Hamilton forward Justin DeZoete joins Axemen hockey program

The Acadia Axemen have added another experienced offensive talent to their roster with the commitment of forward Justin DeZoete.

The 6’0, left-shot winger from Hamilton, Ont., brings a wealth of major junior experience to Wolfville after skating in 204 regular season games in the Ontario Hockey League. DeZoete suited up for the Peterborough Petes, Mississauga Steelheads, Guelph Storm and Soo Greyhounds, tallying 26 goals and 37 assists during his OHL career.

“Justin is going to be an extremely valuable player for us to add to our program. He is a power forward who possesses a well-rounded skill set,” said head coach Darren Burns. “He is smart, skates well, has good size and plays the game very hard. He has the ability to take on many responsibilities and this speaks to how well rounded of a player he is. We believe his game continues to get better and he is a determined person with a lot of focus. When you can bring a player in who has a strong 200-foot game and possesses offence that’s a great addition.”

In the second half of the 2024-25 season, DeZoete joined the Milton Menace of the OJHL and made an immediate impact, recording 11 goals and 32 assists in just 26 games. He continued to shine in the playoffs, notching six goals and 19 assists across 20 postseason games.

“Committing to Acadia has me extremely excited for what’s to come,” said DeZoete. “I couldn’t have asked for a better place to continue my career as a student-athlete. The hockey program and academics are top tier, which made the decision a no-brainer. I can’t wait to get to Wolfville and get things started.”

DeZoete will enrol in the business program at Acadia University this fall as he begins his U SPORTS career.