U13 AAA Islanders host the first Billy Joe MacLean Memorial
Glenda MacLean is joined by members of Billy Joe MacLean’s family for the opening faceoff of the U13 AAA tournament held in memory of her husband on Friday at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre. Glenda is flanked by sons Paul (left) and Bill. Her son Charles and wife Natalie, and his son Zach and partner Janelle, are behind Paul. And that’s Port Hawkesbury Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton just behind Bill’s shoulder. The four team captains, including Landon Morell of the Cape Breton West Islanders, took part in the ceremony.
January 21, 2026
-by Bill Dunphy
It was only fitting that the house Billy Joe built would be the site of the first Billy Joe MacLean Memorial U13 AAA hockey tournament.
The Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre was bustling this weekend as the Cape Breton West Islanders hosted the inaugural four-team tournament.
Born and raised in Port Hawkesbury, Billy Joe served as a member of the legislative assembly, a member of the provincial cabinet, and as mayor of Port Hawkesbury.
Throughout his career, he worked tirelessly to advance opportunities for the people of his hometown and the surrounding communities.
Several members of Billy Joe’s family were on hand for the opening ceremony on Friday, including Glenda, his wife of 63 years before he passed away last year on April 23.
Joining her at centre ice were three of her sons: Bill, Paul and Charles, and his wife Natalie. Charles’ son Zach and his partner Janelle were also in attendance.
Tournament organizer Rodney MacDonald gave opening remarks and Glenda then dropped the puck with all four team captains there to take the draw.
