Fern St. Onge spent 30+ years (1964-1996) involved in playing, coaching or managing every level of Collingwood hockey. During this time, he was instrumental in building the lives, the livelihoods and character of many a player (Collingwood Minor Hockey, Junior A & C, Intermediate A and Senior A) who walked through the doors of the Eddie Bush Arena.

Fern was recruited by fellow HOF member Dr. Don Paul in 1964 to play for the Collingwood Shipbuilders after 2 years playing with the OHA Jr. A Peterborough Petes under the renowned coach Scotty Bowman.

In 1973, Fern volunteered to coach the Collingwood Juvenile Lions. A team desperately looking for a coach to ice a team. Without any previous coaching experience, Fern fell back on his observations from the excellent coaching he received as a player. His believe that a “team” outweighs the sum of the parts was introduced and reinforced to an eclectic mix of challenging 17-18 year olds throughout the season. It worked . . . as the Juveniles captured the OHA Championship after 5 challenging play-off rounds. After 20 years of playing/coaching in the Intermediate, coaching Senior and Junior C, Fern retired from Sr. hockey. There was, however, a desire to share his knowledge to youngsters, many of who couldn’t skate. Not surprisingly, Fern returned to the arena in 1988 to coach Tyke and Novice House League teams to emphasize the fun and wonder of the hockey.

In 1999, Fern was presented with the 3M Coaching Recognition Reward from the CMHA. Upon Fern’s nomination, the Hall of Fame received heartfelt recommendations from players, fellow coaches and parents that retold stories of his friendly and enthusiastic manner that built self-esteem and knowledge for hockey techniques.

Away from the ice, Fern served on the Collingwood Parks, Recreation and Culture Board from 1988-1990.

On Saturday, May 14, 2022, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes Fern St. Onge as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.