SMITHS FALLS, ON – The Smiths Falls Bears are no longer just knocking on the door; they have officially burst through.
In the latest Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) Top 20 Rankings released on February 9, 2026, the Bears made a significant leap, moving from an Honourable Mention status to the No. 14 spot in the nation. This surge highlights the team’s dominant recent form and solidifies their position as a powerhouse within the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL).
Earning National Recognition
The CJHL rankings, which are compiled by an independent scouting service, evaluate over 115 Junior A teams across Canada. For Smiths Falls, the jump to No. 14 marks a turning point in their season. After weeks of steady play that kept them on the periphery of the national conversation, their consistent performance has finally demanded a spot in the Top 20.
The Bears find themselves in elite company, representing one of the CCHL’s strongest showings in recent memory. While the Rockland Nationals continue to lead the country at No. 1 (riding a historic 25-game winning streak), the Bears’ ascent to the middle of the pack suggests they are primed for a deep playoff run.
A Competitive Landscape
The CCHL remains one of the most competitive leagues in the country this year. Beyond the top-ranked Nationals and the 14th-ranked Bears, the league is also represented in the “Honourable Mention” category by the Kemptville 73’s and the Ottawa Jr. Senators.
For the Bears, this national ranking is a testament to their depth and resilience. Navigating a schedule filled with Top-20 contenders requires a high level of nightly preparation, and the Bears have proven they can compete with the best in Ontario and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As the regular season winds down, the national spotlight will only intensify. Holding a Top 20 rank provides a boost in confidence, but for Head Coach and General Manager Pat Malloy’s squad, the focus remains on the ice. With the CCHL playoffs on the horizon, the Bears will look to use this momentum to secure home-ice advantage and prove that their No. 14 ranking is only the beginning.
Fans in Smiths Falls have plenty to be proud of as their team is continued to be recognized as one of the premier Junior A programs in Canada.
