NHL Alumni Take to the Peterborough Memorial Centre Ice For Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario

Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators alumni are hitting the Peterborough Memorial Centre ice for ‘Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario,’ on Nov. 6 in support of Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation (GPHSF).

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The alumni teams both feature former NHL players, some of whom would have competed in the classic playoff games in the early 2000s that started the rivalry. 

“We are really excited to be hosting Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario, with the Peterborough Memorial Centre,” said Vince Bierworth, GPHSF executive director. “Ottawa and Toronto were a huge playoff rivalry in the early-2000’s. We still see the rivalry in regular-season games and the playoffs today. Most recently in the playoffs in the spring of 2025. It is a great rivalry with a passionate fan base. We are excited to host the Toronto and Ottawa fans at Peterborough Memorial Centre.  Proceeds from the event will support our concussion fund. This fund helps to provide education and awareness for youth sport concussion through funding Peterborough Athletics Concussion Awareness (PACA) and providing the HOPE Bursary in Honour of Steve Montador.”

“Rivalry Night: The Battle of Ontario is going to be an exciting evening for hockey fans and a wonderful opportunity to support an important cause in our community,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Bringing the Toronto Maple Leafs Alumni and Ottawa Senators Alumni to the Peterborough Memorial Centre will showcase the passion and excitement of this historic rivalry while helping raise funds for concussion education and awareness initiatives that support local youth and families. I encourage residents and visitors alike to come out, enjoy a great night of hockey and support the Greater Peterborough Health Services Foundation.”

A full roster for each team will be announced closer to the event.

Tickets go on sale Friday at 10 a.m. online, in person at the PMC Box Office or by phone at 705-743-3561. Tickets start at just $30 each, with a limited number of VIP upgrade tickets available, which include a pre-game meet-and-greet with either the Ottawa Senators or the Toronto Maple Leafs.

PMC Scoop and GPHSF mailing list members have early access to tickets with a pre-sale on Wednesday and Thursday.

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Petes Forward Adam Novotný Takes Next Step at NHL Combine

By Scott Arnold

One of the top prospects for the 2026 NHL Draft is spending this week in Buffalo as Peterborough Petes forward Adam Novotný attends the NHL Scouting Combine.

PEterborough petes forward adam Novotný looking to impress at nhl combine in buffalo (photo courtesy of peterborough petes)

The 18-year-old Petes forward is among 90 players invited to the 2026 NHL Scouting Combine, which runs from June 1-6 at KeyBank Center and LECOM HarborCenter in Buffalo, New York.

The annual event gives all 32 NHL teams a chance to meet with draft-eligible prospects through interviews, medical evaluations and fitness testing ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26 and 27.

Novotný is one of 20 players from the Ontario Hockey League invited to this year's combine and arrives in Buffalo after a strong season in Peterborough.

The native of Czechia recorded 34 goals and 31 assists for 65 points in 58 games with the Petes during the 2025-26 regular season. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound forward also added 22 penalty minutes.

The combine is considered the final major showcase before the NHL Draft, giving teams an opportunity to learn more about many of the game's top young players both on and off the ice.

Novotný heads into the week ranked 14th among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, putting him firmly in the conversation as one of the top prospects available later this month.

A total of 56 forwards, 29 defencemen and five goaltenders will take part in the combine as players look to make one final impression before hearing their names called on draft day.

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

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Five Counties Children’s Centre Receives $30,000 Donation From Kawartha Tri‑Sport Towards Essential Services

After a three-day fundraising event in Ennismore, Kawartha Tri‑Sport Tournament organizers donated $30,000 to Five Counties Children’s Centre (FCCC) towards its essential services, announced on Monday.

Christina Scott, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizer (right) with Kassie Graham, FCCC’s Community Engagement Coordinator (right) with the donation of $30,000. Photo courtesy of FCCC.

These services include speech therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and specialized programs that build abilities for life.

The funds are part of the $100,000 that was raised overall at the most recent Kawartha Tri-Sport Tournament – the 10th anniversary of the event that features baseball, hockey and golf.

