Wikipedia

Windsor Spitfires

TheWindsor Spitfiresare a Canadianjunior ice hockeyteam in theOntario Hockey League(OHL). The team is based inWindsor, Ontario,Canada. Founded in 1971, the franchise was promoted to theOntario Major Junior Hockey Leaguefor the1975–76 season.[3]An unrelatedWindsor Spitfiresteam, founded in 1946, moved to become theHamilton Tiger Cubsin 1953, and later became theErie Ottersin 1996.[3]

Windsor Spitfires
CityWindsor, Ontario
LeagueOntario Hockey League
ConferenceWestern
DivisionWest
Founded1971–72 (Tier II Junior A)
1975(1975)–76(Tier I Junior A)
Home arenaWFCU Centre
ColoursBlue, white, red
Owner(s)John Savage, Stephen Savage, Brian Schwab[1]
General managerBill Bowler
Head coachGreg Walters[2]
AffiliateLaSalle Vipers(GOJHL)
Websitewindsorspitfires
Championships
Playoff championshipsOHL Champions:1988, 2009, 2010
Memorial Cup:2009, 2010, 2017
SOJHL Champions:1974
Current uniform

History

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Theoriginal Spitfiresin the Ontario Hockey Association played from 1945 to 1953.[3]The nameSpitfireswas chosen to honour the417 Combat Support Squadron,aRoyal Canadian Air Force squadronnicknamed "City of Windsor" established duringWorld War IIinEngland(today based atCFB Cold LakeinAlberta), and used theSupermarine Spitfirefighter aircraft.[4]During this period the Spitfires reached the league finals twice, and featured four futureHockey Hall of Fameplayers. Prior to 1945, local junior hockey was divided up into the six-team Windsor Junior Hockey League. The Spitfires folded in 1953 as hockey interests in Windsor chose to focus their attention on theOHA Senior A Hockey League,which resulted in the founding of theWindsor Bulldogs.Eventually five former Spitfires laced up with the Bulldogs and one, Bobby Brown, won anAllan Cupwith the team (1963). The Bulldogs folded in 1964 after one season in theInternational Hockey League.

Tier II Junior A

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The modern Windsor Spitfires started as a Tier II Junior A team that played in theSouthern Ontario Junior A Hockey Leaguefrom 1971 to 1975. The Spitfires first game as a franchise was inGuelph, Ontario,against theGuelph CMC'son October 1, 1971. The Spitfires lost the game 11–3, withLaurie Greganscoring the first two goals in team history in the first period. Fifteen-year-old goaltenderLarry Verlindeplayed the entire first game in team history, making 37 saves in the loss.[5]The home game and first victory in team history occurred on October 7, 1971, at theWindsor Arenaagainst theChatham Maroons,winning 4–2 on the back of futureNHLgoaltenderEddie Miowho made 49 saves.Dean Sheremetascored the winning goal.[6]

The Spitfires finished their first season with a record of 21 wins, 32 losses, and 3 ties. Finishing sixth place out of eight teams, the Spitfires drew local rival Chatham Maroons in a best-of-seven league quarter-final. The Maroons, who finished third with 33 wins, 17 losses, and 6 ties, were favoured to win.[7]The Spitfires' first playoff game took place on February 23, 1972, inChatham, Ontario,for a 3–2 win over the Maroons to take a one-game lead in the series. GoaltenderBryan Rosemade 35 saves in the winning effort, while the Spits' first playoff goal and later winning goals were scored byWolf Hiesl,both in the second period.[8]The Spitfires lost the next four games to the Maroons to end their season.[9]

The 1972–73 season, the Spitfires second season, finished with their first winning record – 30 wins, 21 losses, and 9 ties. Finishing third in a league of seven teams, the Spitfires drew the fourth placeNiagara Falls Flyers(28–25–7) in the league quarter-final. The Spits dropped game one 6–4 inNiagara Falls,while in game two the Spits tied the series with a 6–4 win of their own at home. Back in Niagara, the Flyers shellacked the Spitfires 7–2 to take the series lead again. The fourth game was a disaster for the Spitfires, at home they blew a third period deadlock to lose 7–5 and fall behind in the series 3-games-to-1. In game five, the Spitfires needed to make a change. FutureIHLerTony Piroskiand partnerJean Pominvillehad uninspired starts in games three and four and were replaced by third-string goalie, and futureNHLer,Rick Heinz.Heinz had spent the season in Junior B with the Spitfires' farm teamWindsor Royalsand was new to the pressure of Junior A playoff hockey. The gamble paid off, as an inspired Spitfire squad won the game 9-4 while Heinz capped of a 24-save night for the victory.[10]In game six, coach Jerry Serviss returned to his starting goalie,Tony Piroski,in net on the road. Piroski rewarded his coach's confidence with a 5–4, 33-save victory - evening the series at 3 games each. Mark Smith scored the eventual game winner for the Spitfires.[11]Game seven saw the two teams return for a final showdown at theWindsor Arena.The Spitfires would take the game 6–3 in front of a capacity crowd of 5,189 fans.[12]The victory, winning in seven games, was the Spitfires' first ever playoff series victory. Waiting for them, rested for the semi-final, was the first placeGuelph Biltmore Mad Hatters(39–13–8). The Biltmores, defendingNational Champions,made short work of the Spitfires sweeping them in four games.[13]

Slater Koekkoek(December 2013)

The 1973–74 season would prove to be the defining moment of the Spitfires stint in Tier II Junior A. Headed by new head coach and general managerWayne Maxner,the Spitfires won the Southern Ontario Junior A regular season title with a record of 39 wins, 15 losses, and 8 ties. Their record would put them four points ahead of the second placeWelland Sabresand automatically give them a berth into the league playoff semi-finals.Scott Millerwould win the SOJHL scoring title with 73 goals and 125 points over the course of the season.[14]The Spitfires semi-final opponent was their cross-river rivalDetroit Jr. Red Wings.The Red Wings had finished the season in fifth out of eight teams (31–25–6). The semi-final opened up at the Windsor Arena with a 7–1 win for the Spitfires. They were at theDetroit Olympiafor game two, another romp for Windsor as they won 8–0. Back in Windsor, the Spitfires won game three 9–2. At the Olympia for game four, the Red Wings attempted to stage some resistance, but the Spitfires were too much, winning 7–5. The four-game sweep of the Red Wings allowed Windsor to rest up for the winner of theChatham MaroonsandWelland Sabres,a series just starting.[15]On March 16, 1974, the Spitfires engaged long time foeChatham Maroonsat the Windsor Arena in the first game of the SOJHL Final. The Maroons fell in that first game 6–1, but rebounded the next night inChathamwith a 5–2 victory of their own. On March 18, goalieDennis Thorpe's 40 save performance and third period game winner byGary Armstronggave the Spitfires a 2–1 home victory and a lead in the series.[16]The Spitfires took game four in Chatham with a 6–4 win. The next night, March 21, the Spitfires defeated the Maroons in Windsor 4–3 to clinch the SOJHL playoff championship.Gary Armstrongwould score yet another winning goal in the series. Before a crowd of 5,117 fans, team captainHugh Mitchellhoisted the Jack Oakes Memorial Trophy to celebrate their playoff victory.[17]The Spitfires were now in the hunt for the1974 Centennial Cup,the National Championship of Tier II Junior A hockey. The first team in their way, in theDudley Hewitt CupEastern Canada playdowns was theWexford Raidersof theOntario Provincial Junior A Hockey League.Also on the line was theOntario Hockey AssociationJunior A championship, the Buckland Cup. The Spitfires took game one in Rexdale with a 4–2 victory. Back in Windsor the next night, the Spitfires seemed to have the series in control with a 5–2 win. The Raiders had other things in mind, winning at home in game three 6–2 and then taking it to Windsor in their own arena 4–1 to tie the series. Back in Rexdale, the Raiders crushed the Spitfires with an 8–2 victory. With their back against the wall, the Spits had to win at home to force game seven. A 7–5 victory for the Spitfires turned this into a series for the ages. On April 6, 1974, the Spitfires season came to an end, as the Wexford Raiders took a 6–3 victory at home to advance to the next round of national playdowns.[18]Scott Millerwould be named the team's most valuable player.[14]

