Trent Excalibur Send Two Players and a Coach To Represent Canada at 2026 World Lacrosse Women’s Championship

Student-athletes Maddy Baxter, Maggie Cuddy and head coach Jocelyne Lemay of the Trent Excalibur women’s lacrosse program are representing Canada at the 2026 World Lacrosse Women’s Championship in Tokyo, Japan, from July 24 to Aug. 2.

Maddy Baxter. Photo courtesy of Trent University.

Lemay is serving as Team Canada’s manager.

“This is an incredible moment for our championship program," said Nathan McFadden, director of Athletics and Recreation at Trent University. "To have two student-athletes and our head coach representing Canada at this international tournament playing against the best teams and players in the world speaks to the level of high-performance players and standard of excellence within Trent Excalibur women's lacrosse. We're extremely proud of Maddy, Maggie, and Jocelyne. Their determination, passion, and professionalism have been instrumental in shaping our program, and we know they will represent both Canada and Trent with tremendous pride while serving as outstanding global ambassadors for our university.”

Entering her second year in the Nursing program at Trent, Baxter has helped Canada defend its gold-medal standard at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China, captured a silver medal at the 2022 World Championship after recording 15 points (nine goals, six assists) and previously represented Canada at the 2019 U19 World Cup. In 2025, she was named the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) Rookie of the Year after helping the team earn an OUA Gold Medal.

“It's taken a lot of dedication, training, and commitment. I am excited to see all that hard work come together and get back on the field with my teammates,” said Baxter. “My experience at Trent has played a big role in preparing me for this opportunity. Competing at a high level, learning from great coaches and being surrounded by supportive teammates have helped me grow both as an athlete and as a person. It's also pretty special to represent Team Canada alongside my head coach and a teammate from Trent. Having familiar faces by my side makes the experience even more special.”

Cuddy helped Team Canada reach the gold medal game at the World Lacrosse U20 Championship in Hong Kong before representing Canada again at the 2025 World Lacrosse Super Sixes. Cuddy will begin her first season with the Trent Excalibur this fall as she starts her Master of Health Care Management at Trent University.

Lemay helped Canada capture the 2019 World Championship title as a player and, after taking over the Excalibur program in 2024, she guided the team to the 2025 OUA Championship and has continued to establish the program as one of Canada's premier university lacrosse teams.

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Peterborough Jr. C Lakers Renew Rivalry With Whitby Tonight in Division Final

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Jr. C Lakers return to the floor Wednesday (July 8) as they open the Central Division Final against the rival Whitby Warriors at Healthy Planet Arena.

the Jr. C LAkers will begin their next round of playoff tonight (July 8) against a rival foe, the whitby warriors, at 8pm at the healthy planet arena (photo courtesy of jr c lakers, via Christine liu)

The Lakers advanced to the second round after sweeping the Huntsville Hawks in three games, winning by scores of 8-4, 8-7 and 10-5. Peterborough is chasing its third straight Meredith Cup championship.

Whitby also needed just three games to advance, sweeping the Clarington Gaels in its opening-round series.

The best-of-five Central Division Final begins Wednesday (July 8) at 8 pm at Healthy Planet Arena before shifting to Whitby for Game 2 on Sunday, July 12 at 2 pm.

The series returns to Healthy Planet Arena for Game 3 on Wednesday, July 15 at 8 pm.

If necessary, Game 4 will be played Friday, July 17 at 8 pm in Whitby, while a deciding Game 5 would be held Sunday, July 19 at 2 pm at Healthy Planet Arena.

The Lakers won two of their three regular season meetings with the Warriors this year, earning 12-6 and 10-9 victories at home before falling 6-5 in their lone trip to Whitby.

With both teams coming off first-round sweeps, the stage is set for another chapter in the rivalry between Peterborough and Whitby.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Five Counties Children’s Centre Family Leads the Charge For Little Lakers Night On July 16

To lead the charge for the fourth consecutive year of the Little Lakers Night with the Peterborough Lakers, the Hyde family is representing Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) for July 16 against the Oakville Rock.

(from left to right) Georgia Dueck, Peterborough Lakers Game Day Operations; Isabelle Hyde, 8; Maureen Hyde; Edward Hyde, 8; Elizabeth Hyde, 12 and Kassie Graham, FCCC Community Engagement Coordinator. Last year’s Little Lakers Night netted $16,128 to support children’s treatment services at Five Counties. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The fundraising game directs all proceeds to FCCC’s Building Abilities for Life campaign, which enables more kids and youth in the region to access life-changing treatment services when they need them. The night also shines a spotlight on children and families who have benefited from FCCC’s services.

