Guelph Platers

The Guelph Platers began their major junior hockey journey in 1982 when they were rebranded from the Guelph Mad Hatters. The team's new name, the Platers, was inspired by electroplating, reflecting the industrial roots of the Guelph area. Initially, success was hard to come by for the Platers, as the team struggled through its early years, managing only 49 wins in their first three seasons.

However, in 1985-86, the team came out of nowhere with a surprisingly good season. Under the guidance of legendary coach Jacques Martin, the Platers made a remarkable turnaround. That season they won 41 games the league title. They furthered that accomplishment by going on to win the Memorial Cup. 

Unfortunately, the Platers' success was fleeting. After their Memorial Cup triumph, Jacques Martin moved on to the NHL in the summer of 1986. In the years following Martin's departure, the Platers never regained their championship form, failing to win more than 30 games in a season. By 1989, the franchise relocated to Owen Sound, ending the Guelph chapter of the team's history.

Two of the most famous alumni from the Platers' Guelph days are Kirk Muller and Gary Roberts, both of whom enjoyed successful careers in the NHL.