Photo courtesy: Emily Simonetta
The Peterborough Petes have added another local product to their roster, signing forward James McMurray to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.
Petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke announced the signing of the 2007-born forward, who grew up watching the team he will now join.
“It’s a dream come true to join the Petes, the team I grew up watching,” McMurray said. “I can’t wait to get the season started.”
The Fenelon Falls native has spent the past two seasons playing for Berkshire School in Sheffield, Massachusetts, recording 78 points in 65 games in the New England Prep School Athletic Council.
McMurray previously played for the Central Ontario Wolves organization and suited up for the Peterborough Petes U18 team during the 2023-24 season. He led the team in scoring that year with 47 points in 34 games and also appeared in three games with the Lindsay Muskies of the Ontario Junior Hockey League.
Oke says the organization has been monitoring McMurray’s development for several years.
“James is a player we’ve been tracking since his days with the Central Ontario Wolves,” Oke said. “He’s a skilled forward who competes hard every shift and is coming off two strong seasons at Berkshire School in Massachusetts.”
McMurray also attended the Petes’ Development Camp in 2024, giving the team an opportunity to evaluate his skills and compete level.
The signing continues the Petes’ focus on developing local talent and adding players with strong connections to the region.


