Written By: Rory McGouran
Photo: Patrick Garriepy Photography

The Northeast Generals are proud to announce that Captain Cole McKenna has secured his collegiate commitment to play hockey at the University of Prince Edward Island in USPORTS in Canada, and join the Panthers Men’s Hockey program for the 2026-27 campaign.

No current General has suited up for more games than Cole McKenna, and following the conclusion of the regular season, his 115 games played will slot in the top-20 all-time for the organization.

The Ontario, Canada native started his NAHL career in 2024-25 following two seasons in the Ontario Junior Hockey League. Mckenna has since amassed 47 points (10g-37a) in 111 games, missing only three games throughout the past two seasons.

“We’re so excited for Cole. He’s an amazing young man and hockey player. Cole came to our main camp last season and beat out a lot of draft picks and tenders for a top-4 role for us. Just came in, played well, and outworked everyone, and that is why he is our captain this year. He has the complete and total respect of every player and employee in the organization, and this team has taken on a lot of his personality. Work hard, have fun, and enjoy each moment. Cole’s commitment is so great for him and his family. To get the chance to play close to home at a great school is amazing. I know he is going to have a huge impact on their organization as he has left large shoes to fill here with the Northeast Generals. I’m so proud to have coached Cole,” said Head Coach and GM Bryan Erikson.

McKenna’s game has blossomed into a minute-munching top-pairing blueliner, responsible in his own zone and smart with the puck. He has been a stalwart on both the power play and penalty kill this season. Consistency has also been the key to his growing success with near-identical offensive seasons, and he very seldom makes mistakes. McKenna is two points away from setting a new personal career-high in the NAHL.

“My mom’s side of the family is from PEI, so I had it in the back of my head that I was probably going to go there. It’s just a perfect fit for my family and me, and it’s a place where I’m very excited to play. It’s an unbelievable feeling to have the pressure off you and secure a commitment for next season, and I’ve been trying to help a lot of the other guys this year go through the process as well.  The Generals organization has been amazing in getting me ready for the next level, and I’m excited to take that step next year,” said McKenna.

McKenna has played 191 games in his Junior Career between the OJHL and NAHL.

UPEI is located in Charlottetown, PEI, CAN, and competes in the AUS (Atlantic University Sport) Division of USPORTS in Canada.

The Northeast Generals organization would like to congratulate Cole and his family on his accomplishment.