The memory of Noah Dugas is being recognized by many of the players who played with and against him.
The top 2007 birth year players from Northern Ontario gathered at Memorial Gardens in North Bay prior to heading down to the OHL Cup.
Every year, the top northern players are selected to play in the high-profile OHL showcase tournament which runs a few weeks prior to the 2023 OHL Priority Selection.
This year, the Northern Ontario Hockey Association made new jerseys and added the 7N1D logo in memory of Noah, who wore number 71. The seven is also significant to the foundation named after him as seven of his organs were donated to others in need.
"We are truly grateful to the NOHA for recognizing Noah and the 7N1D logo on this year's team jerseys," said Jody Dugas, Noah's mother.
"It is very heartwarming to know that the hockey community continues to support and remember Noah’s story. Forever #71.
"On behalf of the Dugas family, Congratulations and best of luck to all players and staff representing team NOHA at the OHL Cup."
Bryden Shank is one of two North Bay Trappers named to Team NOHA.
"As a friend and a classmate, it is an honour to wear the 7N1D as I never got the opportunity to play with Noah I always looked up to him," said the 16-year-old forward.
"It’s like having a seventh guy out on the ice playing with us. The 7N1D crest keeps me going for those long shifts late in the third period as it gives me the strength and the confidence to push my limits."
Jacob Brown, NOHA's technical director, hopes the logo and Noah's story inspire the team.
"Noah was a smart, talented and loved young man, not just by his family and friends but the entire hockey community," said Brown.
"As a 2007 born player, and someone who in all likelihood would have been battling as hard as he could to Crack this roster, the least the NOHA can do is honor his memory by putting 7N1D over our the left chest on our uniforms..
"Dave, Jody, and Jorja do a fantastic job carrying on Noah's love for not just hockey, but life as well and we are extremely grateful for all of the support they have offered this year's team."
The Noah Strong Foundation was formed to keep Noah's memory alive and with the goal of supporting communities through acts of kindness, selflessness and resilience.
Team NOHA started OHL Cup play on Wednesday.
