The Fort Frances Lakers head coach is being recognized as the top coach in the league with the announcement coming Thursday morning as the team prepares to play in the league finals.
“As a first year coaching, I couldn’t have asked for a better year,” Judson said shortly after the announcement was made on the league’s social media and web pages.
“Obviously we still have one more goal in mind but to get recognized is special.”
Judson’s selection as Coach of the Year reflects one of the most complete turnarounds in recent SIJHL history. During the ‘25–’26 season, he coached the Fort Frances Lakers to a first‑place overall finish, posting a 37‑7‑2‑2 record and 78 points. The Lakers’ .813 points percentage led the SIJHL, while their seven regulation losses were the fewest by any team, a testament to nightly consistency and preparation.
Judson was thankful to the rest of the coaches as well. A staff that was made up by Lakers alumnus Foster Couvier, Mike Parisien, and Joe Basaraba.
“They came into this year not knowing how I was gonna pull it off and stay organized,” he said.
“I got a group of guys that were committed from day one with what I’m trying to do and on board with the level of professionalism that we wanted to have here, so a big thanks to them.”
Over the course of the season the Lakers proved to be the stingiest defense in the league. The Lakers allowed just 98 goals in 48 games, the lowest goals‑against total in the SIJHL, supported by structured team defense and elite goaltending. The result was a +83 goal differential, reinforcing the Lakers reputation as the most complete team from puck drop to final buzzer. Their strong finish to the season secured a first‑round playoff bye, earned through sustained performance rather than short‑term success.
This achievement represents the culmination of a three‑year rebuild. After spending multiple seasons near the bottom of the standings, Judson invested in player development, accountability, and culture. The 2025–26 Lakers exemplified that vision, transforming long‑term growth into league‑leading results under his steady leadership.
Judson offered his appreciation to the players who got the team to the finals.
“Ultimately, this award is generally dictated by what the team does and what the players do and how they connect,” he said.
“They bought into what I’m trying to do here so thanks goes to them.”
Judson also expressed his thanks to his wife Tara who is responsible for most of the team’s social media presence.
“Also most importantly a big thank you to my wife Tara. She spends more time than anyone behind the scenes making me and the players look good, and promoting the team and Fort Frances.”
Judson also thanked his father, Morris, who ran the family business when he was away from home.
“I took over the company last year, and obviously that’s a lot on its own, but to be able to have him manning the ship when I’m not around and keeping things organized at M.L. Judson, that’s not something I’d be able to do without him,” Judson said. “Knowing how important it is to me to be involved with the hockey team, as much as I think he’d rather I’d be at work some days, I think he sees the bigger picture of what we’re doing here as well. He deserves a lot of the credit for what he’s done to support me and the team over the last few years.”
Over the course of the last few weeks, the league has announced it’s awards. Lakers Forward Gregory Wiseman was named the SIJHL League Ambassador who was recognized for his work representing the team in Rainy River District schools.
Lakers goaltender and Emo native Brady Cates was named both Rookie of the Year and Goaltender of the year after an amazing rookie season that saw him top the league in multiple statistics categories.
The Lakers resume their quest to capture the team’s first SIJHL title in 10 years Friday night at 7:45 p.m. at Ice For Kids Arena. Advance tickets are available in person at Northwoods Gallery and Gifts or online at fortfranceslakers.simpletix.ca. Credit and debit cards will also be accepted at the gates.
-With files from the Superior International Junior Hockey League.
