PJHL Mourns the Loss of Former Kincardine Bulldogs GM and PJHL Official Doug Kennedy

Cambridge, ON – The Provincial Junior Hockey League is saddened by the news of the passing of former Kincardine Bulldogs General Manager and long-time PJHL official, Doug Kennedy. Doug passed away on Thursday, August 15^th after his long battle with cancer. Doug was 70-years old.

Doug operated as the Kincardine General Manager for over 25 years, bringing a competitive team to the town Kincardine and helping develop many young players over his time. Doug was one of the founders of today’s PJHL, serving as the league’s North Conference Manager. PJHL Commissioner Terry Whiteside praised Doug’s service to the league and his care for his peers.

“Doug was a fierce competitor and a very good friend to many of us,” says Terry. “He was a very selfless individual and gave far more than he ever asked for. He was one of the founders of today’s PJHL and he worked tirelessly with all of us to make our league the best it can be.”

Doug Kennedy was awarded the Ontario Hockey Association’s prestige Golden Stick award for 50 years of outstanding service to hockey in Kincardine. Doug and his team recently celebrated the honour of hosting the OHA AGM in the town in June, a long-time goal of his.

“It was always a goal of his to be able to host the OHA AGM and Doug showed us all the courage he had and the work he put into planning this year’s AGM while being in the middle of his own battle,” says Terry Whiteside.

Kincardine Bulldogs General Manager Warren Beisel reflected on his time together with Doug.

“Doug has been a close friend of mine since moving to Kincardine in the 80’s,” says Warren. “His impact on our community will live on forever.  Doug cared so much about every person he met, he wanted the very best for all.  He would go out of his way to assist others in the time of need.”

Doug’s services to the town of Kincardine went further than hockey, as he served as municipal councillor for nearly 6 years. Kincardine Mayor Kenneth Craig reflected on his impact in the community in the town’s press release.

“Doug Kennedy was more than just a member of council, he was the heartbeat of sports, recreation, and health care in our community,” said Kenneth Craig. “His passion for local sports was unmatched. His legacy of tournaments and health care fundraising events fostered a love of sports and a sense of community spirit that will endure for generations.”

The league send’s it’s condolences to Doug’s family and friends, the Kincardine community, and all affected by the loss. The town of Kincardine welcomes individuals to send their thoughts, photos and memories through their Online Book of Remembrance.

A Memorial Service, to honour Doug’s life will be held on Sunday, September 1, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at the Davidson Centre. Attendees are encouraged to wear their favourite sports jerseys, at Doug’s request.

Please direct questions and inquiries to the league:

Mitchell Giamou

Social Media & Marketing Manager

Marketing@thepj.ca

289-681-2448

About the Provincial Junior Hockey League

The Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) is made up of 63 franchises across Ontario and is the largest junior hockey league in the world. We are proud to provide opportunities for more than 1,500 players to play competitive hockey while continuing to pursue their post-secondary education and career ambitions.