Brandon Coe is all too familiar with the 401 between Durham Region and Westwood Arena. Commuting from his hometown of Ajax since Minor Peewee to play with the Toronto Nationals, Coe’s long car rides paid off when he was selected third overall by the North Bay Battalion – the highest GTHL skater to be drafted for 2017.

A big body presence with incredible scoring touch, Coe finished the season with 33 points in 31 games, including 17 goals and 16 assists. Nats assistant coach, Wayne Primeau, says the strides Coe has taken with his development this year will help him thrive in the OHL.

“This year he took next step in terms of development and played a lot more physical,” said Primeau. “In terms of skating he’s always been a good skater as a big guy. A lot more physical game in and game out this season, great knack for scoring. Huge part of our success.”

Coe is excited to be taking the next step in his hockey career, as he will get a great opportunity to work with the Battalion staff as he prepares for his rookie year in the OHL.

“I’m looking forward to working with a great coaching staff lead by Stan Butler, meeting the team, and seeing the great fan base in North Bay.”

Although starting a new chapter in his life, Coe was quick to reminisce about the great memories and moments he’s had with his teammates and in the GTHL.

“The Top Prospects Game, winning the GTHL Kraft Cup, and playing in the finals of the OHL Cup, and the most memorable moments were spent with my teammates before and after games, especially at tournaments.”

Coe looks to bring a winning pedigree to a Battalion team in need of a spark, after finishing the season with a 24-38-4-2 record in 2016/17. A total of nine players from the Toronto Nationals were drafted at this year’s OHL Priority Selection. Coe was one of three GTHL players drafted by the Battalion. David Cunti and Harrison Caines, both of the Toronto Titans, will join Coe in North Bay.