The Windsor Spitfires applied for expansion to the OMJHL (later known as the OHL) during their 1974 playoff run, but were rejected due to the "unacceptability of Windsor Arena as a major A facility." Their farm team, theWindsor RoyalsJunior B team of theGreat Lakes Junior Hockey Leagueput in a rival bid but were also rejected due to lack of an acceptable arena.[19]

In 1974–75,Jim Butchercoached the Spits to a second straight regular season title with a record of 40 wins, 15 losses, and 5 ties, 11 points ahead of the second placeWelland Sabres(30–16–14).John Tavellawon the league scoring title with 54 goals and 117 points and goaltenderFloyd St. Cyrled the league with the fewest goals against.[20]The Spitfires' first opponent in the playoff semi-final was the last placeDetroit Jr. Red Wings(15–38–9). At home, the Spits took game one 11–2. Back at theDetroit Olympia,the Spits won 8–2. Again in Windsor, the Spits took game three 10–1. The Spits had the chance to clinch in game four, but the Red Wings refused to let their season end in front of their Detroit faithful winning 5–3. Game five, in Windsor,Ian Campbellwould score a late third period tally to break a 2–2 deadlock and send the Spitfires to the league finals. The fourth placeGuelph Bilmores(23–31–6) stood in the way of the Spitfires. The Biltmores had upset the second placeWelland Sabresin the league quarter-final in five games and the third placeChatham Maroons8-points-to-6 (3 wins, 2 losses, 2 ties) and were looking to shock the Spitfires too. The Biltmores had caused trouble for the Spitfires all season as their head-to-head record was 5 wins each and 2 ties in 12 matches.[21]After a week layoff, the Spitfires were up against a hot opponent and were missing scoring championJohn Tavellato a three-games suspension for butt-ending against Detroit. The Spits dropped the first game, at home, 6–5 after giving up a late 2-on-1 odd-man rush late in the third period. The next night, in Guelph, the Spitfires led 6–1 in the first and 8–4 in the second to blow the lead in the third and finish with a 9–9 overtime tie. The Spitfires tied up the series in game three with a 4–2 win in Windsor. In Guelph for game four, the Spitfires blew a first period 3–0 lead to lose 6–4. Game five saw the Spitfires tie the series at five points a piece with an 8–4 win at home. Guelph again gained the advantage in game six with a 6–4 win at home. In a last gasp for air, the Spitfires fought to win a 6–4 decision in Windsor to tie the series at 7 points each and force a final eighth game - winner take all. The eighth game proved to be the Spitfires' last game of Tier II Junior A, as they traveled to Guelph and blew a 3–0 lead to lose the game (6–5) and the series (9-points-to-7) to end their four-year trek in theSouthern Ontario Junior A Hockey League.[22]

The Spitfires were granted entry into the OMJHL (later known as the OHL) as an expansion franchise for the1975–76 OMJHL seasonin February 1975. The league's board of governors unanimously accepted the Spitfires despite their arena's surface being smaller than Major Junior A standards. The Spitfires' had pumped $200,000 into the arena over the past two years, so the league overlooked the surface size despite taking issue with it in their 1974 rejection of the Spitfires' expansion bid.[23]

Major Junior

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On September 25, 1975, Major Junior hockey returned to theWindsor Arenafor the first time in twenty-two years. In front of 4,335 fans, the Windsor Spitfires hosted theOshawa Generals.The game would be an eye-opener for the Spitfires, as they were defeated 10–1 by the Generals.Wayne Millsstarted in net for the Spits, but would be later relieved by back-upBob Parentwhen the Generals made it 7–0 at 11:29 of the second period. The two goaltenders combined for 30 saves, as the Spits were outshot 40–23.Rolly Hedgesscored the first Major Junior goal in team history at 18:48 of the second period.[24]

On October 2, 1975, the Spitfires would tally their first ever Major Junior win. At home, the Spits were hosting theSudbury Wolves.Despite being outshot 60–34, the Spitfires overcame a six-goal deficit to defeat the Wolves 11–10. After trailing 7–1 only 2:49 into the second period, the Spitfires were able to chip the lead down to 9–7 by the second intermission.Charlie Skjodtscored to make it 9–9 to complete the comeback, just to have the Wolves score with 6:33 to go in the game to make it 10–9.Charles Bosnyak,a member of the 1974–75 Tier II Spitfires, scored 32 seconds later to make it 10–10 and captainMark Perrasscored with 43 seconds remaining to win the Spits' first ever Major Junior game.Bob Parentwould make 50 saves to cap off the historic victory.[25]

The "Spits" as they are commonly known, won their firstEmms divisiontitle in 1980 and reached the OHL finals, but lost to thePeterborough Petes.Ernie Goddenset an all-time OHL record in 1980–81 scoring 87 goals. In 1984Peter Karmanos,the founder and CEO ofCompuware,bought the team and renamed them theWindsor Compuware Spitfires.

In the 1987–88 season, the culmination of a well-executed four-year plan saw the Compuware Spitfires win 35 of their last 36 games, become the first team to go undefeated in the OHL playoffs, and sweep the Peterborough Petes in the OHL Championship finals to win theJ. Ross Robertson Cup.During the season, the Compuware Spitfires were dominant, with a record of 54-0 when leading after two periods. Having earned the right to represent the OHL in the 1988Memorial Cuphosted inChicoutimi,Quebec,the Compuware Spitfires advanced to the Championship game, where their string of success ended, losing to theMedicine Hat Tigers.

Karmanos sold the team to local construction magnateSteve Rioloafter the 1988–89 season, and the team reverted the Windsor Spitfires name and adopted their modern logo.

Conflict, renewal, tragedy

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Renaud's memorial display at the WFCU Centre
Andrew Engelage looks on, wearing Spitfires throwback jersey (November 2008).

