Two Crestwood Students Receive Peterborough Petes Education Fund Scholarships

After being selected by their coaches, Colby Kekki and Olivia Lewington have been awarded the Peterborough Petes Education Fund scholarships, announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

“The Peterborough Petes Education fund was established by former Petes Board of Director’s member Pat Casey in the late 1970’s,” said Rod McGillis, Peterborough Petes Vice President. “We are proud to continue to give out these scholarships each year to deserving athletes and students. Pat always knew that education was a critical part of the Peterborough Petes program and his work has allowed for these scholarships to continue to current students and athletes.”

Kekki, a defenceman from Peterborough, attends Crestwood Secondary School and featured for the U18 AAA Petes this season, where he was coached by Scott Roche.

“Being picked for this award means a lot to me, especially being chosen by my coaches,” said Kekki. “I’m really thankful to the Petes organization for all the support this year. Playing for the U18 Petes was a great experience and helped me grow a lot both on and off the ice. I’m honoured to receive this award and grateful for everyone who was part of the season.”  

“Colby Kekki has been an outstanding member of our U18 AAA Petes hockey program over the past two seasons,” said Roche. “He played a key role on our blueline, regularly logging heavy minutes in critical situations. Beyond his play on the ice, Colby was a quiet leader and respected teammate. One of the most impressive examples of his commitment and character is that Colby never missed a single game during his two years with our organization. Most importantly, Colby is an exceptional young man who represents our program with class and humility.”

Lewington, a centre from Peterborough, also attends Crestwood Secondary School and played for the U18 AA IceKats this season, where she was coached by Chris Moher.

“Thank you so much to the Peterborough Petes organization for this generous award,” exclaimed Lewington. “I am truly honoured! I would also like to thank the Peterborough IceKats and my coach Chris Moher. I played for the IceKats for 11 years and some of my best memories have been spent on the ice with my teammates and coaches. Hockey is more than a sport, it has helped me make friends and develop skills off the ice! I am looking forward to going to university in the fall to study nursing at Trent University. Hockey will always be a part of my life and I hope to give back to the Peterborough hockey community in the years to come.” 

“Olivia was an exceptional captain for the U18 AA IceKats during her final season of minor hockey in Peterborough,” said Moher. “A proud IceKat for many years, she consistently demonstrated a selfless, team first attitude and led by example both on and off the ice. Her competitive spirit, dedication and unwavering consistency earned the respect of her teammates and coaches alike, making her a deserving recipient of this award.”

The Peterborough Petes Education Fund also gives our six $500.00 scholarships to each local high school (St. Peter, TASS, Adam Scott, Kenner, Crestwood and Holy Cross) to be presented to a graduating student who has improved themselves through their hard work during their high school years.

“The Peterborough Petes would also like to thank the Petes AAA minor hockey organization for running the 50/50 at Peterborough Petes home games and for their support of the Petes,” said McGillis.

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TASSS Student Named Recipient of H.O.P.E. Bursary 2026 Steve Montador Bursary

Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School (TASSS) student Clare Hutchinson has been named the recipient of Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation’s (GPHSF) and Helping Others Participate Equally’s (HOPE) 2026 Steve Montador Bursary, announced on Tuesday.

(From left to right) Vince Bierworth, GPHSF executive director; Kristine McCracken, TASSS Coach and teacher; Clare Hutchinson, TASSS student and Mike Keating of H.O.P.E. Photo courtesy of Susan Owen and GPHSF.

The H.O.P.E. Bursary, in honour of Steve Montador, was established to support students transitioning from high school to college/university who suffer the long-term effects of a sports-related concussion and require a reduced academic course load due to injury.

Over the past three years, Hutchinson has suffered concussions while playing several sports. This includes wrestling, hockey and rugby. These concussions have effectively ended her ability to play contact sports. She continues to be physically active, playing several non-contact sports and coaching Rugby.

“Through it all, she has demonstrated a strong work ethic, resiliency and leadership, both on and off the field,” said Kristing McCraken, TASSS coach and teacher. “She is resilient and adaptable; if she couldn’t be on the field, she would support in another way. That’s Clare, a true leader that supports her team in whatever capacity she can.”

Hutchinson plans to attend Georgian College to become a Paramedic in the fall.

