Photo courtesy of Peterborough Petes
Peterborough Petes Video Coach and Assistant to the General Manager Alex Darling is representing Canada this week at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Truro, Nova Scotia.
Darling was officially named Video Coach for Team Canada White, joining a staff led by former Petes captain and current Sudbury Wolves head coach Scott Barney. The week-long tournament runs until November 8, bringing together the country’s top young hockey talent. Also representing Canada at the event is Petes forward and first overall pick Kaden McGregor.
Darling says it’s an incredible honour to be part of Hockey Canada’s program and to represent the country on a world stage.
Darling’s role will mirror what he does with the Petes — breaking down plays, preparing scouting video, and working closely with coaches during and after games.
He says the work will be familiar, though the tournament uses a different software and programming, adding an extra layer of learning to the experience.
The 27-year-old joined the Petes hockey operations staff four years ago and has been part of a growing emphasis on analytics and technology across the Ontario Hockey League. He says the video side of the game is constantly evolving — especially now that teams can challenge goals, similar to the NHL.
Darling says improved camera systems and review tools have made video analysis more important than ever, helping ensure accuracy and giving teams a competitive edge.
Representing Canada is something he’s aspired to since joining the OHL, adding that it’s a milestone moment, made even better by the chance to work with familiar faces, especially McGregor.
As the tournament gets underway in Truro, Darling says he’s focused on learning, contributing, and soaking in the experience. For the Petes organization, it’s another proud moment — one of their own helping shape the next generation of Canadian hockey talent.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
