Since 1980 the league has grown rapidly into a high-profile marketable product, with many games broadcast on television and radio.

In 1896 the OHA moved to the modern age-limited junior hockey concept, distinct from senior and intermediate divisions.

Gold stars denote J. Ross Robertson Cup (League championship) winners The 20 OHL clubs play a 68-game unbalanced schedule, which starts in the third full week of September, running until the third week of March.

Ninety percent (90%) of OHL games are scheduled between Thursday and Sunday to minimize the number of school days missed for its players.

The J. Ross Robertson Cup is awarded annually to the winner of the Championship Series.

The Cup is named for John Ross Robertson, who was president of the Ontario Hockey Association from 1901 to 1905.

[9] The Memorial Cup has been captured 18 times by OHL/OHA teams since the tournament went to a three-league format in 1972: The Cup was also won 16 times by OHA teams in the period between 1945 and 1971: The OHL's predecessor, the OHA, had a midget and juvenile draft dating back to the 50s, until voted out in 1962.

Originally the draft was for 17-year-old midgets not already associated with teams through their sponsored youth programs.

Prior to 2001, the OHL held the Priority Selection in a public forum, such as an arena.

This move reduced the stress and pressure that prospective players faced with a large crowd present.