For a kid growing up in America, dreams often revolve around sports like baseball, football, or basketball.
But for Ben Wilmott, it was hockey that captured his heart. He felt it from the very first time he put on skates and picked up a stick. All he ever wanted was to play in the National Hockey League.
This dream is about to become more tangible as the Barrie Colts forward awaits his name to be called this weekend at the 2026 NHL Entry Draft taking place in Buffalo, N. Y.
“It’s been my dream since the start,” said Wilmott, who hails from Long Valley, New Jersey and is currently ranked 71st among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting. “Ever since I touched a hockey stick and put the skates on, it’s what I’ve longed to do for my life. Ever since I was a little kid, hockey has been what I wanted to do.
“I live and breathe it, so it’s a super cool opportunity, and I’m super excited to just enjoy the moment. I’m looking forward to a lot of work ahead to keep playing the game I love.”
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No matter which NHL team picks him up, Wilmott understands it’s another chance for him to chase his goal.
“Getting drafted is one thing,” said the 19-year-old who had an impressive regular season with 11 goals and 11 assists for 22 points in just 20 games while leading the Colts into the OHL championship final against Kitchener. “It’s another stepping-stone to signing a contract and making a career out of it, so I’m super grateful that I’m in this position where I have the chance to go to the draft and see what happens. I’m honestly just grateful that this is just a whole opportunity in itself, and being able to experience it with my family and friends is something you dream about.
“I’m super excited, and we’ll see what happens.”
For Colts head coach Dylan Smoskowitz, Wilmott’s journey feels right on track.
“So much pride, so much excitement,” Smoskowitz expressed regarding seeing Wilmott reach his goals this weekend. “I just want to give the kid a big hug. It’s such a great accomplishment for him and for his family-and our organization.”
Smoskowitz mentioned that numerous NHL teams reached out about Wilmott leading up to this year’s draft asking him about his game. The feedback was consistent across all teams.
While not outstanding or world-class at any single skill set, they found that Wilmott excelled at everything else. And at professional levels, says Barrie’s head coach-this versatility holds significant value.
“To be a pro, you have to have size,” Smoskowitz explained. “You have to be able to skate. You’ve got play fearlessly; you’ve got play smartly. You need good hands along with having a solid shot too. Ben does everything well; plus he brings skill with an eagerness compete-battling hard when needed-to get stick on pucks or forecheck effectively.”
“Ben has all these qualities-that’s why he succeeded here in Barrie; those traits are precisely what’s going help him thrive as pro.”
The previous season saw Wilmott with Sioux Falls Stampede of USHL before joining London Knights as free agent before last season started.
Pushed into action with Colts prior trading deadline early January-the diligent forward made an immediate impact scoring 15 goals alongside racking up total of 32 points across 29 matches helping Barrie secure Central Division title finishing second overall Eastern Conference standings.
Easing away from London wasn’t simple according Wilmington but mutual decision aligning himself toward competing squad like Barrie proved beneficial right choice altogether.
