Axemen welcome forward Ryder McIntyre

The Acadia Axemen have added size, leadership, and major junior experience to their forward group with the commitment of 6’4 forward Ryder McIntyre from Stouffville, Ont., ahead of the 2025–26 season.

McIntyre played 211 regular season games in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) from 2021 to 2025, beginning his career with the Sarnia Sting before moving on to the Oshawa Generals and Peterborough Petes. Over four seasons, he recorded 31 goals and 38 assists, while also appearing in 11 playoff games.

“Ryder will add excellent size and grit to our lineup,” said Acadia head coach Darren Burns. “He plays a physical style but is a smart player who has a lot of flexibility in his game. He can play all forward positions which is invaluable. He will be a big asset down below the circles in the offensive zone. Getting to the crease for rebounds is essential in our league and this is something he thrives on. He has a team first attitude and will bring lots of enthusiasm to our lineup.

He finished his junior career with the Toronto Junior Canadiens of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL), contributing three goals and eight assists in 16 regular season games, and adding another three goals and four assists in 11 playoff appearances.

McIntyre is also recognized for his work in the classroom, having received the Roger Nelson Memorial Award as the OHL’s Top Academic Post-Secondary Student in 2022–23 while playing for Oshawa.

“I am very excited to commit to Acadia and play for such a great program,” said McIntyre. “It's felt like the perfect fit from the beginning—from the schooling, community, coaching staff, and players, the program is nothing short of first-class.”

McIntyre will study business administration at Acadia while continuing his hockey career in the AUS.