Muskegon Lumberjacks forward Zaac Charbonneau (Gatineau, Quebec) has been selected to represent Team Canada-Red at the 2026 World Under-17 Challenge, scheduled for November 1–7 at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex in Oakville, Ontario.
 
 
"The Maple Leaf is really something special. A few years back, my uncle (Danny Briere) got to wear it, and now getting to wear that jersey in front of my family and everyone else is going to be unbelievable." Said Charbonneau.
 
Charbonneau's selection adds to the Lumberjacks' growing history of international representation at the prestigious annual tournament. Over the past five editions of the World Under-17 Challenge, nine Lumberjacks players have represented their respective countries, including the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Czechia.
 
"This is really the first phase of getting to look at high-caliber NHL players, so for Zaac to be picked is pretty special," shared Lumberjacks Head Coach Colten St. Clair. "Not only will he get to represent his country, but also the Lumberjacks while he's there." St. Clair finished.
 
With his selection, Charbonneau will represent both the Lumberjacks and the United States Hockey League (USHL) on the international stage. He is the only USHL skater named to the country's 44-player selection pool, highlighting his accomplishment and the continued development of talent in Muskegon.
 
"My start to the year in Muskegon has been huge. I know they (Hockey Canada) were looking at the start of the season and how players were doing. The confidence I got from my coaches and teammates, and the ice time, has really made a difference," Charbonneau finished.
 
The Lumberjacks congratulate Zaac on his selection to Team Canada-Red and wish him the best of luck at the 2026 World Under-17 Challenge.
 
### (10/14/26)
 
About the Muskegon Lumberjacks
The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud and dedicated members of the United States Hockey League (USHL), the nation's only Tier I junior hockey league and leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. The club's goal is to create an environment where student-athletes develop into successful young men, both on and off the ice. This includes playing the game the right way while maintaining academic excellence in the classroom and staying actively involved in the West Michigan community. The organization is committed to providing high-quality, affordable, and top-notch family entertainment while serving as positive role models for the youth and local community.