Michael Babcock has been named the youngest head coach in Brantford Bulldogs history, the Ontario Hockey League team announced Wednesday. Babcock, 28, joins the Bulldogs after serving as an assistant coach with the American Hockey League's San Diego Gulls during the 2025-26 season.
Babcock replaces former head coach Jay McKee, who left the organization after three seasons to pursue other opportunities. The Bulldogs are coming off a season where they finished fifth in the OHL's Western Conference with a 34-28-6 record, losing in the first round of the playoffs to the London Knights.
"We are thrilled to welcome Michael to the Bulldogs family," said team president and general manager Matt Turek in a statement. "His knowledge of the game, work ethic, and ability to connect with players will be invaluable as we continue to build a championship-caliber team."
Babcock's coaching career began as an assistant with the OHL's Saginaw Spirit in 2022-23 before moving to the Gulls. He played four seasons of college hockey at the University of Windsor, where he served as team captain.
"I am honored and excited to lead the Brantford Bulldogs," Babcock said. "This is a tremendous opportunity, and I look forward to working with our players and staff to bring a championship to Brantford."
The Bulldogs open the 2026-27 season on the road against the Kitchener Rangers on September 25.
