The “AAA” Midget All-Star game will kick-off the first of three games part of the 17th annual Midget All-Star Festival. Forty players representing all 12  “AAA” Clubs will take to the ice Friday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m. at Scotiabank Pond.

For the players selected to participate, the Midget All-Star Festival marks an opportunity to showcase their talents to OHL scouts.

“I’m looking forward to playing with and against the best players in the league and the opportunity to get exposure,” said Toronto Young Nationals forward Austin Brimmer.

Brimmer is one of nine players taking to the ice who were selected in the 2017 OHL Draft. The remaining 31 undrafted players will be aiming to catch the eyes of scouts for the OHL Under-18 Priority Selection.

Unless players go on to play U-21 “AAA” hockey, their Midget season is often regarded as their “graduation” from minor hockey. Many will go on to pursue post-secondary studies, while others continue their hockey careers at a higher level.

“I have played hockey since the age of 5,” explained Toronto Titans forward Ryan Nichol. “I hope to continue my hockey career, work on my game and play at the highest level that I’m capable of.”

The first place Toronto Young Nationals and second place Mississauga Rebels will each have seven players represented, followed by the Mississauga Senators who will send six players. Players game were selected to participate after being extensively observed by a team of evaluators. The coaching staff for both teams were selected based on standings as of late December.

Admission to the “AAA” Midget All-Star Game is free of charge.

Click here for the full roster.