The name Holody has been synonymous with hockey teams in Guelph for decades now.
The Guelph Holody Platers dominated Tier II hockey through the 70’s and early 80’s. They won three Ontario Hockey League championships and won the coveted Centennial Cup as the National champions in 1978. The Platers were so dominant, they were named the Tier II ‘Franchise of the Century’ by the OHA. In 1982 after a long fight to bring Major Junior hockey back to Guelph, the Platers (named after Holody’s electro-plating business) joined the Ontario Hockey League. Then in 1986, under the leadership of his son Rob Holody (General Manager) and coach Jacques Martin, they won the Memorial Cup. It was the first for Guelph since 1952. The Platers later moved to Owen Sound where they continue to compete in the OHL.
‘Smokin Joe’ as he’s known to any of his friends still sponsors minor hockey teams in the Royal City along with the Junior B Platers. Holody was named ‘Man of the Year’ in Guelph in 1981. He has received the OHA’s Gold Stick Award, received the Order of Merit from the Province of Ontario in 1980 and is well known for his work with the mentally handicapped. Joe Holody is an outstanding citizen and we are proud to call him our own.
Inducted into the Guelph Sports Hall of Fame May 8, 1995