On October 18, 2005,Head CoachMoe Manthawas handed a 40-game suspension and later terminated without pay, for ahazingincident that occurred aboard a bus after a pre-season game versus theLondon Knights.An altercation involving playersSteve DownieandAkim Aliu,in which Aliu lost four teeth, led to public exposure of the compulsive hazing within the Spitfires organization. Downie was traded to thePeterborough Petes,and Aliu was traded to theSudbury Wolves.

On April 6, 2006, the Ontario Hockey League Board of Governors announced the approval of a new ownership group for the Windsor Spitfires, composed ofBob Boughner,Warren Rycheland Peter Dobrich. All three men had history in Windsor with OHL hockey, and the group had expressed hope to move the team into a new arena. Boughner assumed the roles of President, CEO and head coach of the Spitfires, Rychel was named director of player development, and Dobrich the new business manager.

On February 18, 2008, team captain andCalgary Flamesprospect[26]Mickey Renauddied of an undetected heart condition[27]in hisTecumseh, Ontario,home. General ManagerWarren Rychelreferred to Renaud's death as "the biggest tragedy in Spitfire history".[28]His number was retired by both the Spitfires[29]and theTecumseh ChiefsJunior B franchise[30]that he played on before graduating to Major Junior. MayorEddie Francisnamed a road leading to theWFCU Centrein Renaud's honour,Mickey Renaud Way.[29]At the 2009 OHL All-Star Game at theWFCU Centrein Windsor, OHL CommissionerDavid Branchannounced that theMickey Renaud Captain's Trophywould be awarded to the "team captain that best exemplifies leadership on and off the ice as well as hard work, passion and dedication to the game of hockey and their community" in honour of Renaud.[31]

2008–09 season

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The Windsor Spitfires finished the 2008–09 season with 57 wins, 10 losses, and 1 shootout loss.[32]This marked their best season in franchise history. With the first overall record in theOntario Hockey Leaguethe Spitfires were awarded theHamilton Spectator Trophy.[32]The Spitfires also played their final games in theWindsor Arena.[33]The Spits were undefeated at home in the Old Barn during the 2008–09 season. Mid-season they moved to theWFCU Centre.[33]The Spitfires and their new arena played host to the 2009 All-Star Game.[34]On May 12, GoalieAndrew Engelagebroke the OHL record for most wins by a goaltender in a single season with 46 with a 5–1 win over thePlymouth Whalers.[35]

In the first round of the playoffs, the Spitfires walked all over theOwen Sound Attack,taking the series in four games.[36]In the next round, the Spits found thePlymouth Whalersto be a more formidable opponent. After trading off-road wins, then trading off home wins, the Spits took Games 5 and 6 to clinch the series.[37]In the Western Conference final, the Spits played their nemesis theLondon Knights.Led byJohn Tavares,the Knights were a tough opponent. Every game in the series went to overtime, but the Spitfires were victorious and won the series 4-games-to-1 to earn a berth to the OHL Final and take theWayne Gretzky Trophyas Conference champions.[38]The OHL Final began with a 10–1 victory for the Spitfires over the Eastern Conference'sBrampton Battalionled by starsCody HodgsonandMatt Duchene.The series became much tighter from there as the Spits took Game 2 5–3. The Battalion fought back in Game 3, winning 4–2. Game 4 belonged to the Spitfires as they took a 4–1 win and a 3–1 series lead. Game 5 was a tight affair, as the Spitfires took a 1–0 lead midway through the second period on the power play. Brampton tied the game up late in the third period to force overtime. At 2:09 of the first overtime period,Taylor Hallscored on the power play to win the Spitfires their secondJ. Ross Robertson Cupas league champions and a berth into the2009 Memorial Cup.[39]The victory was the Spitfires' first league title since the1987–88 OHL seasonand marked their second time playing for theMemorial Cup.[40]On May 9, Mayor ofWindsorEddie Francisawarded the team with theKey to the Cityin honour of their achievement.[41]

At the2009 Memorial Cup,the Spitfires dropped their first two games inRimouski3–2 in overtime to theDrummondville Voltigeursand 5–4 to theRimouski Océanic.[42]In a do-or-die game, the Spitfires won the final game of the round robin 2–1 over theKelowna Rocketsto gain entry to the tie-breaker game.[43]In the tie-breaker, Windsor defeated the hometown Océanic 6-4 powered by a third period natural hat-trick by Dale Mitchell.[44]The tournament semi-final was between the Spitfires and the Voltigeurs. The Spitfires blew an early 2–0 lead, but won 3–2 in overtime from a goal byAdam Henrique[45]to become the second team ever to play in the Memorial Cup final after playing in the tie-breaker game.[46]In the final, the Spitfires again played the Rockets. The Spitfires scored on their first three shots and cruised to a 4–1 win to take their first everMemorial Cupchampionship. Their victory marked the first time a team started with two losses in the Memorial Cup round robin and came back to win the championship.[47]The feat also marks the first time that a team has survived the Memorial Cup tie-breaker game to win the championship.[48]TheStafford Smythe Memorial Trophywas awarded toTaylor Hallas Memorial Cup playoffs most valuable player. BothRyan Ellisand Hall were elected to the tournament's All-Star Team.[49]Throughout the Memorial Cup tournament, the Spitfires hungMickey Renaud's jersey on their bench and the championship was won in Renaud's memory.[49]

In the aftermath of the championship, the team was met at theWindsor Airportby a large contingent of local fans and was addressed by MayorEddie Francis.[50]It was announced that the road to the newWFCU Centrewould be renamedMemorial Cup Drivein honour of the victory.[51]

2009–10 season

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The Spitfires came back in 2009–10 with a second straight 50-plus win season, finishing with a record of 50 wins, 12 losses, 1 overtime loss, and 5 shootout losses. Their record was good enough to earn the top seed in the Western Conference, but not good enough to clinch their second straightHamilton Spectator Trophy,won by theBarrie Colts(57-9-0-2). For being the top team in their division, the Spitfires were awarded their second straightBumbacco Trophy.Taylor HalltiedTyler Seguinof thePlymouth Whalersfor the league's scoring lead, and both were awarded theEddie Powers Memorial Trophyas scoring co-champions. The Spitfires also played host to theCHL Top Prospects Game.

The Spitfires sent six players to the2010 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.DefencemanRyan Ellisand forwardsTaylor Hall,Adam Henrique,andGreg Nemiszplayed for silver medalist Canada, defencemanCam Fowlerplayed for gold medalist United States, and forwardRichard Panikplayed for Slovakia. At the end of the tournament, the Spitfires acquired defencemanMarc Cantin,forwardStephen Johnstonand German goaltenderPhilipp Grubauerfrom the Belleville Bulls in exchange for forwards Panik andAusten Brassard,defencemanPaul Bezzo,goaltender Steve Gleeson and a seventh-round pick in the 2012 OHL Priority Selection.

