OLA will continue to work with the OJLL and its member clubs as preparations for the 2026 season move forward.
About the Ontario Lacrosse Association
The Ontario Lacrosse Association (OLA) exists to grow, lead, promote and govern the sport of lacrosse within the province of Ontario. We bring together players, coaches, officials, volunteers, and fans in a shared commitment to uphold the values of respect, fair play, and community, ensuring a vibrant future for Canada’s national summer sport. For more information or to become involved, visit ontariolacrosse.com.
About the Ontario Junior Lacrosse League
The Ontario Junior “A” Lacrosse League (OJLL), established in 1933, is a men’s box lacrosse league operating under the governance of the Ontario Lacrosse Association (OLA). With roots dating back to the late 1800s, the league represents the highest level of junior lacrosse in Ontario and serves as a primary development pathway for elite athletes advancing to professional and international competition. The OJLL is the top provider of talent to the National Lacrosse League (NLL) and is considered the most competitive junior men’s box lacrosse league in the world. For more information, visit ontariojuniorlacrosse.com.