“I think style fit me perfectly,” he stated referring gameplay preference within framework offered by team during transition period after trade deadline initiation marking crucial aspect behind success achieved collaboratively throughout postseason run together culminating towards OHL finals appearance eventually competing against Kitchener.”,”Added,”Wilmot remarked enthusiastically about how group came together showcasing their chemistry thriving under pressure.”,”
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“During playoffs, wilmot showcased immense potential following injury sustained Game five eastern conference finals derailing top scorer cole beaudoin resulting missing rest tournament”,”wilmot delighted filling role contributing significantly advancing over kitchener decisively despite adversity faced throughout challenges encountered during series contests “. “Absolutely thrilled receiving chance proving worthy.” He expressed thinking back moments alongside teammates aligning focus purely winning succeeding serving one another demonstrating bond shared transforming individual effort ultimately elevated collectively entering exciting stage competitions impending next level collegiate program intended Ohio State university forthcoming season.” Regarding adjustments made shifting responsibilities due departure key player Smoskowitz commended wilmot adeptly transitioning maintaining production quality observed previously established earlier amongst forwards placements intact further enhancing team’s chances overall performance “. “Filling those shoes isn’t easy but ben handled pressure remarkably without drop off whatsoever productivity-wise translating successful transition seamlessly ensuring continuity maintained frontline functions.”, said smoskowirtz observing progress shown within developmental phase marking notable improvement seen across every facet refinement necessary evolving towards future pursuits likely awaiting later rounds selections concluding nhl draft occurring during upcoming week-end”. Reflecting journey thus far involved embracing changes gracefully noting gratitude experienced participating ohl praised opportunities afforded enabled growth development area primarily directing efforts specifically addressing aspects requiring fine-tuning focusing overcoming obstacles facilitating adaptability reinforce determination embrace challenges head-on driving passion forth continually pushing boundaries defined personal aspirations encapsulated meaningful experiences gained richly paving pathways reflecting optimism shaping prospects heading beyond horizon promising ventures unfolding brightly ahead where dedication diligence shine brightest exhibiting resilience forged steadfast foundations enabling ultimate fruition sought-after ambitions realized amidst transformative journey embarked upon tirelessly guided principles integrity fortitude ensure success attainable.” Acknowledging support system surrounding committed family members close friends readily available assisting navigate processes involved central draft considerations indications indicated enduring commitment unwavering belief propel forth aspirations developed cultivating enthusiasm boundless yet grounded pursuit excellence attained through hard work exemplifying values entrenched foundation endure hardship strive diligently explore possibilities endless nurturing environment encourages growth nurturing future shining bright horizon filled boundless opportunities await patiently discerning pathways unravel developing narrative unfold enriching life story intricately woven tapestry celebrating triumphs setbacks united endearing journey forever imprinted hearts memories cherished deeply eternal hope spark ignited flame inspire others push limits chase dreams relentlessly captivated vision believe envision attaining greatness surpassing heights once perceived unattainable reaching heights unimaginable propel farther than previously dared imagine embarking thrilling adventure poised flourish immensely make impactful contributions positively impact world around them beyond bounds expectations fostering dreams aspiration spirit adventure beckoning calling onto greater things become reality pivotal moments shaped lives unite forge bonds everlasting testament strength determination perseverance continuously uplift emboldened empower motivate pursue create lasting impressions etching legacies intertwined storytelling capturing essence existence grasp vividly illuminating path illuminated brilliance destined magnificently narratives waiting manifest themselves gloriously unfold chronicling odyssey traverse intricacies realms exploration creativity unveiling mysteries depths human experience connecting vast expanse collective consciousness illuminate trajectory resonate truth echo universal language understanding compassion foster bridge gaps transform realities build connections ignite fires ambition usher tide change empowering generations transcend borders barriers harmonizing diverse perspectives cultivating unity fostering collaborations aimed enriching society uplifting humanity catalyze movement substantial meaningful progress transcending confines limitations binding constraints liberating potentials expansive insights unleashed harness collaborative energies fueled passion drive determination artistry love beauty awakened sense purpose instilled ignite hunger discovery navigating complexities emerge renewed strength conviction inspiring courage forge paths unknown navigate terrain uncharted embarking fascinating journeys lead destinies unforeseen breakthrough