In the first round of the OHL playoffs, the Spitfires swept theErie Ottersin four games. They then swept thePlymouth Whalersin four games to win their Conference Semi-Final. In the other semi-final, theKitchener Rangersupset the favouredLondon Knightsin seven games. In the Conference Finals against Kitchener, Windsor initially struggled, losing the first three games of the series. However, the Spitfires went on to become the third team inOntario Hockey Leaguehistory to come back from a three-game deficit to win a playoff series, beating Rangers in each of the next four games to win the conference championship and theWayne Gretzky Trophy.Notably, the Spitfires had recovered from a 3–0 deficit to win a playoff series once before, in a 2004–05 Conference Quarterfinal series against theSault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.In the league final, the Spitfires made quick work of a highly toutedBarrie Coltssquad, sweeping them in four games to win their second straightJ. Ross Robertson Cup.Adam Henriquewon theWayne Gretzky 99 Awardas the playoffs' most valuable player.

In May, the Spitfires traveled toBrandon, Manitoba,for the2010 Memorial Cup.The Spitfires trampled the hostBrandon Wheat Kings9–3 in their first game of the tournament and, in their second game, scored a convincing 6–2 win over theWestern Hockey LeaguechampionCalgary Hitmen.With their victory over the Hitmen, the Spitfires clinched a berth in the Memorial Cup final. They did not need to defeat theQuebec Major Junior Hockey League'sMoncton Wildcatsin their third and final round-robin game, but did so anyway, winning 4–3 in overtime. The tournament final saw the Spitfires play the host Wheat Kings for a second time. The Spitfires posted a convincing win once again, defeating the Wheat Kings 9–1 to clinch their second straight Memorial Cup. Their victory marked their twelfth straight win since going down 0–3 to Kitchener in the OHL's Western Conference Final, and they finished the playoffs with 20 wins against just 3 losses. Taylor Hall won his second straightStafford Smythe Memorial Trophyas Memorial Cup most valuable player, making him the first repeat winner in the trophy's history.

2010–11 season

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After two straightMemorial Cups,the Summer of 2010 saw leading scorerTaylor Hallgo first overall in the2010 NHL Entry Draftto theEdmonton Oilersand CoachBob Boughneraccepted an assistant coaching job with theNational Hockey League'sColumbus Blue Jackets.The Spitfires have engaged in a massive overhaul involving many trades.

During the exhibition season, the Spitfires hosted theCzech Under-20 National Team.The Spitfires came back to win the game 5–4. Spitfires finished the exhibition schedule with 4 wins 1 loss and 1 tie.

After another successful season the Spits finished 4th in the Western Conference to advance to the playoffs. The Spitfires reached the Conference Final for the third consecutive year. Following two hard fought battles the Spits were eliminated from the playoffs for the first time in three years by the Owen Sound Attack. The Attack went on to win the OHL Championship.

2011–12 season

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After one season with the Columbus Blue Jackets as assistant coach,Bob Boughnerreturned to the Spitfires as head coach, with Bob Jones remaining on the staff as his assistant.

On August 10, 2012, the Spitfires were fined an unprecedented $400,000 CAD by theOntario Hockey Leagueand forfeited five first round OHL Priority Draft picks in 2013, 2014, and 2016 and second round picks in 2015 and 2017 for unspecified recruitment violations.[52]The Spitfires claimed innocence to the recruitment violations and plan to appeal the decision.[53]

2013–14 season

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On December 29, 2013, the Spitfires and theSaginaw Spiritplayed the first ever outdoor game in Ontario Hockey League history. The game was played atComerica ParkinDetroit,Michigan.The Spitfires won the game 6–5 in front of a short-livedCanadian Hockey Leaguerecord of 25,749 spectators, surpassed later that night by theLondon KnightsandPlymouth Whalersat the same venue.[54]

2014–15 season

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On June 28, 2015, Spitfires owner and head coachBob Boughneraccepted another assistant coaching job with the NHL'sSan Jose Sharks.A couple of days later, former Oilers assistant coachRocky Thompsonwas hired as the Spitfires new head coach, withTrevor Letowskiaccepting the assistant coaching job after former assistant coach Bob Jones was hired by theOshawa Generalsas head coach. Boughner's new job seemed to be very successful, as he and former SpitfirePeter DeBoerlead the team to the 2016 Stanley Cup Finals, losing to thePittsburgh Penguins.

2016–17 season

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The Spitfires hosting theSarnia Stingin 2023

Windsor was selected as the host city for the 99thMemorial Cupchampionship, who won the right to host the tournament over undisclosed competition.[55]In defeating the Seattle Thunderbirds by 7–1 in a round-robin game on May 21, 2017, the Windsor Spitfires tied a Memorial Cup record for the fastest 3 goals scored by a team in a single period (38 game seconds), matching the record set by the WHL'sNew Westminster Bruinsin the1978tournament.[56]The tournament ended with the Windsor Spitfires winning theirthird Memorial Cup,defeating the Erie Otters 4–3 in the championship final.

On December 4, 2016, the Saginaw Spirit hosted the Spitfires in front of a crowd of over 3,100 people in the closing ofJoe Louis Arenain Detroit, Michigan. The Spitfires got the best of the Spirit in a 3–2 overtime win, with a hat trick performance by defencemanSean Day.[57]

Championships

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Spitfires salute fans inWindsor ArenaasOshawa Generalslook on (November 2008)

The Windsor Compuware Spitfires won the Hamilton Spectator Trophy, the J. Ross Robertson Cup, and were the top-ranked junior team in Canada during the 1987–88 season.

Coaches

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  • 1971–72– Jerry Serviss and George Aitken
  • 1972–73– Jerry Serviss
  • 1973–74–Wayne Maxner
  • 1974–75–Dick Duffand Jim Butcher
  • 1975–76– Doug Johnston andWayne Maxner
  • 1976–1980– Wayne Maxner
  • 1980–81– Ron Harris and Ron Carroll
  • 1981–82–Marcel Pronovost
  • 1982–83– Marcel Pronovost, Doug Imrie, John Becanic
  • 1983–84– Bob Boucher, Terry McConnell, Wayne Maxner
  • 1984–85– Mark Craig
  • 1985–86–Tom Webster
  • 1986–87– Tom Webster,Jim Rutherford,Tony McDonald
  • 1987–1989– Tom Webster
  • 1989–91– Brad Smith
  • 1991–92– Brad Smith, Wayne Maxner, Dave Prpich
  • 1992–93–Wayne Maxner,Kevin McIntosh
  • 1993–94– Shane Parker
  • 1994–95– Mike Kelly
  • 1995–96– Mike Kelly and Paul Gillis
  • 1996–97– Paul Gillis
  • 1997–98–Vern Stenlund,Dave Prpich, Tony Curtale
  • 1998–99– Tony Curtale and Dave Prpich
  • 1999–2002– Tom Webster
  • 2002–03– Tom Webster and Mike Kelly
  • 2003–04–Steve Smithand Mike Kelly
  • 2004–05– Mike Kelly
  • 2005–06–Moe Mantha Jr.,Bill Bowler, and D.J. Smith (interim co-coaches)
  • 2006–2010–Bob Boughner
  • 2010–11– Bob Jones
  • 2011–2015– Bob Boughner
  • 2015–2017–Rocky Thompson
  • 2017–2021–Trevor Letowski[58]
  • 2021–2023–Marc Savard[59]
  • July 24, 2023 – November 20, 2023– Jerrod Smith
  • November 20, 2023–present– Casey Torres (interim)[60]

Players

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Over 100 alumni of the OHA and OHL Junior A Spitfires have graduated to play in theNational Hockey League.Four of those alumni have been inducted into theHockey Hall of Fame:Glenn Hall,Marcel Pronovost,Terry Sawchuk,andAl Arbouras coach.

