NCDC Die-Hards: Mercer Chiefs’ Justin Ouellet
The decision to return to the NCDC for a second season with the Mercer Chiefs was a natural one for forward Justin Ouellet, who has embraced both the challenges and opportunities that come with competing in the Atlantic Conference.
“Deciding to come back for a second season was pretty easy,” Ouellet said. “The team has an amazing culture, the coaches are great, and my teammates make it fun to come to the rink every day. Last season really helped me grow as a player and as a person, and I felt like I still had more to give on the ice and more ways to improve. Coming back just felt like the right move for my development.”
That commitment to development is clear when Ouellet reflects on how his game has evolved since arriving in the NCDC. 
“Since I joined the Chiefs, I’ve improved my decision-making under pressure, my speed of play and my ability to contribute in all situations,” he said. “The pace and the physicality of the league have pushed me to adapt quickly and that’s helped me grow a lot.”
Heading into 2025–26, Ouellet is determined to keep climbing as he works toward earning attention from college and higher-level junior programs.
“This season I really want to keep building my offensive game, working on my shot, my playmaking and creating more chances off the rush,” Ouellet said. “At the same time, I’m focusing on my defensive awareness and compete level so I can be trusted in any situation.”
The NCDC and the Atlantic Conference, in particular, have provided the perfect stage for that growth.
“The NCDC is a fast, skilled and competitive league. Every game is a challenge, which forces me to bring my best every night,” he said. “Playing in the Atlantic Conference means facing tough opponents regularly and that kind of competition is exactly what helps players get noticed and prepared for the next level.”
Before joining the Chiefs, Ouellet gained valuable experience with the San Diego Sabers of the USPHL Premier during the 2023–24 season.
“Playing with the San Diego Sabers was a great experience for my development,” Ouellet said. “It gave me the chance to adapt to junior hockey, develop my game and learn the work ethic it takes to succeed at this level. The coaches there really helped me prepare for the jump to the NCDC.”
With one season in the books and a clear vision for his future, Ouellet is ready to continue building his game, and proving he can make an impact every time he hits the ice.