Thunderbirds Bolster Blueline with Addition of Niagara Falls’ Max DeCoff for the 2025/2026 Season
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On Friday, June 7th, the Soo Thunderbirds officially announced the signing of defenseman Max DeCoff to their 2025-2026 NOJHL roster. Hailing from Niagara Falls, Ontario, the 2006-born blueliner brings size, grit, and a two-way presence to the Thunderbirds’ back end as they prepare for another competitive season in the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League.
Standing at 6’0″ and 190 lbs, DeCoff is set to make his impact known on both sides of the puck. A graduate of the Wyoming Seminary 18U Prep Blue Knights program in the Midwest Prep Hockey League, DeCoff suited up in 20 regular season games over the 2023 to 2025 seasons, registering two goals and one assist while playing a steady, physical style.
“I am a physical two-way defenseman. I love always being involved in the play whether it’s in the offensive zone or defensive zone, and I’m not afraid to put my body on the line to help my teammates,” said DeCoff. “I chose to play in Sault Ste. Marie because I believe it’s a great opportunity to play in a strong and reputable program, especially in a hockey town that my family is familiar with. I believe I’ll get the development I need to become a better person and the type of player I want to become.”
Thunderbirds General Manager Jamie Henderson praised the addition of DeCoff, emphasizing the team’s focus on adding toughness and grit to the roster following physical playoff battles in recent seasons.
“Based on our last couple playoff seasons, it was evident we needed to add some physicality to our group. It’s a physical league and we’ll be ready for that from the puck drop in September with players such as Max and others we have signed,” said Henderson. “We are really excited to add Max and his family to our program here. This physical and sometimes nasty playoffs we are watching in the NHL is something our latest commitment won’t shy away from next season.”
With the addition of Max DeCoff, the Soo Thunderbirds continue to strengthen their roster with a clear vision for success and playoff readiness heading into the 2025-2026 campaign.
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