The WHL’s Prince George Cougars have announced that 2009-born forward Cole Hajt has signed with the organization.

Hajt was selected by the Cougars in the first round (21st overall) of the 2024 WHL U.S. Priority Draft.

The El Segundo product spent the 2024-25 season with the Anaheim Jr. Ducks’ U15 AAA team where he tallied 70 points (26 goals, 44 assists) and 67 penalty minutes over 66 games. Hajt previously skated for the Los Angeles Jr. Kings.

“When I first saw him, his upside and potential were so obvious,” said Cougars director of scouting Bob Simmonds. “Cole is a big-bodied center who continues to get better with every shift and every game. He’s just scratching the surface of where he’s going to end up as a player.

“Cole comes from a strong hockey family, and having him choose the Cougars is a big moment for our organization. We’re thrilled to welcome Cole and his family to the Cougars.”

Hockey runs deep in the Hajt family. Cole’s father Chris played over 500 professional games in the NHL, AHL and Europe, and represented Team USA at the World Junior Championship in 1997, winning a silver medal, and 1998. He is the current assistant coach of the AHL’s Ontario Reign. His grandfather Bill played more than 850 NHL games for the Buffalo Sabres from 1974–87.

Photo/Prince George Cougars

— Prince George Cougars Staff

(May 21, 2025)