Update: Colton Smith named co-Rookie of the Year in Men’s Hockey

Upon further review, it has been confirmed that both Colton Smith of the Windsor Lancers and Conner Roulette of the Saskatchewan Huskies are the 2026 U SPORTS Rookies of the Year in Men's Hockey. 

CLARE DRAKE AWARD (co-Rookie of the Year): Colton Smith, Windsor 

A dynamic offensive force from day one, Colton Smith delivered a standout rookie campaign for the Lancers.

The Windsor, Ont., local helped his side lock up top spot in the OUA West and an 18-win season with his impactful offensive output. The first-year forward finished the regular season with 21 goals, tied for top spot in the conference with fellow Lancer Keegan McMullen, while leading all rookie counterparts across the nation. In his 27 games played, he recorded 29 points, putting him 15th amongst all OUA skaters.

Smith's debut season game log featured five multi-goal games during the regular season, including two hat-tricks. He closed out the Lancers' campaign on a tear with 11 goals in his final seven contests, carrying that momentum into the postseason with yet another three-goal game to his name.

Smith is the first Lancer to take home the award.