Around the G: October 2026 Preview 

Around the G, presented by Access Storage, is your monthly look at what’s happening across the Greater Toronto Hockey League. 

October marks the official start of another GTHL season, with regular season action getting underway across all three competitive levels, tournaments returning to the calendar, development opportunities, and a full weekend dedicated to celebrating the start of the 2026-27 season. 

Here’s what’s happening Around the G this October. 

Referee Clinics – Entry Level and Re-Certification (Throughout October)

The GTHL will host a number of referee clinics throughout October for both new and returning officials. Clinics range from entry-level certification for those beginning their officiating journey to Level 1-6 re-certification opportunities for experienced referees. 

CLICK HERE for more information Referee Clinics.

GTHL ‘AA’ Regular Season Begins (October 5)

The 2026-27 GTHL ‘AA’ regular season gets underway on October 5, with teams from U10 through U18 beginning their 34-game schedules. 

GTHL ‘A’ Regular Season Begins (October 5)

The GTHL ‘A’ regular season also begins October 5 across all age groups from U10 to U18, with teams set to compete in 34 regular season games. 

Mississauga Early Bird Tournament (October 6-11)

The Mississauga Early Bird ‘AA’ Tournament returns for its 41st edition, hosted by the Mississauga Terriers. The annual event welcomes teams from U10 through U18 for six days of tournament action. 

CLICK HERE to learn more about the tournament.

Preseason Faceoff, Hosted by Forest Hill & Avenue Road (October 9-11)

Forest Hill and Avenue Road are joining forces once again to host the Preseason Faceoff for ‘A’ teams from U10 through U18. 

Taking place at Canlan Sports York, the non-contact tournament guarantees each team four games, along with a tournament gift for every player. 

CLICK HERE to learn more about the tournament.

GTHL ‘AAA’ Regular Season Begins (October 12)

The GTHL ‘AAA’ regular season gets underway on October 12, with teams from U10 through U18 beginning their 33-game regular season schedules. 

GTHL Girls Development Day (October 18)

The GTHL Girls Development Day returns on Sunday, October 18 at Scotiabank Pond as part of the League’s celebration of World Girls’ Ice Hockey Weekend. 

Designed specifically for female players, the event brings girls from across the GTHL together for a dedicated development experience focused on building skills, confidence, connection, and community both on and off the ice. 

CLICK HERE to learn more about GTHL Girls Development Day. 

Tyler Cragg Memorial Canadiens Cup Powered by Sports Illustrated Prospects (October 23-25)

The Toronto Jr. Canadiens will host the 44th annual Tyler Cragg Memorial Canadiens Cup at Scotiabank Pond, welcoming U10 to U15 ‘AAA’ teams for one of the early highlights of the tournament calendar. 

Each team is guaranteed a minimum of four games, with teams potentially playing up to seven throughout the weekend. 

CLICK HERE to learn more about the tournament. 

Esso GTHL Puck Drop Weekend (October 24-25)

The GTHL will officially celebrate the start of the 2026-27 season with Esso GTHL Puck Drop Weekend, taking place October 24-25 at Canlan Sports York. 

Regular season games will take over all six pads throughout the weekend, alongside activations from GTHL partners and vendors, bringing the League community together for a full weekend of hockey and season-opening celebrations. 

Stay tuned to GTHLCanada.com and GTHL social media platforms for more information.