SARNIA LEGIONNAIRES

(1954 - 1970)

The Sarnia Junior Sailors (Their Senior team had been called Sailors as well) changed their name to the Sarnia Legionnaires in 1954. Their OHA grouping evolved into the Western Ontario Junior 'B' League in 1956. By the late 1960's, the league had aspirations of becoming a Junior 'A' League. When they were rebuffed by the OHA, they broke away and formed a rebel league called the Western Ontario Junior 'A' Hockey League in 1968. The League no doubt was following the example of the WCHL (now WHL) who had successfully went against the grain. In fact, these two leagues had their champions play off for their own national title parallel to the Memorial Cup. The Sarnia Legionnaires faced competition in their own market in 1969, when the Sarnia Bees were formed. Despite their longevity in the community, the Legionnaires lost out for the town's support and folded midseason during the 1969-70 campaign.

 

 

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