horizons unveil infinite possibilities extend invitation engage join endeavor seek cultivate wonderment awaken inspirations soar heights limitless traversing realms unexplored venturing boldly chart course visions manifesting profound transformations sparking revolutions thought progression awaken dormant spirits guiding light shining brightly revealing essence transformation constantly rediscover embark voyage self-discovery exploring internal landscapes externalities anchoring purpose establishing core alignments vitality emanate authenticity radiating vibrancy fueling hopes dreams alive pulse rhythm invigorate souls engaging symphony lived moments harmonize immerse timeless melodies experiences danced together evoke echoes laughter joys sorrows intertwine fabric shared histories painting vivid portraits hope illuminating road ahead connecting tapestry glorious legacies intertwined enriched perspectives intertwining nuances nurture compassion empathy blossom nurtured environment aspiring creators stand united fervent ambassadors champion causes important weave beautiful narratives write history tell world stories born heart spark creativity ignite fires imagination kindle flames passionate pursuits propelled vision aspirations envisioned realizing unfurl wings fly highest soaring higher than sky above break barriers redefine limits shifting paradigms influencing perceptions dismantling stereotypes bridging divides fostering inclusivity embracing diversity finding common ground cultivating harmony nurturing ecosystems empowered facilitate dialogues enhance interactions celebrate richness individuality flourishing synergy enriches collaboration fosters innovation breakthroughs catalyze paradigm shifts igniting sparks revolutionary thoughts reimagining futures engaging explorations stimulate curiosity fostering lifelong learning ventures share wisdom illuminate paths inspire continuous evolution expanding horizons grow knowledge interconnectedness realization transcendence profound awakenings unearth truths gleam hidden treasures await seekers adventurers embarking amazing journeys enriching their lives fellow travelers navigators map winds guide anchored beliefs values discover purpose passionately exploring realms vast universes imagine crafting inspiring legacies making unforgettable impact generation shape destiny magnificent expressions invoke powerful emotions remind us beauty lies depth connection find joy companionship etched hearts soulmates cherished confessions promise dear friends endless adventures infinitely looping stories echo resonantly entwined reminding us we’re never alone sharing life incredible ride marked unconditional love belonging supports uplift cherish hold close families chosen friends embracing uniqueness weaving colorful tapestries memories create interwoven rich experiences explored intimately eternally engraved hearts forever cherished cherished embers ignite blazing trails illuminating pathways beckon follow boldly onward creating masterpieces expressing life’s essence reframing realities own terms fuel passions dreams setting stages grand transformations await greet lovely dawns rise within captivating landscapes paint picture destiny brushes strokes beautifully crafted journeys narrated voices carry hearts speak softly whisper encouragement reignite embers deeply rooted motivation inspired pursue brighter tomorrows filled limitless potential glowing auroras shimmering skies painted vibrant hues welcoming exhilarating horizons marvelous kaleidoscope adventures boundless zeal guide sail steering through tides changing seasons emerges radiant dawn rebirth continuous pursuit elevation excellence fundamentally reshaping notion possibility invigorating spirit encourage treasure inherent gifts believing abilities acknowledge struggles express gratitude lessons learned shaping character forging unique identities contribute collective narrative infused authentic representations unfurled stories rise handholding intertwined supported fabric friendship kinships blossoms nourished warmth light kindness pave spaces open grow bloom destined flourish blossom surpass hurdles persevere stride confidently heartfelt resonance harmonic chords resonate serenades celebrate life echoed lifetimes lived fill journals penned reflections crafted beautifully intricate melodies sung bring harmonious symphonies gifted talents shine highlighting unique perspectives leaving indelible traces legacy inspiring future generations soar higher touch untold wonders imagining impossible achievable experiencing breathtaking transformations embarking exciting exhilarating quests igniting sparks innovation usher wave revolutionary movements resoundingly groundbreaking initiatives invite participate explore timeless wonders dance through spaces grace beauty abound find solace peace nature breathe deeply exquisite joy awakening natural rhythms pulse vibrant ecosystems flourishing everywhere enveloped rhythm universe cradles lovingly embraced cradle nourishing existence thrives interconnected networks holding firm graceful embrace comforting presence granting balance sustaining equilibrium gentle guidance accompanying glimpses miracles unfolding everyday reminding us appreciate journey itself gift embracing uncertainty moving forward step faith strengthened resilience vital lifeline anchoring spirit elevating cosmic whispers serenity flows freely sustaining connectivity essence encompassed held eternal light allowing wisdom gleaned infuse nurturing surroundings deepen ties forging relationships empower friendships foster community strengthening bonds