Source:[61]

Award winners

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Season Player(s) Award Recognition
1973–74 Scott Miller SOJHL Leading Scorer Award Top points scorer
1974–75 John Tavella SOJHL Leading Scorer Award Top points scorer
Floyd St. Cyr SOJHL Top Goaltender Award Most outstanding goaltender
1980–81 Ernie Godden Red Tilson Trophy Most outstanding player (MVP)
1987–88 Darrin Shannon Max Kaminsky Trophy Most outstanding defenceman
Bobby Smith Trophy Scholastic Player of the Year
CHL Scholastic Player of the Year Player who best combines success on ice and in school
1990–91 Cory Stillman Emms Family Award Top first-year player (Rookie of the Year)
1991–92 Todd Warriner CHL Top Draft Prospect Award Top eligible prospect for the NHL Entry Draft
1994–95 Bill Bowler Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy Best overage player
1996–97 Peter Sarno Emms Family Award Top first-year player (Rookie of the Year)
1997–98 Peter Sarno Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy Top point scorer
2000–01 Jason Spezza CHL Top Draft Prospect Award Top eligible prospect for the NHL Entry Draft
2002–03 Kyle Wellwood William Hanley Trophy Most sportsmanlike player
CHL Sportsman of the Year Most sportsmanlike player
2007–08 Taylor Hall Emms Family Award Top first-year player (Rookie of the Year)
CHL Rookie of the Year CHL Rookie of the Year
Ryan Ellis Bobby Smith Trophy Scholastic Player of the Year
Bob Boughner Matt Leyden Trophy Coach of the Year
Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award CHL Coach of the Year
2008–09 Ryan Ellis Max Kaminsky Trophy Most outstanding defenceman
Taylor Hall Wayne Gretzky 99 Award MVP of OHL playoffs
Bob Boughner Matt Leyden Trophy Coach of the Year
Brian Kilrea Coach of the Year Award CHL Coach of the Year
Warren Rychel OHL Executive of the Year Top executive in OHL
2009
Memorial
Cup		 Taylor Hall Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy Most Valuable player at the Memorial Cup
Ryan Ellis,
Taylor Hall		 Memorial Cup All-Star Team Best players by position at the Memorial Cup tournament
2009–10 Taylor Hall Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy Top point scorer (tie)
Derek Lanoue Roger Neilson Memorial Award Top academic post-secondary school player
Adam Henrique Wayne Gretzky 99 Award MVP of OHL playoffs
2010
Memorial
Cup		 Taylor Hall Stafford Smythe Memorial Trophy Most Valuable player at the Memorial Cup
Ed Chynoweth Trophy Top scorer in the Memorial Cup
Cam Fowler,
Taylor Hall		 Memorial Cup All-Star Team Best players by position at the Memorial Cup tournament
2010–11 Derek Lanoue Roger Neilson Memorial Award Top academic post-secondary school player
Ryan Ellis Max Kaminsky Trophy Most outstanding defenceman
Red Tilson Trophy Most outstanding player (MVP)
Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy Most valuable team captain
2015–16 Michael DiPietro F. W. "Dinty" Moore Trophy First-year goaltender with best GAA
Mikhail Sergachev Max Kaminsky Trophy Most outstanding defenceman
2017
Memorial
Cup		 Michael DiPietro Hap Emms Memorial Trophy Most outstanding goaltender at the Memorial Cup
Michael DiPietro,
Mikhail Sergachev,
Gabriel Vilardi		 Memorial Cup All-Star Team Best players by position at the Memorial Cup tournament
2017-18 Michael DiPietro OHL Goaltender of the Year Best goaltender in the league
2021–22 Wyatt Johnston Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy Top point scorer
William Hanley Trophy Most sportsmanlike player
Red Tilson Trophy Most outstanding player (MVP)
2022–23 Matthew Maggio Eddie Powers Memorial Trophy Top point scorer
Jim Mahon Memorial Trophy Top scoring right winger
Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy Best overage player
Red Tilson Trophy Most outstanding player (MVP)

NHL alumni

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SOJHL Spitfires (1971–1975)
Modern Spitfires (1975–present)

Season-by-season results

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Regular season

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  • (1975–84, 1989–present) Windsor Spitfires
  • (1984–89) Windsor Compuware Spitfires

Legend: OTL = Overtime loss, SL = Shootout loss

Season Games Won Lost Tied OTL SL Points Pct % Goals
for		 Goals
against		 Standing
1971–72 56 21 32 3 - - 45 0.402 220 266 6th SOJAHL
1972–73 60 30 21 9 - - 69 0.575 286 273 3rd SOJAHL
1973–74 62 39 15 8 - - 86 0.694 379 242 1st SOJAHL
1974–75 60 40 15 5 - - 85 0.708 320 207 1st SOJAHL
1975–76 66 12 50 4 - - 28 0.212 251 470 6th Emms
1976–77 66 21 37 8 - - 50 0.379 294 386 5th Emms
1977–78 68 36 24 8 - - 80 0.588 338 289 2nd Emms
1978–79 68 32 35 1 - - 65 0.478 323 322 3rd Emms
1979–80 68 36 31 1 - - 73 0.537 323 344 1st Emms
1980–81 68 33 33 2 - - 68 0.500 322 337 2nd Emms
1981–82 68 22 42 4 - - 48 0.353 269 343 6th Emms
1982–83 70 19 50 1 - - 39 0.279 289 394 6th Emms
1983–84 70 22 46 2 - - 46 0.329 280 379 6th Emms
1984–85 66 28 35 3 - - 59 0.447 267 301 5th Emms
1985–86 66 34 26 6 - - 74 0.561 280 259 3rd Emms
1986–87 66 36 25 5 - - 77 0.583 287 249 3rd Emms
1987–88 66 50 14 2 - - 102 0.773 396 215 1st Emms
1988–89 66 25 37 4 - - 54 0.409 272 321 5th Emms
1989–90 66 17 41 8 - - 42 0.318 233 341 8th Emms
1990–91 66 33 29 4 - - 70 0.530 307 279 4th Emms
1991–92 66 25 33 8 - - 58 0.439 272 316 5th Emms
1992–93 66 19 42 5 - - 43 0.326 240 343 8th Emms
1993–94 66 25 36 5 - - 55 0.417 253 298 7th Emms
1994–95 66 41 22 3 - - 85 0.644 303 232 2nd Western
1995–96 66 21 41 4 - - 46 0.348 256 312 4th Western
1996–97 66 29 29 8 - - 66 0.500 303 285 3rd Western
1997–98 66 19 42 5 - - 43 0.326 261 340 6th Western
1998–99 68 23 39 6 - - 52 0.382 203 294 5th West
1999–2000 68 35 30 2 1 - 73 0.529 213 231 4th West
2000–01 68 34 22 8 4 - 80 0.559 257 221 2nd West
2001–02 68 33 24 6 5 - 77 0.529 253 229 3rd West
2002–03 68 37 25 5 1 - 80 0.581 259 221 3rd West
2003–04 68 27 30 3 8 - 65 0.419 201 219 3rd West
2004–05 68 26 29 6 7 - 65 0.478 223 253 3rd West
2005–06 68 32 29 - 3 4 71 0.522 247 253 3rd West
2006–07 68 18 43 - 2 5 43 0.316 209 311 5th West
2007–08 68 41 15 - 7 5 94 0.691 279 205 2nd West
2008–09 68 57 10 - 0 1 115 0.846 311 171 1st West
2009–10 68 50 12 - 1 5 106 0.779 331 203 1st West
2010–11 68 39 23 - 3 3 84 0.618 280 247 2nd West
2011–12 68 29 32 - 5 2 65 0.478 213 258 4th West
2012–13 68 26 33 - 3 6 61 0.449 212 278 5th West
2013–14 68 37 28 - 3 0 77 0.566 249 235 2nd West
2014–15 68 24 40 - 2 2 52 0.382 223 305 5th West
2015–16 68 40 21 - 6 1 87 0.640 253 200 2nd West
2016–17 68 41 19 - 5 3 90 0.662 232 185 2nd West
2017–18 68 32 30 - 4 2 70 0.515 214 224 3rd West
2018–19 68 25 33 - 5 5 60 0.441 216 257 4th West
2019–20 62 34 20 - 8 0 76 0.613 256 233 3rd West
2020–21 0 0 0 - 0 0 0 0.000 0 0 Season cancelled
2021–22 68 44 17 - 4 3 95 0.699 305 248 1st West
2022–23 68 44 18 - 4 2 94 0.691 320 265 1st West
2023–24 68 18 42 - 5 3 44 0.324 247 360 5th West