The Hyde family has had three children (Isabelle, 8; Edward, 8 and Elizabeth, 12) who have benefited from FCCC.

“We’ve done speech and we’ve done occupational therapy,” said Maureen Hyde. “Edward and Isabelle didn’t speak until later on in life… Edward does occupational therapy for his tightness of his legs for his autism… Elizabeth didn’t walk so they straightened her legs as well.”

“My hip would go out whenever I’d walk so I needed therapy for that,” added Elizabeth.

@ptbo_canada The fourth-annual Little Lakers Night takes over the Peterborough Memorial Centre as the @ptbolakerslax take on the Oakville Rock on July 16! All proceeds from the fundraising night go towards Five Counties Children’s Centre! #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #peterboroughlakers ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

The Hyde’s will take part in the ceremonial pre-game ball drop.

“Little Lakers Night is one of those special events that brings our community together around a shared purpose — supporting children and families while celebrating the spirit of sport,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “For many of the kids and families we serve, this night creates unforgettable memories and opportunities to feel connected, included, and celebrated. We're deeply grateful to the Peterborough Lakers, our sponsors, and the community for helping make this event such a success year after year.”

“The partnership between the Lakers and Five Counties is something we're incredibly proud of,” says Pete Dalliday, Peterborough Lakers Director of Community Engagement and Partnerships. “Little Lakers Night is a chance for our team, our fans and our community to come together in support of local children and families. We’re excited to welcome Five Counties families and Lakers fans together for a fun-filled night that supports an incredible cause and showcases the positive impact we can make when we work together.”

Little Lakers Night kicks off with pre-game festivities starting at 7 pm. Activities and fundraising initiatives include face painting by donation, outdoor games, a ‘Pass the Bucket’ fundraiser and ‘Ball Toss for a Cause.’ During the game, a silent auction is being run with prizes such as Toronto Blue Jays tickets, a couples Float package, local gift cards, sports memorabilia and more. New this year is the debut of a new Lakers Jersey auction, with six available.

Tickets for Little Lakers Night on July 16 are available on the Five Counties website. Every $15 ticket purchased through Five Counties helps support children and families in the community.

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Petes Sign Goaltender Owen Nelson After Strong Showing at Development Camp

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Petes have added another piece to their future, signing American goaltender Owen Nelson to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.

peterborough petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke announced today that the team has signed goaltender owen nelson (photo courtesy of peterborough petes)

The 2007-born netminder earned the opportunity after attending the Petes' Development Camp as a free-agent invitee.

A native of Hudson, Wisconsin, Nelson spent last season with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL, appearing in 26 games while posting a 2.92 goals-against average and a .909 save percentage. He also appeared in one playoff game, recording a 1.61 goals-against average and a .955 save percentage.

Nelson also suited up for Cretin-Derham Hall in Minnesota during the 2024-25 high school season, where he earned 20 wins while finishing with a 1.71 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage.

"I'm very excited and honoured to sign with the Peterborough Petes," Nelson said. "I can't wait to get to Peterborough and get the chance to play for one of the most storied franchises in junior hockey and in front of an awesome fan base."

Petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke said Nelson made a strong impression during development camp, both on and off the ice.

Oke described the 6-foot-4 goaltender as a big, athletic player who moves well and is coming off a solid season in the USHL, adding the organization is excited to welcome him to Peterborough.

Nelson becomes the latest addition to the Petes as the club continues preparing for the 2026-27 OHL season.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Peterborough Lakers Ship Local Defenceman to Brooklin L.C. For Two Draft Picks

The Peterborough Lakers have traded defenceman Broedie Birkhof to the Brooklin L.C. for a fourth- and fifth-round draft pick in 2028, announced on Thursday morning.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Lakers.

Birkhof was originally traded to the Lakers along with his brother Dustyn and a 2026 third-round pick from the Kodiaks for Andrew Vradenburg, Cole Begley, Payton Tasse and 2026 second-round pick that originally belonged to Brampton in June of last year.

The Peterborough native previously played for the Cobourg Kodiaks and Six Nations Chiefs. He has also suited up for several Arena Lacrosse League teams, including the Peterborough Timbermen in their inaugural season.

Outside of lacrosse, he was the former strength and conditioning coach for the CFL’s Ottawa RedBlacks from 2004-05 and had the same role with the Peterborough Petes from May 2022 to March 2024.

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Trent University's 20th Annual President's Excalibur Golf Tournament Raises Record-Breaking $101,000 For Student-Athlete Scholarships

There was a record 24 teams swinging their clubs and raising $101,000 for Trent University student-athletes at the 20th annual President's Excalibur Golf Tournament at the Peterborough Golf and Country Club on Thursday afternoon.