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Night of Champions Celebration Caps Off Memorable Season for U11AA Peterborough Petes

By Scott Arnold

The U11AA Peterborough Petes are still celebrating a championship season after taking part in a special Night of Champions event at the Hockey Hall of Fame following their Red Hats victory earlier this year.

U11AA Peterborough petes at jays game (Photo courtesy of hayley vogler)

The team and their families travelled to Toronto on Saturday for an after-hours celebration at the Hockey Hall of Fame, marking their successful season and “Red Hats” Ontario championship win from March.

U11AA Peterborough petes winning ontario championship in march (Photo courtesy of hayley vogler)

U11AA Peterborough petes at hockey hall of fame (Photo courtesy of hayley vogler)

U11AA Peterborough petes at hockey hall of fame (Photo courtesy of hayley vogler)

Before heading to the Hall of Fame, the group also took in a Toronto Blue Jays game, making it a full day of celebration for players, coaches and families. Approximately 60 people attended the trip.

U11AA Peterborough petes at jays game (Photo courtesy of hayley vogler)

U11AA Peterborough petes at jays game (Photo courtesy of hayley vogler)

The season-ending celebration also came with another reason for excitement as all 17 players from this year's U11AA squad are expected to return together next season at the U12AA level.

The championship roster featured Jack Coveney, Jantzen Taylor, Ronan Goselin, Kaden Grills, Luke Lipscombe, Lucy Christie, Jonathan Dewhurst, Jonah Vogler, Charlie Clements, Jackson Faught, Gavin Thomas, Mason Smith, Oscar Selby, Case Hedges, Nash Bloomfield, Brandon Devereaux and Nash Prentice.

Behind the bench, Bobby Christie served as head coach with assistant coaches Jeremy Heffernan, Mark Prentice and Steve Thomas. Jeff Taylor was the team's trainer, while Hayley Vogler served as manager.

With the entire roster returning next season, the Petes will now look to build on a year that ended with a championship and one memorable celebration to match.

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

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Peterborough Power Strike Gold at 2026 Ontario Cup

By Scott Arnold

A championship performance and another trip to the podium made for a successful weekend for Peterborough Power basketball teams at the 2026 Ontario Cup.

u16 peterborough power gold medal winning team (photo via facebook @pybabasketball)

The U16 Peterborough Power boys are bringing home gold after defeating Cambridge 69-61 in the championship game. The final was played at Glenview Park in Cambridge as part of the tournament hosted by the KW Vipers.

The team celebrated the title after putting together a strong tournament run, with the organization praising the players' grit, hustle and determination from the opening tip to the final buzzer.

The championship effort also drew recognition for the coaching staff, with thanks extended for their leadership and commitment to developing athletes both on and off the court. Families and supporters were also credited for helping fuel the team's run.

Peterborough nearly added a second gold medal to the weekend.

The U15 Peterborough Power squad earned silver after a hard-fought battle in the championship game, falling 72-62 to Burloak Elite James of Burlington.

u15 peterborough power silver medalists (photo via facebook @pybabasketball)

With gold and silver brought back to the city, the weekend delivered another strong showing for the Peterborough Youth Basketball Association.

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

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Lacrosse Day for Our Champions Bringing Free Turf Time, Fundraising and Stories From Legends

By Scott Arnold

Young lacrosse players will have a chance to hit the turf for free while supporting a pair of local causes during a special event at the Peterborough Memorial Centre this weekend.

Dylan hawken, longtime laker volunteer (photo by Scott arnold)

Boro Boys Seasonal Lacrosse is inviting players from the Peterborough Minor Lacrosse Association to take part in a free hour of lacrosse on Saturday, May 30 as part of Lacrosse Day for Our Champions 2.

Players are asked to bring a helmet, gloves and a stick. Organizers have space for 25 players per session with time slots running from 9 am to 1 pm. The 9 am session has already filled, while spots remain available at 10 am, 11 am and noon on a first come, first served basis.

Although participation is free, organizers are encouraging donations to Kawartha Food Share or contributions to the fundraiser supporting Special Olympics Peterborough and Unified Champion Schools.

Participants who attend will receive a swag bag and a gold medal. Activities in the Memorial Centre lobby will also include a bake sale, raffle prizes and silent auction items.