Playoffs

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  • 1971–72Lost toChatham Maroons4 games to 1 in quarter-final.
  • 1972–73DefeatedNiagara Falls Flyers4 games to 3 in quarter-final.
    Lost toGuelph CMC's4 games to 0 in semi-final.
  • 1973–74DefeatedDetroit Jr. Red Wings4 games to 0 in semi-final.
    DefeatedChatham Maroons4 games to 1 in final.SOJHL CHAMPIONS
    Lost toWexford Raiders4 games to 3 in Eastern Centennial Cup quarter-final.
  • 1974–75DefeatedDetroit Jr. Red Wings4 games to 1 in semi-final.
    Lost toGuelph CMC's4 games to 3 with 1 tie in final.
  • 1975–76Out of playoffs.
  • 1976–77Defeated Kitchener Rangers 3 games to 0 in first round.
    Lost to St. Catharines Fincups 4 games to 2 in quarter-finals.
  • 1977–78Lost to Hamilton Fincups 9 points to 3 in quarter-finals.
  • 1978–79Lost to London Knights in a 9 games series in quarter-finals. Series protested and both teams moved on.
    Eliminated in semi-final round-robin vs. Niagara Falls Flyers and London Knights.
  • 1979–80Defeated Niagara Falls Flyers 4 games to 1 in quarter-finals.
    Defeated Brantford Alexanders 4 games to 3 in semi-finals.
    Lost to Peterborough Petes 4 games to 0 in finals.
  • 1980–81Defeated Brantford Alexanders 8 points to 4 in division semi-finals.
    Lost to Kitchener Rangers 9 points to 1 in division finals.
  • 1981–82Defeated Niagara Falls Flyers 6 points to 4 in first round.
    Lost to Kitchener Rangers 8 points to 0 in quarter-finals.
  • 1982–83Lost to North Bay Centennials 6 points to 0 in first round.
  • 1983–84Lost to S.S. Marie Greyhounds 6 points to 0 in first round.
  • 1984–85Lost to London Knights 8 points to 0 in first round.
  • 1985–86Defeated Kitchener Rangers 8 points to 2 in first round.
    Finished quarter-final round robin vs Guelph Platers and North Bay Centennials in second place (4 points).
    Lost to Guelph Platers 8 points to 4 in semi-finals.
  • 1986–87Defeated S.S. Marie Greyhounds 4 games to 0 in first round.
    Defeated Hamilton Steelhawks 4 games to 0 in quarter-finals.
    Lost to North Bay Centennials 4 games to 2 in semi-finals.
  • 1987–88Defeated Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 0 in first round.
    Earned bye through quarter-finals. 1st place in Emms division.
    Defeated Hamilton Steelhawks 4 games to 0 in semi-finals.
    Defeated Peterborough Petes 4 games to 0 in finals.OHL CHAMPIONS
    FinishedMemorial Cupround-robin in first place, earned berth in finals.
    Lost to Medicine Hat Tigers 7–6 in championship game.
  • 1988–89Lost to Niagara Falls Thunder 4 games to 0 in first round.
  • 1989–90Out of playoffs.
  • 1990–91Defeated London Knights 4 games to 3 in first round.
    Lost to Niagara Falls Thunder 4 games to 0 in quarter-finals.
  • 1991–92Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 3 in first round.
  • 1992–93Out of playoffs.
  • 1993–94Lost to S.S. Marie Greyhounds 4 games to 0 in division quarter-finals.
  • 1994–95Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 0 in division quarter-finals.
    Lost to Sudbury Wolves 4 games to 2 in quarter-finals.
  • 1995–96Lost to Detroit Whalers 4 games to 3 in division quarter-finals.
  • 1996–97Lost to Sarnia Sting 4 games to 1 in division quarter-finals.
  • 1997–98Out of playoffs.
  • 1998–99Defeated Kitchener Rangers 2–1 in 8th place tiebreaker.
    Lost to Plymouth Whalers 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 1999–2000Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Plymouth Whalers 4 games to 1 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2000–01Defeated Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to Plymouth Whalers 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2001–02Defeated S.S. Marie Greyhounds 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Guelph Storm 4 games to 1 in conference semi-finals.
    Lost to Erie Otters 4 games to 1 in conference finals.
  • 2002–03Lost to London Knights 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2003–04Lost to London Knights 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2004–05Defeated S.S. Marie Greyhounds 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
    Lost to London Knights 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
  • 2005–06Lost to Plymouth Whalers 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2006–07Out of playoffs.
  • 2007–08Lost to Sarnia Sting 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2008–09Defeated Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Plymouth Whalers 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals.
    Defeated London Knights 4 games to 1 in conference finals.
    Defeated Brampton Battalion 4 games to 1 in finals.OHL CHAMPIONS
    FinishedMemorial Cupround-robin in fourth place
    DefeatedRimouski Océanic6–4 in tiebreaker.
    DefeatedDrummondville Voltigeurs3–2 (OT) in semifinal.
    Defeated theKelowna Rockets4–1 in theMemorial Cupfinal.MEMORIAL CUP CHAMPIONS
  • 2009–10Defeated Erie Otters 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Plymouth Whalers 4 games to 0 in conference semi-finals.
    Defeated Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 3 in conference finals.
    Defeated Barrie Colts 4 games to 0 in finals.OHL CHAMPIONS
    FinishedMemorial Cupround-robin in first place.
    DefeatedBrandon Wheat Kings9–1 in theMemorial Cupfinal.MEMORIAL CUP CHAMPIONS
  • 2010–11Defeated Erie Otters 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Saginaw Spirit 4 games to 2 in conference semi-finals.
    Lost to Owen Sound Attack 4 games to 1 in conference finals.
  • 2011–12Lost to London Knights 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2012–13Out of playoffs.
  • 2013–14Lost to London Knights 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2014–15Out of playoffs.
  • 2015–16Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 1 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2016–17Lost to London Knights 4 games to 3 in conference quarter-finals.
    Gain entrance to2017 Memorial Cupas host team.
    FinishedMemorial Cupround-robin in first place.
    DefeatedErie Otters4–3 inMemorial Cupfinal.MEMORIAL CUP CHAMPIONS
  • 2017–18Lost to Sarnia Sting 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2018–19Lost to London Knights 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2019–20Cancelled.
  • 2020–21Cancelled.
  • 2021–22Defeated Sarnia Sting 4 games to 2 in conference quarter-finals.
    Defeated Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 1 in conference semi-finals.
    DefeatedFlint Firebirds4 games to 3 in conference finals.
    Lost toHamilton Bulldogs4 games to 3 in finals.
  • 2022–23Lost to Kitchener Rangers 4 games to 0 in conference quarter-finals.
  • 2023–24Out of playoffs.