Trent staff and students witness Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor (right) sink a putt prior to the shotgun start. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“At Trent, athletics is about much more than competition. It’s about developing leaders – students who build resilience, confidence, discipline and teamwork,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “The record-breaking support shows our student-athletes that they have supporters rooting for them, that their efforts are recognized and valued. The Green & White Athletic Financial Awards give students the chance to be and become—embracing who they are and fully realizing their potential without financial barriers getting in the way.”

Proceeds went towards the Green & White Athletic Financial Awards, which provide financial assistance to student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in sport, academic achievement and leadership within the Trent community.

During the 2025-26 varsity season, more than 70 student-athletes received a Green & White Athletic Financial Award, bringing the total number of recipients supported through the program to over 450. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Aly Saydam, Trent men’s volleyball student-athlete, said the awards helped him maintain an academic average above 80 per cent throughout his undergraduate degree which earned him recognition as a USPORT Academic All-Canadian. This year, he also earned a place on the President's Honour Roll for graduating with an average of 90 per cent or higher and received two of Trent Athletics' highest honours: the Bonnie M. Patterson Award and the Arthur Cup.

“No journey to success comes without challenges,” said Saydam. “Being a student-athlete is very challenging. You’re expected to train like a professional athlete, while still excelling at a full-time university education. A major part of my success is due to generous donors like those here today. Receiving a Green & White Athletic Financial Award during each year of study has allowed me to focus more of my time and energy towards volleyball and my studies.”

@ptbo_canada A record-breaking $101,000 was raised for student-athlete bursaries at Trent University’s 20th annual President’s Excalibur Golf Tournament! #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #trentuniversity ♬ Mario like action game 2 - Jun Takahashi

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Lakefield Unveils Veterans Memorial Crosswalk Marking 100 Years of Remembrance

By Scott Arnold

A new downtown crosswalk in Lakefield is honouring generations of service members while marking a major milestone for the local Royal Canadian Legion.

A Veterans Memorial Crosswalk in downtown Lakefield was unveilled over the weekend (photo courtesy of peterborough county)

Peterborough County, Selwyn Township and Royal Canadian Legion Branch 77 Lakefield have officially unveiled the Veterans Memorial Crosswalk in downtown Lakefield, creating a permanent tribute to local veterans and their service.

The unveiling took place on June 20, 2026, with veterans, community members and invited guests in attendance. The crosswalk also marks the 100th anniversary of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 77 Lakefield.

The ceremony was emceed by Legion President Lorna McDonald and included remarks from Selwyn Township Mayor Sherry Senis, MPP Dave Smith and Keith Knott of Curve Lake First Nation. The Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party and local veterans also took part in the event.

local veterans were on hand for the unveilling of the Veterans Memorial Crosswalk in downtown Lakefield (photo courtesy of peterborough county)

The project was completed through a partnership between the Lakefield Legion, Peterborough County and Selwyn Township. The County supported the road marking installation, while the Township assisted with the unveiling as part of the Legion’s centennial celebrations.

McDonald said the crosswalk had been a long-standing goal for the branch and was especially meaningful to complete during its 100th anniversary year. She said the tribute is intended to express gratitude to veterans who have served or are still serving.

During the ceremony, Second World War veterans from the Lakefield Legion were escorted as part of the formal proceedings, followed by other veterans and members of the Colour Party.

it was a special day in lakefield at the unveilling of the Veterans Memorial Crosswalk in downtown Lakefield (photo courtesy of peterborough county)

Officials say the crosswalk will serve as a year-round reminder of the service and sacrifice of veterans in the Lakefield area, while also highlighting the importance of local partnerships in supporting remembrance initiatives.

Peterborough County Warden Bonnie Clark said the crosswalk is a meaningful tribute that honours veterans while creating a lasting symbol for residents and visitors. Selwyn Township Mayor Sherry Senis said it offers an opportunity to reflect on sacrifices made in defence of freedom and to ensure that legacy is carried forward.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Lakers Bitten by Kodiaks in Cobourg on Sunday Night

By Scott Arnold

A five-goal run in the second period proved too much for the Peterborough Century 21 Lakers to overcome in a 13-9 loss to the Cobourg Kodiaks on Sunday night.

newest laker ryan lanchbury (7) had a strong debut for peterborough with two goals and two assists (photo courtesy of peterborough lakers, via anna taylor)

The Lakers jumped out to an early 2-0 lead on goals from Mike Robinson and Colton Armitage, but Cobourg responded and eventually took control of the game.

After the teams were tied 3-3, the Kodiaks scored five straight goals in the second period to build an 8-3 advantage. Peterborough battled back and cut the deficit to two goals late in the game, but Cobourg answered with the final two goals to secure the victory.