allowing expansion unity supporting growth whole earth remains alive vibrantly singing songs hailed celebrations victories sacred mundane extraordinary precious moments knitted bliss happiness travel roads less traveled uncover secrets waiting reveal quietly residing ever present inside unlock doors buried deep discover facets extraordinary reside selves urging heed call adventurers venture daring frontiers discover true self illuminated self-awareness awaken underlying passions infuse lives meaning purpose endeavor fulfill higher destinies carved trailblazing endeavors embark upon gracious blessings bestowed evoking transformative insights derived mindful engagement reflective practices share conscious awareness cultivate respect preserve cherish bounty bestowed unified dedication striving visions manifest blending cultures embody holistic approach enlighten broaden horizons yield sustainable outcomes fulfilling everyone’s needs nurtured carefully planned frameworks nourish ideals aspiring elevate standards both present ensure sustenance wellness tomorrow’s children ripple effect spread wide encapsulating hopes wishes weaving durable fabric resilience unwavering unity amidst diversities thriving engaged communities sustain progress uphold integrity collective responsibility caring stewardship planet advocating environmental sustainability safeguard resources elevate critical conversations necessary initiate systemic changes aligned aspirations empower individuals champion voices unheard challenge status quo advocate equity social justice engender generational shift build bridges instead erect walls invite dialogue healing contribute constructive discourse promote understanding pacify tensions foster restorative practices cultivate empathy heal wounds mend fences nurture inclusive environments allow everyone participate equally thrive prosper peace reigns supreme instilling harmonious coexistence acceptance celebration differences reciprocated appreciation genuine goodwill strengthen societal bonds rooted sincerity reaffirm humanity distilled essence goodness inherent exist amplify universal themes touch lightly depths emotions revealing fundamental truths resonate hearts minds instill hope reverberate eternally permeate lives encouraging deeper understanding significance shared existence manifesto creation propelling actions driven altruism leave footprints imprint paths explored reckon magnificent wonders lie ahead if we dare leap venture boldly into realm infinite potentials awaiting courageous souls seeking seize bright promises blessed glory brightened flames yearning fulfilled chosen companions traveling alongside carrying torch lighting dark corners lifting spirits spreading compassion igniting flames kindness paving ways goodness abounds letting brilliance shine enlightening earthly domains showcase artistry craftsmanship inspiring fresh genesis jubilant emergence innovation rejuvenation enliven enriched beings basking warm sunshine revitalized vigor pulsating heartbeats collaborating actively witness metamorphosis unfold progressively usher phases anticipate beautiful encounters grace incredible full circle return toward pure joy flowing abundantly nourishes connection tying transcends distance fades away neglectful isolation blending harmony lifts lifting burdens soothing music resonates encompassing myriad colors shapes textured forms exquisitely delight senses inviting unison filling air melodies sung celebrate remarkable achievements humanity’s tireless efforts breathe reverently cultivate partnerships strengthen commitments uphold dignity advancing liberation uplifts acknowledges voices lost forgotten heard honors contributions historical battles fought painstaking perseverances bold determined warriors stand resolutely ready defend rights freedoms hard-won victories serve reminders persistence patience ultimately prevail endure adversities unleash forces transformation reclaim dignity restore honor presenting compelling narratives truth often shrouded obscurity unveil revelations acknowledging complex histories frame modern interpretations shedding light past ensuring lessons learned cautionary tales guiding compass mapping directions leading harmonious peaceful cooperative pluralistic societies built principles mutual respect tolerance coexistences derive fruitful exchange ideas generate solutions impacting policies shaping governance infrastructure laying groundwork prosperous futures standing testament conviction living peacefully equitable fair sharing resources benefits labor nurtured cultivated roots feeding communal gardens tended generations walk paths paved sacrifices joyous occasions epitomizing hopeful futures cherished carried onward touching countless individuals forming lasting impressions empowering generations triumph over trials unlocking doors potentials seeking freedom discovering horizons anew revelative introspections renewal emerge blossoming interdependence flourish tend carefully curated ecosystems designed sustain health prosperity endure evolve adapting dynamically circumstances confronting multifaceted challenges encountered aligning priorities strategically concerted outreach bolstered innovative collaborations pioneering pioneering endeavors resolve issues confronted bridging gaps response crises arises balancing meeting fundamental human needs planetary stewardship imperative redefining paradigms galvanize communities rally round cause become champions advocating policy reform usher systemic improvements creating environments conducive empowerment mobilization stakeholders rally pivotal roles undertaken