Playing Career
Elijah Roberts is a former elite hockey player whose career is marked by outstanding achievements and dedication to the sport. Elijah spent 4 years with the prestigious Toronto Marlboros, winning two OHL Cups with the 1999 and 1998 Marlies teams. His exceptional performance led to him being drafted 32nd overall by the Kitchener Rangers in the 2015 OHL Draft. During his rookie season with the Rangers, Elijah was honoured with the Michael Pappert Memorial Trophy as the team’s 2016 Rookie of the Year.
While playing with the Rangers, Elijah had the privilege of representing his country at the 2015 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, where he won gold as part of Team Canada White. The following summer, he was selected to Team Canada for the U-18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Cup, held in Breclav, Czech Republic, and Bratislava, Slovakia.
In 2017, Elijah expanded his international experience by playing for Team Jamaica, showcasing his skills on a global stage and contributing to the growing presence of hockey in the Caribbean. After two years in Kitchener, Elijah was traded to the Niagara IceDogs, where he completed his OHL career. During his time with the IceDogs, he embraced a leadership role as an assistant captain, demonstrating his ability to inspire and guide his teammates. Over his OHL career, Elijah tallied 108 points in 294 games and contributed 9 points in 31 playoff games.
Following his OHL career, Elijah committed to Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), where he played 67 games over three seasons and recorded 46 points. In three playoff appearances, he competed in 16 games, recording 9 points and playing a key role in the team’s success in capturing bronze and silver medals. Elijah also made two appearances in the U CUP, showcasing his abilities on the national stage. Elijah’s playing career reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership, and a profound understanding of the game. Today, he brings this wealth of experience into his coaching and mentorship roles, inspiring the next generation of athletes through Aura High Performance.
Beyond the Rink
Elijah Roberts, a 26-year-old from Brampton, Ontario, has always had a passion for sports, business, and helping others. During his time in the OHL, Elijah was deeply involved in volunteer work, frequently visiting hospitals, speaking at schools, and engaging with the community. This commitment to giving back laid the foundation for his future endeavors. While playing in Niagara, Elijah co-founded the “Soul on Ice Podcast” alongside Akil Thomas and Kwame Mason. The podcast was created to engage with fans, inspire the next generation of athletes, and promote diversity and inclusion in hockey. Through this platform, Elijah has amplified important conversations about representation in sports and has shared his experiences as a Black hockey player.
Elijah’s advocacy extends beyond the podcast. He has participated in numerous interviews focused on diversity in hockey, using his voice to challenge barriers and inspire change within the sport. Currently, Elijah is in his final year of the Child and Youth Care program at Toronto Metropolitan University. His studies, combined with his leadership experience as an assistant captain in both Niagara and TMU, have equipped him with the skills to develop, understand, and work with young athletes. This unique blend of academic knowledge and practical experience allows Elijah to connect with athletes on a personal level, helping them grow both on and off the ice.
During his second season at TMU, Elijah welcomed his first child, Kylo Roberts. Balancing school, hockey, and fatherhood taught him invaluable lessons about time management and perseverance. In November 2024, Elijah and his family grew once more with the arrival of his second child, Kane Roberts. Becoming a father has profoundly changed Elijah’s perspective on life and serves as his greatest motivation to be the best version of himself. Elijah’s journey beyond the rink reflects his dedication to fostering positive change, mentoring the next generation, and creating inclusive spaces where athletes can thrive.
Coaching and Mentorship
After a 20-year playing career, Elijah Roberts has shifted his focus to coaching and player development. Currently, Elijah is in his first year of coaching as an Assistant Coach for the Waterloo Siskins, where he primarily works with the defense. Elijah has had the honor of learning from some of hockey’s most elite coaches and figures, including Wendel Clark, Jim Hughes, Keith Tkachuk, Mike Van Ryn, Scott Walker, Mitch Love, Paul McFarland, and more. “I try to focus on the best attributes from each coach and incorporate them into my own coaching style,” Elijah says.
As a co-founder and lead development coach with Aura High Performance, Elijah is committed to providing mentorship, elite skills training, and a professional, safe learning environment. His programs are designed to help athletes transition from where they are to where they want to go, emphasizing not only technical skills but also personal growth and confidence. Through his dedication to coaching and mentorship, Elijah Roberts continues to inspire and guide the next generation of hockey players, building a legacy that extends far beyond the rink.