By: Nylah Henry
Will McCulligh, the hat-trick hero, has been absolutely dominating the competition in the 2025-26 season. Scoring hat-tricks in three separate regular-season games this season, the 18-year-old from Ottawa, ON, has a bright future with the Ottawa West Golden Knights.
Born in Kanata, ON, McCulligh has been setting plays and lighting the lamp since the young age of 3.
The left winger, wearing number 22, contributes greatly to the Golden Knights. Bringing notable scoring ability, significant playmaking skills, and great offensive IQ.
The 18-year-old has also secured All-Star recognition. McCulligh was selected to be a part of the EOJHL (Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League) All-Star Game on December 15, 2025. He played in the Martin Division alongside five of his teammates.
McCulligh spent two years with the Carlton Place Jr Canadians (EOJHL) before being traded to the Ottawa West Golden Knights for the 2025-26 season.
Previously, McCulligh’s favourite player was Thomas Chabot, a defender for the Ottawa Senators. He now idolizes Tim Stützle, a centerman for the Ottawa Senators.
McCulligh and Stützle both play a similar game, sharing qualities such as being strong playmakers, fast skaters and having high hockey IQ.
To get hyped for the game, you can find McCulligh listening to anything from the band AC/DC.
Without having any pre-game rituals or superstitions, McCulligh says he will “Usually play ‘sewer ball’ with the boys” before the game to help get warmed up.
Off the ice, McCulligh enjoys playing golf in the off-season to keep in shape.
Will McCulligh’s scoring ability and fast reaction playmaking skills make him a must-watch player on the Ottawa West Golden Knights for the 2025-26 EOJHL hockey season.