“We are incredibly grateful to Kawartha Tri‑Sport and everyone who took part in this year’s tournament,” said Scott Pepin, FCCC CEO. “This generous contribution will directly support children and youth in our community, helping them access the therapy services they need to grow, learn, and thrive. We’re honoured to be part of an event that brings people together to make such a meaningful difference.”

Along with Five Counties, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizers donated funds to Down Syndrome Canada and to local families in need of support.

“We are so proud to give back to the community that has given so much to us and our families,” says Christina Scott, Kawartha Tri-Sport organizer. “Supporting Five Counties is just one small way we can make a difference together. Kawartha Tri-Sport is so grateful to be part of something that makes a positive impact.”

The annual Kawartha Tri‑Sport tournament was launched in 2016. It brings together athletes, volunteers, and supporters for a weekend of friendly competition and community spirit. Since its inception, the Kawartha Tri-Sport event has raised more than $400,000 for local charities.

Scott says charities supported by Tri-Sport often have a personal connection to the organizers. “We are so honoured to support organizations that make a difference in people’s lives,” said Scott. “We are also still overwhelmed by what’s been achieved. It all comes down to the people that support our mission every year and the generosity of our community, businesses, participants, family and friends.”                                             

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Step Back in Time With Trent Valley Archives' Biggest Tour Season Yet

By Scott Arnold

From true crime tales and ghost walks to local music history and wartime Peterborough, there's something for every history lover in the 2026 tour lineup.

elwood jones leads participants on a trent valley archives walking tour last month
(photo via instagram @trentvalleyarchives)

History is coming to life across Peterborough once again.

Trent Valley Archives has unveiled its full 2026 local history tour season, featuring 18 walking tours through Downtown Peterborough, Ashburnham, and Little Lake Cemetery. The tours begin this month and continue through November, offering plenty of opportunities to discover stories from the city's past.

Whether you're fascinated by true crime, curious about the people who helped build Peterborough, or enjoy a spooky lantern-lit evening, this year's schedule has a little bit of everything.

A brand-new downtown tour is joining the lineup this year.

New for 2026 is "Mainstreet Music: Downtown Peterborough's Iconic Music Venues." The tour traces the history of the city's live music scene from the 1950s to today, highlighting the venues that helped shape generations of local musicians. Participants may even get the chance to step inside some of the venues that continue to support live music today.

Trent Valley Archives also offers private tours for groups of 15 to 25 people, making them a great option for clubs, organizations, or groups looking for a unique local experience.

To help people plan their outings, Trent Valley Archives has also released its 2026 tour rack card. The free guide features a photograph of local artist George Elliott signing his Market Hall sketch on the front and includes details on every downtown walking tour, Little Lake Cemetery tour, and ghost walk scheduled this year.

2026 tour cards are being provided this year by trent valley archives
(photo via instagram @trentvalley archives)

Copies can be picked up at locations including Market Hall Performing Arts Centre, Showplace, the Art Gallery of Peterborough, the Peterborough and the Kawarthas Chamber of Commerce, Peterborough Public Library, Holiday Inn, and other locations throughout Peterborough and Peterborough County.

The free guide features a photograph of local artist George Elliott signing his Market Hall
(photo via instagram @trentvalleyarchives)

The back of the rack card lists every tour in chronological order, along with dates, times, locations, and information on purchasing tickets.

For those unable to pick up a copy, the complete 2026 tour schedule and descriptions of each tour are also available on the Trent Valley Archives website.

With tours running right through November, there will be plenty of chances to discover a new story, revisit a familiar neighbourhood, and see Peterborough's history from a different perspective.

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

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Perfect Weekend Ends With Tournament Title for Peterborough Lakers U22 Girls

By Scott Arnold

Five games, five wins and a championship trophy made for a memorable weekend for the Peterborough Lakers U22 girls.

Peterborough Lakers u22 girls went undefeated over the weekend (photo courtesy of dion gemmiti)

The Lakers put together a perfect 5-0 record to capture the Barrie Anthony Acchione Memorial Classic championship over the weekend.

Peterborough opened the tournament with an impressive 8-1 victory over the Burlington Blaze before defeating the Orangeville Northmen 5-1. The Lakers continued their strong run with a 7-5 win over the Wallaceburg Griffins and followed it up with another 7-5 victory over the host Barrie Bombers to secure a spot in the gold medal game.

