U13 AAA – Justin Collins
Justin brings extensive elite-level experience to his role as Head Coach of the U13 AAA program, with a background that spans playing, coaching, and scouting in Canadian hockey. He played minor hockey with the Whitby Wildcats AAA program before being drafted to the Erie Otters of the OHL in 1996. His playing career also included time with the Pickering Panthers (OJHL).
Transitioning into coaching, Collins served as Head Coach at the AAA level with WMHA from 2009–2019, developing players in a competitive and structured environment. He has also contributed at the highest levels of junior hockey as an OHL Scout with the Hamilton Bulldogs (2015–2023) and the Brantford Bulldogs (2023–2024), including participation as a Coach in multiple OHL Combines.
Through his coaching and scouting roles, Collins has developed a strong understanding of the player development pathway and what is required to progress to the next level. His experience evaluating talent at the OHL level allows him to guide players with age-appropriate expectations, emphasizing skill development, habits, and decision-making that align with long-term success rather than short-term results.
During his time with the Hamilton Bulldogs organization, he was part of teams that captured OHL Championships in 2017–18 and 2021–22, and a Memorial Cup Finalist run in 2022. His additional coaching experience includes serving as an Association Coach Mentor with WGHA, Assistant Coach with the Toronto Red Wings U14 AAA, and Head Coach of the YSE U11 and U12 AAA program.
As a coach, Collins is committed to building a strong team culture while preparing players for future opportunities by helping them understand the standards, work ethic, and mindset required to advance within the game.