Announced during OCHL Family Night on Friday prior to the Ridgebacks game at the Campus Ice Centre, this partnership will start immediately, but will fully be underway for the 2023-24 hockey seasons. This was a perfect fit for the two groups as the Ridgebacks are always looking to connect with grassroots programs and the community general. Ontario Tech's coaches will provide coaching assistance and resources to the OCHL and their coaches. The players will also attend and assist with OCHL practices and games at the Campus Ice Centre during the season. The goal of this is to not only provide on-ice assistance, but also develop relationships with and provide role models for all OCHL players. "Our men's hockey program could not be more excited about our new partnership with the Oshawa Community Hockey League," said head coach Curtis Hodgins. "This is a tremendous opportunity for our players and staff to invest ourselves at the grassroots level right here in our own community and to provide inspiration and role models for the young hockey players in the OCHL. We look forward to working with all the players, coaches, and executives of the OCHL and to having a mutually beneficial partnership for many years to come." Serving the residents of Oshawa since 1947, the OCHL provides recreational hockey with an emphasis on sportsmanship and fair play. "We are excited about the partnership with the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks men's hockey program as it will provide development opportunities for our players and coaches," said OCHL president Wayne Capes. "Both organizations are committed to this community and we look forward to partnering with the Ridgebacks both on and off the ice." Friday night was the second event between the two groups, following a skate with the Ridgebacks the first week of January with all OCHL players.