Miami University defenseman Charlie Michaud has made a surprising mid-season departure, leaving the RedHawks to join the Penticton Vees of the Western Hockey League (WHL). The announcement has stirred discussion among college hockey fans and observers, as Michaud was expected to be a part of Miami's defensive core this season.
Michaud, a freshman from Denver, Colorado, had appeared in 6 games for the RedHawks this season. Before joining Miami, the 5-foot-11, 195-pound defenseman served as an assistant captain for the USHL's Madison Capitols in the 2024-25 season, amassing 32 points (5 goals, 27 assists) in 61 games. He also earned the title of USHL Defenseman of the Week twice. His prior experience includes time with Little Caesars AAA teams, where he also served as an assistant captain.
The Penticton Vees are a junior ice hockey franchise that joined the WHL as an expansion team for the 2025-26 season. The Vees have a long history in Penticton, dating back to 1961. The team plays its home games at the South Okanagan Events Centre (SOEC). The Vees have transitioned from the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), where they were a dominant force, winning a league-record 14 Fred Page Cup championships.
The Vees are off to a strong start in their inaugural WHL season, holding a record of 16 wins, 9 losses, 4 overtime losses, and 3 shootout losses as of the Christmas break. This places them second overall in the WHL's Western Conference. Their home opener was a sold-out event, demonstrating the community's enthusiasm for WHL hockey.
The specific reasons for Michaud's departure from Miami remain unclear, but the opportunity to play in the WHL with a competitive team like the Vees was likely a significant factor. The WHL is a major junior league, offering a different development path than college hockey, with a stronger focus on preparing players for professional careers.
The move allows Michaud to join a Penticton team that is aiming high in its first WHL season. For the Vees, adding a player with Michaud's experience and leadership qualities from his time in the USHL could provide a boost to their defensive corps as they continue their inaugural campaign..