Uniforms and logos

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The new logo features an aggressive, stylized World War IISpitfirefighter plane set against clouds on a red, white and blue shield with the word "Spitfires" emblazoned prominently in the forefront. The logo preserves the team's primary colours of red and blue, but uses richer, more vibrant hues and adds silver and yellow as secondary colours.

The Spitfires worked with the Ontario Hockey League and Reebok - official supplier of uniforms to the OHL - in finalizing the new uniform. The new jerseys sport shoulder patches featuring the vintage Spitfire plane encircled by a gold laurel wreath and containing the number 18 to commemorate former Spitfires captain Mickey Renaud. Both the primary logo and shoulder patch designs were collaborations by Marcello Fontana and Shane Potvin, both senior art directors at Hargreaves Stewart.

The Windsor Spitfires use white jerseys on the road until Christmas and at home in the new year and the red jerseys at home until Christmas and on the road in the new year. The Spitfires briefly used a third jersey featuring a white, red and green colour scheme and an alternate logo featuring an airplane flying in front of theAmbassador Bridge.When the team was also known as the Compuware Spitfires the team's colours were brown and orange, with a logo featuring a Spitfire airplane. The original Spitfires logo featured a maple leaf.

Arena

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The Spitfires play their home games at theWFCU Centre,an arena located on the east end of Windsor. The WFCU Centre played host to its first Spitfires game on December 11, 2008, against theBelleville Bulls.[62]The Spitfires lost the game 4–0, which also broke a string of 12 home wins the Spitfires had amassed so far that season.

The Spitfires previously played atWindsor Arena,built in 1924 in downtownWindsor, Ontario.The arena was originally known as the "Border Cities Arena" and was once home to theDetroit Red Wingsof theNHLprior to 1927. The Windsor Arena, nicknamed "The Barn," was the oldest operating facility in the Canadian Hockey League. It hosted theOHL All-Star gamein 1978, and theMemorial Cupin 1981. On December 4, 2008, the Windsor Spitfires played their last game at "The Barn" against theGuelph Storm,winning 2–1.[63][64]

Broadcasters

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CKLWis the current flagship radio station of the Spitfires. It had been a longtime broadcaster of the Spitfires, but dropped the team in the 2002–03 season. After two seasons without a radio broadcaster at all,CKUE-FMpicked up the Spitfires for the 2004-2005 and 2005–2006 seasons, before the team returned to CKLW beginning in the 2006–07 season. Games on CKLW are commentated by Mike Miller and Frank Dayus IV.[65]

On television, Spitfires games are broadcast byYourTV Windsor,acommunity channelcarried onCogeco's cable system in Windsor. Domenic Papa previously hosted and providedcolour commentaryfor Spitfires games, alongside Bill Kelso on play-by-play and Brian Trenholm with analysis. However, in August 2012, TVCogeco announced that the long-time crew would be replaced for the 2012–13 season.[66]The move to fire the Spitfires' long-time broadcast team was met with backlash and protests from Spitfires fans and other members of Windsor's sports community.[67]The current team consists of host Angelo Aversa,CKSY-FMmorning show and formerLondon Knightsstudio host Chris McLeod on play-by-play, and former Spitfires playerTodd Warrineron colour.[68]