The day will continue with a Legends and Alumni lacrosse game at 4:30 pm before wrapping up with Storytime by the Legends at Sticks Sports Pub at 7 pm.

The evening event will feature several well-known names from Peterborough lacrosse history, with stories and memories centred around decades of championship success.

Organizers say the day is all about champions supporting champions while raising funds and celebrating the local lacrosse community.

Anyone looking to get involved can contact Ernie Ellement by email at mr_ellement@hotmail.com or at 705-927-2370

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

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Peterborough Lakers Drop Home Opener to Defending Mann Cup Champion Six Nations Chiefs

The Peterborough Lakers could not repeat last year’s home opener result and fell to the defending Mann Cup champion Six Nations Chiefs, 11-6, at the Peterborough Memorial Centre on Thursday night.

Photo courtesy of Christine Liu and the Peterborough Lakers.

Davin Bomberry opened the scoring just 67 seconds in for the Chiefs to record the first goal of the season. Nearly six minutes later, Dylan Hutchinson tied the game for the Lakers. Six Nations went on a four-goal run after the Peterborough score while Chiefs goalie Doug Jamieson clamped things down for a 5-1 first-period score.

The visitors added to their run with a pair of Chris Cloutier goals and the Lakers found themselves in a 7-1 hole. Rob Hellyer scored for the Lakers to try and build momentum for the team but Six Nations responded nearly four minutes later. Peterborough took advantage of some disciplinary issues from the Chiefs and scored two-straight power play goals thanks to Justin Sykes and Hellyer to make it 8-4 going into the final frame.

The Chiefs opened another period with a run, this time with three goals, including a shorthanded and power play score. Carter Page and Matt Gilray scored later for the Lakers, but it was too little too late, and the defending champs left Peterborough with an 11-6 victory to start the season.

The win puts the Chiefs at a 2-0 record after they shut out Owen Sound 12-0 on Monday, with nearly their entire roster in place. The Lakers were shorthanded, missing several regulars due to prior commitments and injury. 

“Unfortunately, it’s May 21st. Our roster is healing from the winter,” said Mike Hasen, Lakers head coach. “They’re going to be here and it’s going to be a lot better.”

The loss put the Lakers at a 0-1 record and they look to rebound against the Brampton Excelsiors, who come to town this Thursday night.

“(We) competed against the best team in Canada,” explained Hasen. “There were a lot of good pieces on the floor here tonight. Scoreboard-wise, we kind of poo-pooed it a little bit but when our group really gets here, we’ll start clicking and you’ll see what these guys are going to do for us.”

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Ontario Government Extends Restaurant and Bar Alcohol Sales to 4 a.m. For FIFA World Cup™

The Ontario government has permitted licensed restaurants and bars to extend alcohol sales and service across the province until 4 a.m. during the FIFA World Cup 2026™ from June 11 to July 19.

Crook & Coffer co-owner John Clarke getting the Irish spirit on early pouring green beer for the DBIA’s inaugural “Catch the Leprechauns” free scavenger hunt in 2023. Photo by David Tuan Bu

“Fans can enjoy the games no matter what time they're happening,” said Doug Ford, Ontario Premier. “So make sure to gather, watch and celebrate one of the greatest sporting events in the world and let's all cheer Team Canada.”

“This summer, fans visiting from around the world will gather in Toronto to celebrate world-class sport,” said Doug Downey, Attorney General. “Allowing restaurants and bars to stay open later means that fans can fully experience the energy, excitement and atmosphere of the tournament while supporting jobs, strengthening local businesses and driving economic growth across Ontario.”

This year’s tournament is the first to feature 48 teams playing games across three countries, including Canada. Toronto will host six games at Toronto Stadium. Vancouver will also host games, alongside 14 additional host cities in the United States and Mexico, making it the largest FIFA World Cup 2026™ in history.

“Extending last call during the FIFA World Cup 2026™ will help Ontario deliver a safe, vibrant and welcoming experience for fans from around the world,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As Ontario welcomes visitors for this global event, this measure will give people more time to enjoy our world-class bars and restaurants while supporting the province’s tourism sector.”

