Kitchener Dutchmen moving to Ayr

Ayr will soon be home to a Junior B hockey team.

The board of directors of the Ontario Hockey Association has given final approval to the Ayr Centennials to purchase and move the Kitchener Dutchmen to the village.

“Bringing one of the most storied franchises in the prestigious GOJHL to our little town is very exciting and we will continue to operate as a community owned team.” Jack McEachern, President of the Ayr Centennials Hockey Association said in a release.

The Dutchmen, formerly known as the Kitchener Greenshirts, have been around since 1956.

They're also the affiliate club of the Kitchener Rangers.

McEachern is thanking the PJHL executive for dedicating so many hours in helping them find the best solution for their current players.

The Centennials won back-to-back Schmalz Cup titles in 2016 and 2017.

“From Jr. D, to Jr. C, to Jr. B – none of this would be possible without the unbelievable support we receive in our hometown of Ayr. We are so proud of you, Cens fans! You are why we are doing this. This one's for you!” added McEachern.

The new team will be called the Ayr Centennials (Junior B), but there will be a commemorative patch on their jerseys, honouring the rich history of the Dutchmen.

Their season opener is tentatively scheduled for September 17.