See also

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References

edit
  1. ^"Staff Directory".WindsorSpitfires.Ontario Hockey League.RetrievedFebruary 21,2024.
  2. ^Parker, Jim (July 2, 2024)."Spitfires hire Walters as head coach a day after his OHL suspension is lifted".Windsor Star.RetrievedDecember 31,2024.
  3. ^abcSimcoe Reformer. February 11, 1975, Page 4.
  4. ^Battagello, Dave (November 20, 2016)."Historic military aircraft recognized with tribute at Jackson Park".Windsor Star.RetrievedMarch 22,2019.
  5. ^Alan Halberstadt (October 2, 1971), "CMCs shoot down Spitfires in SOHA junior bow, 11-3",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, pp.23–24
  6. ^Alan Halberstadt (October 8, 1971), "Thanks to Mio, It's a happy Spit return",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, pp.31–32
  7. ^"It's Spitfires vs. Maroons",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 20, February 21, 1972
  8. ^Alan Halberstadt (February 24, 1972), "Spits steal opener, 3-2",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 33
  9. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 1, 1972), "Maroons finish battling Spits",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 30
  10. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 6, 1973), "Spits explode, remain in hunt",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 22
  11. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 7, 1973), "Spits grow up as a team",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 53
  12. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 9, 1973), "Spitfires make it all the way back, 6-3",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 24
  13. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 14, 1973), "Frantic Spits go down fighting",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 65
  14. ^abAlan Halberstadt (April 13, 1974), "Mitchell, Miller big winners",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 22
  15. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 7, 1974), "Spits reach final for first time, 7-5",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 35
  16. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 19, 1974), "Maxner: Armstrong gave us a break",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 22
  17. ^Alan Halberstadt (March 22, 1974), "Armstrong stirs Spits to first title, 4-3",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 23
  18. ^Alan Halberstadt (April 6, 1974), "All over for Spitfires, 6-3",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 37
  19. ^"Windsor major A bid rejected",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 22, March 19, 1974
  20. ^Dave Hall (February 17, 1975), "Tavella, St. Cyr winners, anyway",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 22
  21. ^Dave Hall (March 24, 1975), "Spits face sudden-death tonight",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 22
  22. ^Dave Hall (March 25, 1975), "Bilts spoil Spitfires' dream, 6-5",Windsor Star,Windsor, Ontario, p. 30
  23. ^"Windsor given berth in OHA",Ottawa Citizen,Ottawa, Ontario, p. 17, February 10, 1975
  24. ^Marty Knack (September 26, 1975), "Spits get early initiation, 10-1.",Windsor Star,p. 26
  25. ^Marty Knack (October 3, 1975), "Perras caps remarkable ending to give Spitfires 11-10 triumph",Windsor Star,p. 24
  26. ^Board, Mike."Renaud will be missed, never forgotten".Calgary Flames. Archived fromthe originalon February 20, 2008.RetrievedNovember 18,2018.
  27. ^Jim Parker (May 15, 2009)."Spitfires remember Renaud".windsorstar.Archived fromthe originalon May 17, 2009.
  28. ^"Windsor Spitfires captain Mickey Renaud dead at 19 - CBC Sports".cbc.ca.
  29. ^abJim Parker (September 26, 2008)."Mickey Renaud Way named".The Windsor Star. Archived fromthe originalon March 29, 2012.RetrievedNovember 18,2018.
  30. ^"Mickey Renaud Tribute - Tecumseh Chiefs".ohahockey.org.February 21, 2008. Archived fromthe originalon May 9, 2008.
  31. ^"Ontario Hockey League to present annual award in honour of Mickey Renaud".Ontario Hockey League. February 4, 2009. Archived fromthe originalon February 8, 2009.RetrievedNovember 18,2018.
  32. ^ab"Ontario Hockey League ◊ Official Website Bob Boughner named OHL Coach of the Year".Archived fromthe originalon January 1, 2010.RetrievedMay 26,2009.
  33. ^ab"King: CHL news and notes".sportsnet.ca.Archived fromthe originalon December 25, 2008.RetrievedMay 26,2009.
  34. ^Jim Parker (February 4, 2009)."OHL Notes".windsorstar.Archived fromthe originalon April 30, 2009.
  35. ^"Engelage Sets Record for Most Wins in a Single Season".Ontario Hockey League. March 13, 2009. Archived fromthe originalon March 19, 2009.RetrievedNovember 18,2018.
  36. ^"Spitfires Sweep Attack".windsorstar.April 14, 2012.[dead link‍]
  37. ^"Series breaks Plymouth jinx".windsorstar.April 14, 2012.[dead link‍]
  38. ^Ryan Pyette (April 23, 2009)."Spitfires win series with OT heroics".Simcoe.Archived fromthe originalon August 19, 2017.
  39. ^"Taylor Hall scores in overtime as Windsor beats Brampton to claim OHL crown".NHL.May 8, 2009.RetrievedJanuary 22,2024.
  40. ^Bob Duff (February 3, 2009)."Spitfires recall their 1987-88 title".canada.Archived fromthe originalon May 30, 2011.RetrievedMay 26,2009.
  41. ^"Windsor Mayor Francis Gives Spitfires Key to the City of Windsor".oursportscentral.May 10, 2009.
  42. ^Jim Parker (May 17, 2009)."Do or die for Spitfires after 5-4 loss to Rimouski".windsorstar.Archived fromthe originalon January 15, 2010.
  43. ^"Spitfires stay alive at Memorial Cup with 2-1 win over Rockets".NHL.May 19, 2009.
  44. ^"Mitchell's natural hat trick sinks Oceanic - CBC Sports".cbc.ca.May 22, 2009.
  45. ^"2009 – Windsor Spitfires".Canadian Hockey League.RetrievedNovember 18,2018.One day later, the Spitfires, still skating on a tightrope, beat the Voltigeurs, 3-2, on an Adam Henrique goal at 4:31 of OT.
  46. ^https://calgaryherald /Spitfires+flying+course+toward+history/1625616/story.html[permanent dead link‍]
  47. ^https://ottawacitizen /Historic+Memorial+Spitfires/1627908/story.html[permanent dead link‍]
  48. ^"Rockets and Spitfires Play for MasterCard Memorial Cup".mastercardmemorialcup.Canadian Hockey League. May 24, 2009. Archived fromthe originalon November 26, 2010.RetrievedNovember 21,2018.
  49. ^ab"Spitfires win in memory of Renaud".faceoff.Archived fromthe originalon July 24, 2011.RetrievedMay 26,2009.
  50. ^Donald McArthur (26 May 2009)."Spitfires get red-carpet homecoming from frenzied fans".windsorstar.Archivedfrom the original on 29 June 2009.Retrieved4 October2018.
  51. ^"City names WFCU Centre thoroughfare Memorial Cup Way".windsorstar.[dead link‍]
  52. ^"OHL penalizes Spitfires for violating recruitment rules".tsn.ca.
  53. ^"OHL fines Spitfires $400,000 and strips club of five draft picks".windsorstar.August 10, 2012.
  54. ^"Spits top Spirit 6-5 at Comerica Park".windsorstar.December 30, 2013.
  55. ^"OHL Notebook: Windsor gets Memorial Cup".sportsnet.ca.RetrievedMay 29,2016.
  56. ^Coccimiglio, Brad (May 21, 2017)."Memorial Cup Notebook: Spitfires tie record in win".Windsor, Ontario:SooToday.RetrievedMay 24,2017.
  57. ^"Farewell to the Joe: Day's hat-trick one for the memories".Ontario Hockey League.December 4, 2016.RetrievedNovember 21,2018.
  58. ^"Thank you, Trevor Letowski".Windsor Spitfires.July 21, 2021.
  59. ^"Windsor Spitfires Announce New Head Coach and Hockey Staff".OurSports Central.August 24, 2021.
  60. ^Murphy, Jan (November 23, 2023)."Kingston native Torres excited for what's next after assuming coaching job in Windsor".Kingston Whig-Standard.RetrievedDecember 3,2023.
  61. ^"Windsor Spitfires: Legends Jerseys".Canadian Hockey League.RetrievedNovember 21,2018.
  62. ^"Spitfires to get New Arena".Ontario Hockey League.October 7, 2006. Archived fromthe originalon March 11, 2007.RetrievedNovember 20,2018.
  63. ^Craig Pearson (December 5, 2008)."Spits close Barn door".canada.Archived fromthe originalon December 6, 2008.RetrievedNovember 20,2018.
  64. ^"Last Game at Windsor Arena - Dec 4, 2008".inplaymagazine.Archivedfrom the original on July 13, 2011.RetrievedNovember 20,2018.
  65. ^"CKLW to air Spitfires games".Windsor Spitfires.RetrievedNovember 19,2018.
  66. ^"Cogeco drops Spitfires TV crew".The Windsor Star. Archived fromthe originalon August 5, 2012.RetrievedAugust 9,2012.
  67. ^"Protest greets Cogeco firings".The Windsor Star.RetrievedAugust 9,2012.[dead link‍]
  68. ^Jim Parker."Cogeco unveils TV crew for Spits".The Windsor Star.RetrievedNovember 18,2018.
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