Ryan Lanchbury made his Lakers debut after being acquired from Oakville and led Peterborough with four points, scoring twice and adding two assists.

Robinson and Taite Cattoni each scored twice, while Rob Hellyer, Colton Armitage and Colton Armstrong added singles.

Deacan Knott started in goal before being relieved by Drew Hutchison in the second period. The two netminders combined for 51 saves.

The Lakers will look to rebound quickly when they return home Thursday night to host Brooklin at the Peterborough Memorial Centre for PRHC Night. The team will wear special jerseys for the occasion, which will be auctioned off after the game in support of the PRHC Foundation.

The loss puts Peterborough at 4-4 on the Major Series Lacrosse season, sitting at fifth place in the standings.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Peterborough Lakers U22 Girls Strike Gold Again in Whitby

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Lakers U22 girls team added another championship to its season over the weekend, winning the Whitby Girls Tournament.

the peterborough lakers u22 girls are champs once again after a nail biting win over the host whitby warriors

The Lakers opened the tournament Friday with a 9-3 victory over the Burlington Blaze before falling 12-7 to the host Whitby Warriors.

Peterborough bounced back on Saturday with a 6-0 win over the Gloucester Griffins, then defeated the Barrie Bombers 8-3 on Sunday to earn a spot in the championship game.

In the final, the Lakers got a chance to face Whitby again and made the most of the opportunity, edging the Warriors 8-7 to claim the tournament title.

The championship follows another successful weekend earlier this season, as the Lakers also captured the Barrie tournament title on the final weekend of May.

The championship roster included Stella Burke, Claire Chambers, Marielle Collins, Payton Crough, Claire Crowley, Abby Drinkwalter, Christie Evans, Chloe Fife, Natalie Foster, Aly Gemmiti, Addisyn Hartwick, Jocelyn Jessup, Avery Johnston, Avery Mann, Madeleine McInnes, Skylee Nicholson and Ashlea Whyte. Goaltenders Emma Fisher and Zoey Quinlan also helped lead the team to victory.

The team is coached by Nicci Johnston, with assistant coaches Lexie Kinmond, Kelsey McWilliams and Hayley Bartlett. Jaelyn Terrion serves as the team's trainer.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Petes Add 14 More Prospects to Complete 2026 OHL Priority Selection

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Petes rounded out their 2026 draft class Saturday, selecting 14 players on the second day of the OHL Priority Selection.

petes third round pick mason quinn on the draft stage with general manager and vice president of operations mike oke, team scouts, and ohl commissioner bryan crawford (photo courtesy of peterborough petes, via charles warburton)

After choosing Vaughan Kings forward Landon Roulston in the first round Friday night, the Petes continued adding to their prospect pool with players from Ontario and the United States.

The club's first pick of the day came in the third round when Peterborough selected Toronto Marlboros right winger Mason Quinn 59th overall.

Other selections included:

• Round 5, Pick 94: Colton Lapierre (D), Toronto Red Wings U16

• Round 6, Pick 119: Zidane Jasey (G), Toronto Jr. Canadiens U16

• Round 7, Pick 134: Marco Nichele (D), Ottawa Jr. 67's U16

• Round 7, Pick 136: Brady Cunningham (D), Lincoln Stars

• Round 8, Pick 145: Dylan Delgado (RW), Detroit HoneyBaked 15s

• Round 8, Pick 154: Ty Civello (LW), Don Mills Flyers U16

• Round 9, Pick 174: Nicholas Hahn (D), Team Wisconsin 15s

• Round 10, Pick 194: Nathan Slack (RW), Don Mills Flyers U16

• Round 11, Pick 214: Andrew Vaduva (G), Burlington Eagles U16

• Round 12, Pick 234: Hudson Clayton (D), Burlington Eagles U16

• Round 13, Pick 254: Quinn Creally (RW), Upper Canada Cyclones U16

• Round 14, Pick 274: Evan Vukelic (C), Shattuck-St. Mary's Sabres 15s

• Round 15, Pick 294: Aiden Plooy (D), Upper Canada Cyclones U16

petes fifth round pick colton lapierre with mike oke (photo courtesy of peterborough petes, via charles warburton)

Petes General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke said the organization was pleased with the players selected over the two-day draft, noting they demonstrated the skill, character and competitiveness the club looks for in prospective players.

mike oke along with petes eighth round pick ty civello (photo courtesy of peterborough petes, via charles warburton)

The 14 day-two selections join first-round pick Landon Roulston as part of Peterborough's 2026 draft class. Details for the club's annual development camp are expected to be announced in the coming week.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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