Carson Woodall: A Dual Threat On and Off the Ice for Windsor Spitfires
Windsor Spitfires defenceman Carson Woodall has achieved a remarkable distinction in the Ontario Hockey League, being nominated for two prestigious awards that highlight his excellence both as a player and as a community leader. The 19-year-old from Belle River is a finalist for the Max Kaminsky Award, recognizing the OHL's top defenceman, and the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the league's humanitarian of the year.
On-Ice Excellence: A Standout Season
Woodall's nomination for the Max Kaminsky Award comes after a breakout offensive season. Selected by the Spitfires in the 10th round of the 2022 draft, the five-foot-eleven, 179-pound blueliner played in all 68 regular-season games, finishing second in league scoring among defencemen with 12 goals and 63 points, along with a plus-17 rating. His performance has been instrumental to the team's success.
"I thought I had a good season finishing second in defenceman scoring," Woodall remarked, expressing gratitude for the recognition. Spitfires general manager Bill Bowler added, "Carson's on-ice work speaks for itself. He's been a top scorer all year."
He faces stiff competition for the top defenceman award from Barrie's Kashawn Aitcheson, who led the position in scoring, Ottawa's Frankie Marrelli, and Sault Ste. Marie's Chase Reid.
Humanitarian Efforts: Woody's Hoodies Charity
Beyond the rink, Woodall's nomination for the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy underscores his impactful charitable work. In March 2024, he co-founded Woody's Hoodies with his father, Scott Woodall, an apparel initiative dedicated to supporting cancer research. The charity was inspired by his grandmothers: Deborah O'Brien, who passed away from breast cancer in 2023, and Carol Woodall, who has battled ovarian cancer.
"When I first started it, I thought, 'If I could raise $5,000, I'd be happy,' and we passed that in the first month," Woodall shared. In just over two years, Woody's Hoodies has raised more than $175,000, far exceeding initial expectations. "At the point we're at now, it's about growing and doing more for more people," he emphasized.
For the humanitarian award, Woodall is up against Windsor native Thanasi Marentette of Peterborough, Brantford's David Egorov, Erie's Tristen Trevino, and Sarnia's Beckham Edwards.
Team Focus and Future Plans
Despite the accolades, Woodall remains focused on his team's playoff run, with the Spitfires set to open the Western Conference final against the Kitchener Rangers. "It's cool to be nominated, and I'd like to win, but my focus is to win with the team," he stated. "Winning with the Spitfires has been my dream my whole life. That's what I've dreamed of my whole life."
Spitfires head coach Greg Walters praised Woodall's contributions, saying, "So proud of Carson. An amazing charity that he is very focused on, and obviously he has turned himself into one of the top defencemen in our league. We would definitely not be where we are without him."
Looking ahead, Woodall is scheduled to join Boston College in the NCAA next season but plans to continue his charitable efforts. "We're planning on keeping it going," he affirmed. "It's been an incredible journey, and we're hoping for better things. We'll keep it going and raising money for cancer research. I think it's something special, and we want to keep it moving forward."
Woodall's dual nominations highlight a rare combination of athletic prowess and philanthropic dedication, making him a standout figure in the OHL and a source of pride for the Windsor community.