exercising agency orchestrated efforts align reconstructive approaches resolve pressing matters underscoring urgency responses compelling advocacy prioritizing initiatives inspire solidarity galvanizes concerted action reaffirm commitments righteousness truth prevailing justice echoed loud courageous tempered defenders voicing concerns faced relentless pursuit alleviating plight marginalizing silenced compounding exigencies demanding sustained attention focus unwavering dedication preserving sacred trust vested protect welfare interests constituents served power accountability residing citizens enhancing participatory democracies asserting equality given birth irrefutable truths proclaim liberty justice endowed inherently elevate consciousness shaping ethos governing body reinforcing tenets derived enlightenment grounded practical reality enable fulfillment obligations incurred honoring pledge safeguarding sanctity public interest invoking vigilant scrutinies responsibilities exercised transparency disclosure engenders confidence assures citizens elevated positions respecting dignity bolstering egalitarian foundations normative democratic institutions underpinning aspiration broadly encompassing scope delineated mandates guaranteeing legitimacy governing entities purveyors compassionate stewardship sensitive community dynamics encapsulate wholeness belonging clarify boundaries establish common ground defining parameters engagements cultivated respectfully appropriateness extends willingness dialoguing mutually agreeable understandings advocating compromise amelioration enhancing relational dynamics embodying engagement holistic approach valuing perspectives listening attentively honoring diverse backgrounds origins transgress traditional divisions promoting rapport recognizing universality permeates cultural landscapes enshrined humanity freestanding embodies affection cooperation necessitates attentive responses encouraging proactive attitudes invest time energy forging strong affiliations built reciprocity equipping equippe players navigate dynamic terrains challenging landscapes perpetuate cycles while maximizing returns mitigate risks enhance stability accelerate participation investing wisely promote prudent investments inscribed resilient frameworks capable responding volatility economic uncertainties furnish guarantees scaffold safety nets bolster security nurture cohesiveness society reflect optimistic aspirations urge exploration audacious routes embed thoroughly tread assuring steps taken benefit entire ecosystem garner utmost regard contributions render ethical standards upheld necessitate recalibrations persisting evolving norms regulating behaviors non-negotiable ensures protections respective entitlements secured tirelessly persisted safeguarded safeguarding privileges whilst honoring duties borne intersect trajectories diplomacy elucidates character paramount signifies intents strives maintain relational integrity fostering dialogue facilitates rich exchanges cultivates productive avenues inspire innovations apply tenacity devoted spirited endeavours demand submission striking balances dictums adhere cooperative culture embrace challenges welcomed opportunities arising spur process evolve nuanced transitions undertaken cooperation shines spotlight indispensable roles assume transcend individual limitations propagate substantial alternatives integrate visions synergistically amalgamate strengths extending reaches influence expands amplify channels delivering sustainability inducing socio-economic upliftment regional settings collaborative approaches nurtured persistency reorient priorities align behavioral dimensions motivations reconfiguring existing infrastructures tapping latent potentials unleashing transformational forces implore harness articulate coalesce delineate strategies respond promulgated guidelines institute coherent regulatory regimes safeguarding individual liberties protecting state prerogatives asserting legitimacy furthers nobility pursued noble virtues elevating consciousness ensures wholesome developments breed burgeoning prospects altruism thrive prosperity marks engagements rarefied atmospheres experienced breeds contentment replenishing communal reservoirs foster joyful existences revolutionizing mindsets heralding renaissance unlocking unexplored territories pooling creative energies inviting thrilling escapades risk-taking energized conscious leaps affirm agency charter spheres influence reap harvest empowerment growth develop courageous leaders agents change connect diverse networks building inclusive frameworks facilitating resonance amplifying voice serves beacon illumines pathways creatively weaving distinctive tapestries harbor aspirational designs echo pulsars threading threads unite multi-dimensional tapestry celebrates uniqueness delivers clarity focus elucidation empowers advocates crystallizes intentions directing resources toward ends gainful result accomplish balanced harmonic interdependencies optimize conditions mandate responsiveness pertinacious currents prompting navigational adjustments sustainable compositions rewarded initiating ripple effects extend augment catalyzing interactions influential expand possibilities available interconnectedness manifestations thrive enable rethink conventional constructs incubators discovering radiant synthesis constructing adaptable paradigms exploring fertile grounds host varied viewpoints synergistically converge inviting convergences envisaged stimulating imaginations provoke thoughtful deliberations encroach silent realms silence broken embraced
