MARKHAM, ON – The Markham Royals are excited to announce the additions of forwards Hughston Hurt and Josh Caesar ahead of the upcoming season, adding two talented players with valuable junior hockey experience to the Royals lineup.
HUGHSTON HURT
Hurt joins the Royals after spending the past three seasons with the Sarnia Sting of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL).
Originally selected by Sarnia in the fourth round, 69th overall, of the 2023 OHL Priority Selection, Hurt established himself as a dependable two-way defenceman during his time with the Sting. He appeared in more than 180 OHL games, gaining significant major junior experience while taking on an increasingly important role on Sarnia’s blue line.
Known for his mobility, competitiveness and ability to play a strong two-way game, Hurt adds experience and stability to the Royals’ defensive group.
“We’re extremely excited to add Hughston to our group. Anytime you can bring in a player with his level of OHL experience, it makes your team better. He’s competitive, he moves well, and he understands what it takes to play at a high level. We believe he can make a major impact for us both on and off the ice.”
JOSH CAESAR
Caesar comes to Markham following a strong season with the Port Colborne Sailors of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL).
The forward recorded 15 goals and 20 assists for 35 points in 54 games with the Sailors during the 2025-26 season, providing Port Colborne with another offensive threat while demonstrating his ability to contribute consistently throughout the year.
Caesar gives the Royals another skilled option up front and brings junior hockey experience to a forward group looking to play with pace, energy and competitiveness.
“Josh is a player we’re really excited to bring into our organization. He had a strong year in Port Colborne and has shown that he can produce offensively at the junior level. We really like his size, speed, energy and skill that he brings, and we think there is another level to his game that our coaching staff can help him reach.”
BUILDING TOWARD THE NEW SEASON
The additions of Hurt and Caesar represent another step in the Royals’ preparation for the upcoming season as the organization continues to establish a roster built around competitiveness, development and a commitment to winning.
“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Hughston and Josh to Markham. Both players bring different elements that make our lineup stronger, and, most importantly, they are hungry to come in and contribute. There’s a lot of excitement around this group and around the direction of the organization. We believe these two additions make us a better hockey team, and we’re looking forward to seeing them in Royals colours.”
The Markham Royals would like to officially welcome Hughston Hurt, Josh Caesar and their families to Markham.
