From Clearmeadow to Connor McDavid Square: A True Newmarket Ward 6 Story
Before he became an NHL superstar and captain of the Edmonton Oilers, Connor McDavid was just a kid from Ward 6 from growing up in the Summerhill North neighbourhood of Newmarket. His roots run deep here. From skating on frozen ponds to stickhandling through paint can drills in the driveway, Connor was chasing his dream with quiet determination, right in the heart of our community.
He began his education at Clearmeadow Public School, where his talent was unmistakable and his sportsmanship stood out. After leading his Grade 5 floor hockey team to victory, he declined the MVP trophy, saying it should go to his teammates. As his teacher Michaela McKeown put it:
"We already knew he was special. But at that moment, I realized he was exceptional, someone who was going to do great things."
Go Connor Go!
Go Connor Go!
At Sir William Mulock Secondary School, Connor continued his rise, balancing academics with a hockey schedule few could keep up with. And today, in a full-circle moment, my son Jack now uses Connor’s old locker at Mulock, proof that the legacy lives on in the very halls where it all began.
Connor also played for the York Simcoe Express coached by his dad, Brian winning four OMHA championships before moving on to the Toronto Marlboros and eventually, the Erie Otters.
I had the honour of meeting Connor in 2017 while working with NewRoads Automotive Group at the NewRoads Children’s Dream Golf Tournament founded by John Taylor, where he played in the foursome with NewRoads CEO Michael Croxon. That day raised over $100,000!. Connor didn’t just show up he showed heart, giving back to the town that raised him.
Now, with the Oilers charging through the 2025 NHL Playoffs, the pride in Newmarket is stronger than ever. Hallways at Clearmeadow are lined with jerseys, kids at Mulock wear No. 97, and families across town are coming together to cheer.
Connor McDavid Square is Back!
Game 1 – Wednesday, June 4 at 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Commons
Game 2 – Friday, June 6 at 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Commons
Game 3 – Monday, June 9 at 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Commons
Game 4 – Thursday, June 12 at 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Commons
Pending results from games 1 to 4
Game 5 – Saturday, June 14 at 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Commons
Game 6 – Tuesday, June 17 at 8 p.m. at Riverwalk Commons
Game 7 – Friday, June 20 at 8 p.m. at the Magna Centre
Where:
Games 1 to 6 at Newmarket's Riverwalk Commons a.k.a. Connor McDavid Square (200 Doug Duncan Drive)
Game 7 at the Magna Centre south parking lot (800 Mulock Drive)
Get the full story at www.newmarket.ca/cupfinal
Riverwalk Commons & the Magna Centre will be alive with excitement as we gather to support our hometown hero. Expect to hear the cheers from Clearmeadow, from Mulock, from every corner of Newmarket.
Bring it home for Newmarket, Connor, we’re with you all the way.
Be proud. Be loud. Let’s celebrate!