The Ripley Wolves are advancing to the next round of the Ontario Elite Hockey League playoffs following a league decision regarding player eligibility.
In a statement released Sunday, the team confirmed that league officials ruled Game 6 of their series against Minto a forfeit after determining that an ineligible goaltender had participated in the game.
The Wolves had submitted an appeal following Saturday’s matchup. On Monday, the league’s general managers reviewed the case and voted 14–2 in favour of Ripley. According to league records, the goaltender in question was not listed on Minto’s roster and had not been registered as an approved affiliate player prior to the January 15 deadline. Minto was also noted to already have five goaltenders on its roster.
Under league rules, the use of an ineligible player resulted in the game being forfeited.
As a result, the Wolves will advance to the OEHL Paxton Trophy Finals, and the previously scheduled Game 7 will not be played.
In their statement, the organization acknowledged the unusual outcome, saying they would have preferred for the series to be decided on the ice, but emphasized the importance of fairness and adherence to league rules.
Ripley now shifts its focus to the finals, set to begin this weekend.