Waiting for them in the championship final was Burlington. This time, the Blaze provided a much tougher test, but the Lakers found a way to get the job done, earning a 5-4 victory to complete the undefeated tournament run and bring home the title.

The championship was the result of a full team effort throughout the weekend from players 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.

The Lakers also received strong play between the pipes from goaltenders Emma Fisher and Zoey Quinlan.

Behind the bench, the team was led by head coach Nicci Johnston, along with assistant coaches Lexie Kinmond, Kelsey McWilliams and Hayley Bartlett. Jaelyn Terrion served as the team's trainer.

After winning all five games and overcoming a one-goal battle in the final, the Peterborough Lakers U22 girls returned home with a tournament championship and plenty of momentum heading into the rest of their season.

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

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Champions Celebrate Champions During Special Day of Lacrosse in Peterborough

By Scott Arnold

A day filled with lacrosse, laughter, and community support brought generations of Peterborough champions together while raising funds for several local causes.

organizer ernie ellement posing with the athletes (photo courtesy of cindy wilson)

The Peterborough Memorial Centre was buzzing with activity during Lacrosse Day for Our Champions, a community event that celebrated the city's rich lacrosse tradition while giving back to local organizations, including Special Olympics Peterborough.

two of the greatest players in the history of lacrosse, john grant sr and bobby allan
(photo by scott arnold)

The day began with free turf time for minor lacrosse players, giving young athletes the chance to get on the floor where so many Peterborough lacrosse memories have been made.

Later in the afternoon, some familiar names returned to action for a Legends and Alumni lacrosse game. Team Gold featured Bobby Allan, Carm Collins, Scott Self, Jim Gooley, Peter Guerin, Paul Evans, Darren Axford, Dean Porter, Josh Currier, Moose McIlmoyle, Kurt Johnston, Mike Burke, Peter Dalliday, Steve Evans, Josh Gilliam, Clayton Wade, Adam King, Paul Konkle and Rick Peel.

Team Gold enjoying time together after their big win (photo by scott arnold)

Team Blue included Johnny "Shooter" Davis, John Grant Sr., Jim Wasson, Len Powers, J.J. Johnston, Peter Nesbitt, Jeff Davis, Joe Todd, Frank Kylie, Jeff Ralph, Derrick Collins, Brian "Dalt" Downer, Jim Johnston, Craig Muir, Jason Clark, Ross Cowie, Jake Milligan, Steve Earl and Tyler Chambers.

The celebration continued in the evening with Storytime by the Legends at Sticks Sports Pub. The event featured stories and memories from decades of championship lacrosse in Peterborough.

legend jimmy wasson holding his mislabelled “jimmy wesson” name card (photo by scott arnold)

Sharing those stories were Bobby Allan, Carm Collins, J.J. Johnston, Don Barrie, Tim Barrie, Johnny Davis, Paul Evans, John Grant Sr., Joe Todd and Jimmy Wasson, with Peter Dalliday serving as master of ceremonies.

tim barrie telling a story as brother don looks on from the left and J.J. johnston in the middle
(Photo by scott arnold)

paul evans reminiscing about his lakers days while praising legend bobby allan (photo by scott arnold)

Jim Gooley entertains the crowd at sticks with a story from the past (photo by scott arnold)

joe todd on the mic during legends of lacrosse storytime on saturday (photo by scott arnold)

carm collins sharing his memories of playing lacrosse in peterborough

Johnny “shooter” davis telling a stories about some of his former laker teammates
(photo by Scott arnold)

The event was organized by Ernie Ellement of Boro Boys Seasonal Lacrosse, who helped bring together players, fans and community members for a day centred around giving back.

organizer ernie ellement and mc pete dalliday enjoying some down time after a full day of lacrosse
(photo by scott arnold)

Organizers said the event was all about champions supporting champions. Donations and proceeds from a raffle are being directed to Special Olympics Peterborough and Unified Champion Schools, while donations were also collected for Kawartha Food Share.

longtime laker volunteer dylan hawken took in the entire day

For many in attendance, the day was a reminder that Peterborough's lacrosse legacy extends far beyond championships. It continues through the people who built it, the young players following in their footsteps, and a community that continues to rally around the game.

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

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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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