Young hockey players from Barrie and the surrounding area will get a rare chance to train like Barrie Colts next month, when the annual Colt for a Day event returns to Sadlon Arena for its 21st year.
The event, hosted by the Kempenfelt Rotary Club of Barrie, is scheduled for Feb. 15, 2026. Participants get to step onto the same OHL ice used by the Barrie Colts, taking part in on-ice sessions, skill development drills and behind-the-scenes experiences usually reserved for players at the junior hockey level.
A community tradition turns 21
Organizers say the event has become one of the city's most popular youth hockey traditions, drawing families, fans and volunteers together while raising funds for community and youth-focused charitable programs in Barrie.
"Twenty-one years is an incredible milestone and it speaks to how strongly this event resonates in our community," said Rob Wilcox of the Kempenfelt Rotary Club of Barrie, organizers of the event. "Every participant walks away with memories they'll never forget, and every dollar raised helps us support important charitable work right here in Barrie."
The money raised through Colt for a Day goes directly toward supporting charitable initiatives in the community, according to the organizers.
Colts organization on board
The Barrie Colts organization is a supporter of the event. Jim Payetta, the club's vice-president of business development and marketing, said the excitement participants show when they hit the OHL ice is a big part of what keeps the tradition going.
"Watching young athletes step onto OHL ice with that mix of excitement and awe never gets old," Payetta said. "Colt for a Day gives kids a true taste of playing at this level while contributing to meaningful causes in our community."
How to take part
Families, hockey fans and other supporters are invited to participate, donate or take in the atmosphere at the arena. Full event details and registration information are available at coltfortheday.com.
For Simcoe County families with young hockey players, the event offers an up-close look at what life is like for players in the Ontario Hockey League — all while backing charitable programs that organizers say benefit young people in the Barrie area.
Colt for a Day runs Sunday, Feb. 15 at Sadlon Arena, home of the Barrie Colts.