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Jr A Lakers Open Season With Road Win Behind New Faces and Big Nights

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Jr. A Lakers started the 2026 season with a win and got plenty of production from newcomers and returning talent in a 9-7 victory over the Toronto Beaches on the road Thursday night.

Photo via instagram @twistedheads_lax

Rookie goaltender Logan Pyke made his first Junior A start a memorable one, earning his first career win between the pipes.

Offensively, the Lakers spread the scoring around while piling up points across the lineup. Matthew Drimmie led the playmaking effort with seven assists.

Nate Sage wasted little time making an impact after returning to Peterborough following his first NCAA season with the North Carolina Tar Heels. Sage finished with three goals and two assists in a five-point night.

Zachary McLean and Hayden Addison each recorded two goals and an assist. Nick Fournier added a goal and an assist while Jake Earl chipped in three helpers. Mason Cree found the back of the net, and Ryder Evans and Robby White each picked up an assist.

The Lakers won't have much time to celebrate.

Peterborough is right back in action tonight for its home opener against the Elora Hawks at the Peterborough Memorial Centre. The Hawks feature Peterborough natives DJ Crough and Jeremiah Wade. Opening faceoff is set for 8 pm.

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

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Peterborough Lakers Introduce Shuttle Trolley to Transport Fans to Select Home Games; Starts On Thursday's Home Opener

The Peterborough Lakers have introduced a trolley on select home games this season to transport fans to and from the game, starting with the Home Opener this Thursday against the Six Nations Chiefs.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Lakers.

Sponsored exclusively on opening night by 180 Hunter Bar & Restaurant, the trolley will pick up fans starting at 6:45 p.m. for transport to the Memorial Centre, with additional pickups leading up to game time.

There is no cost to fans to ride the Trolley.

The Trolley will return fans downtown approximately 15 minutes after the game.

The Lakers schedule is as follows:

• May 21 vs. Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• May 28 vs. Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• May 30 at Owen Sound North Stars at 4 p.m.

• June 1 at Oakville Rock at 7:30 p.m.

• June 4 vs. Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 10 at Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 18 at Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• June 21 at Cobourg Kodiaks at 6 p.m.

• June 25 vs. Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 29 at Oakville Rock at 7:30 p.m.

• July 2 vs. Cobourg Kodiaks at 8 p.m.

• July 7 at Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• July 9 vs. Owen Sound North Stars at 8 p.m.

• July 16 vs. Oakville Rock at 8 p.m.

• July 23 vs. Cobourg Kodiaks at 8 p.m.

• July 24 at Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• July 28 at Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• July 30 vs Owen Sound North Stars at 8 p.m.

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Peterborough Lakers Introduce New Fundraising Intermission Activity For 2026 Season

The Peterborough Lakers have introduced ‘Toss For a Cause’ as a new fundraising intermission activity for fans of all ages.  

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Lakers.

The fundraiser partners with local teams and groups to raise money for their organizations. Proceeds from the May 21st home opener will support Kawartha Fury Lacrosse.

Fans can purchase three balls for $5.00 from one of three locations throughout the arena and are encouraged to toss them on the floor at the second intermission. The closest ball to the centre dot wins a prize. 

Balls can be purchased at the Front Lobby, East Lobby or Club Lounge.

The Lakers are looking for teams and groups interested in participating and raising funds for their group. Contact Pete Dalliday petedalliday@gmail.com.

The Lakers schedule is as follows:

• May 21 vs. Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• May 28 vs. Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• May 30 at Owen Sound North Stars at 4 p.m.

• June 1 at Oakville Rock at 7:30 p.m.

• June 4 vs. Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 10 at Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 18 at Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• June 21 at Cobourg Kodiaks at 6 p.m.

• June 25 vs. Brooklin LC at 8 p.m.

• June 29 at Oakville Rock at 7:30 p.m.

• July 2 vs. Cobourg Kodiaks at 8 p.m.

• July 7 at Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• July 9 vs. Owen Sound North Stars at 8 p.m.

• July 16 vs. Oakville Rock at 8 p.m.

• July 23 vs. Cobourg Kodiaks at 8 p.m.

• July 24 at Brampton Excelsiors at 8 p.m.

• July 28 at Six Nations Chiefs at 8 p.m.

• July 30 vs Owen Sound North Stars at 8 p.m.

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