Men's Hockey | 1/27/2026 10:00:00 AM
The professional hockey landscape is gaining two of the York University Lions men's hockey team's most influential leaders in recent weeks, now-alumni Owen Gilhula and Cole Beamin have singed professional contracts, Gilhula in France and Beamin in the ECHL.
Gilhula, the 2024-25 OUA East Champion of EDI Award winner, has inked a deal with L'Hockey Courchevel-Méribel-Pralognan (HCMP) Bouquetins of the Federation Francaise de Hockey sur Glace (FFHG) Division 1, the nation's second professional league. A standout centre known for a signature blend of speed and skill, Gilhula arrived in Europe with a resume that already commanded respect across the hockey world. Before becoming a cornerstone of the Lions' offense, he established himself as a premier point generator with the Sudbury Wolves of the Ontario Hockey League, proving early on that he possessed a high-level scoring touch.
That offensive instinct translated seamlessly to the university level at York, where Gilhula logged 54 points in 104 games over his tenure. He earned a reputation as a versatile forward capable of swinging the momentum of any game, whether through a clinical power-play setup or a gritty individual effort. His adaptation to the European style of play has been immediate; Gilhula has already racked up eight points in his first five games with Les Bouquetins after making his pro debut on Jan. 10.
While Gilhula finds his footing in the rinks of France, defenseman Cole Beamin is making his own mark closer to home by signing with the Norfolk Admirals of the ECHL. Beamin's journey to the professional ranks is a testament to the reliability and grit he provided the Lions' blueline throughout his tenure. Known for his "every-game" dependability, Beamin grew into a vital leader, a role officially recognized when he was named an associate captain for the 2025-26 season, prior to putting pen to paper on his professional deal.
His path to this milestone was paved through some of Canada's most demanding junior environments, including parts of four seasons with the Nipawin Hawks of the SJHL parts of three with the WHL's Prince George Cougars. Over his junior career Beamin amassed 29 points (7-22-29) in 157 games between the Hawks and Cougars. At York, Beamin registered nine points (1-8-9) in 88 career games. By bringing his physical presence and seasoned hockey IQ to Norfolk, Beamin continues a proud tradition of York alumni who have successfully navigated the rigors of the OUA to find a home in the professional game. Two of the most recent, defencemen Michael Douglas and Xavier Pouliot, each spent time in the ECHL.
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