Lakers Move Into Third Place After Wild Win Over North Stars

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers climbed back above .500 and into third place in the Major Series Lacrosse standings Thursday night, defeating the Owen Sound North Stars 13-5 in a game that featured plenty of offence, as well as a goalie fight late in the second period.

the two goalies went at it thursday night, with owen sound’s Andrew kidd (left) and peterborough’s decan knott squaring up late in the second period

The victory improves Peterborough to 7-6 on the season, moving the Lakers past Brooklin and into third place in the MSL standings with a game in hand.

While the final score was lopsided, the game will likely be remembered for what happened late in the second period.

With the Lakers leading 12-2, Jake Withers was involved in a scrum after being high-sticked in the corner. As officials escorted him away, Owen Sound starting goaltender Kaleb Martin, who had already been pulled earlier in the game, left the North Stars bench to challenge Withers, with the two exchanging several punches after breaking free from the referees who were doing their best to keep them apart.

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Seconds after officials separated them, Owen Sound goaltender Andrew Kidd left his crease and sprinted the length of the floor to challenge Lakers netminder Deacan Knott. After both goalies removed their upper equipment and squared up in the Lakers zone, they exchanged punches at the same time. Knott's punch landed flush, sending Kidd stumbling backwards before falling to the turf. All three goaltenders involved in the altercations were ejected from the game.

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Before the fireworks, the Lakers had already taken complete control.

Peterborough built a 5-0 lead after the opening period behind two goals from Holden Cattoni, along with singles from Rob Hellyer, Justin Sykes and Mike Robinson. Robinson also made history with one of the night's highlight-reel goals, scoring on a beautiful dunk play from behind the net.

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The Lakers stretched their advantage to 12-0 before Owen Sound finally broke through, with Dustyn Birkhof scoring twice in the second period. The veteran defenceman finished with a career-high three points, including the first multi-goal game of his MSL career.

Birkhof downplayed his rare offensive outburst and gave all the credit to his teammates, saying “we’ve just got hard working guys all around on our team, getting all the loose balls and they’re the ones making the play and I just got lucky and got the ball a few times”.

Braedon Saris and DJ Clark also scored twice, Robinson added his second of the night, and Hellyer capped his two-goal performance with Peterborough's final goal in the third period.

Knott stopped the first 35 minutes without allowing a goal before his ejection, while Nick Rose came on in relief to finish the game.

Peterborough received balanced scoring throughout the lineup. Saris led the way with six points on two goals and four assists, while Hellyer recorded five points (2G, 3A). Robinson and Clark each finished with four points (2G, 2A), Cattoni had four points (2G, 2A), Birkhof collected three (2G, 1A), Sykes added two (1G, 1A), Thomas Hoggarth chipped in two assists, and Dylan Hutchison recorded an assist.

The Lakers outshot Owen Sound 59-43 and converted three of six power-play opportunities in front of a crowd of 2,185 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

Peterborough returns to action next Thursday when the second-place Oakville Rock make their only regular season visit to the PMC for Little Lakers Night in support of Five Counties Children's Centre.

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

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Peterborough Petes' Alex Darling Named to Hockey Canada Staff

By Scott Arnold

Peterborough Petes Video Coach and Assistant to the General Manager Alex Darling has been selected to represent Hockey Canada at this year's National Under-17 Development Camp and the 2026 U17 World Challenge.

Peterborough Petes Video Coach and Assistant to the General Manager Alex Darling has been selected to represent Hockey Canada later this year at the u17 world challenge in oakville (photo courtesy of the peterborough petes, via david pickering)

Hockey Canada announced Thursday that Darling has been named video coach for Team White, one of two Canadian teams that will compete at the 2026 U17 World Challenge, taking place Nov. 1 to 7 in Oakville.

Before the tournament, Darling will also serve on Team White's staff at Hockey Canada's National Under-17 Development Camp, which runs July 17 to 21 at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex in Oakville. The camp will bring together many of the country's top under-17 players for practices and exhibition games before final evaluations are made ahead of the tournament.

Darling has been with the Peterborough Petes organization since 2021, first joining as a sales and service intern before moving into an administration and community engagement internship the following year.

He was promoted to Video Coach and Assistant to the General Manager before the 2023-24 season after serving as the team's video coordinator. Darling was also part of the Petes coaching staff during the club's 2023 Ontario Hockey League championship run.

A graduate of Brock University's Sport Management program, Darling has continued to take on a larger role with the Petes organization, and his selection by Hockey Canada marks another milestone in his coaching career.

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

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Peterborough Native Evan Fitzgerald Signs With Defending Memorial Cup Champion Kitchener Rangers

By Scott Arnold

Another young Peterborough hockey player is taking the next step in his career, with forward Evan Fitzgerald officially signing an Ontario Hockey League Scholarship and Development Agreement with the Kitchener Rangers.

peterborough native evan fitzgerald was all smiles after being drafted by the defending memorial cup kitchener rangers at the ohl priority selection last month (photo via instagram @ohlrangers)

The 15-year-old was selected by defending Memorial Cup Champions in the second round, 41st overall, of the 2026 OHL Priority Selection after a strong season with the Vaughan Kings U16 AAA program.

Fitzgerald recorded 16 goals and 17 assists for 33 points in 32 regular-season games before adding five points, including two goals, in four OHL Cup games.

The signing continues a family tradition in the OHL. Evan's older brother, Colin Fitzgerald, is a member of the Soo Greyhounds and was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the 2026 NHL Draft. Colin is also familiar to Peterborough hockey fans after being chosen third overall by the Peterborough Petes in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection.

Their father, Rob Fitzgerald, also played in the OHL, suiting up for the Owen Sound Platers and Belleville Bulls during his junior career.

Kitchener General Manager Mike McKenzie described Fitzgerald as a tenacious, hard-to-play-against forward who creates offence by winning battles and competing in the hard areas of the ice, adding that the Rangers believe his style of play will translate well to the OHL.

Signing the agreement marks another milestone for Fitzgerald as he prepares to attend the Rangers' training camp and begin the next chapter of his hockey career.

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

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Petes Sign First Round Pick Landon Roulston to OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Petes have officially added one of their top selections from the 2026 OHL Priority Selection, signing forward Landon Roulston to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement.

the peterborough jr c lakers will look to even their series with the warriors when they travel to whitby for game 2 on sunday (photo via facebook @peterboroughjrclakers)

Roulston was selected by the Petes with the 13th overall pick in this year’s draft and is now set to continue his hockey development with the organization.

The Oakville forward joins Peterborough after a strong season with the Vaughan Kings U16s of the Greater Toronto Hockey League. In 33 games, Roulston recorded 18 goals and 20 assists for 38 points, finishing second on his team in scoring.

He also helped the Kings capture the GTHL Championship before adding four points in four games at the OHL Cup.

The 6-foot-2 forward was one of the players who made an impression during the Petes’ Development Camp earlier this summer, according to General Manager and Vice President of Operations Michael Oke.

“Landon is a big, strong, two-way forward who loves to compete,” said Oke. “He possesses the skill and character that we look for in a Peterborough Pete.”

Roulston said he is excited for the opportunity to join the organization.

“It feels awesome to join such a prestigious organization,” said Roulston. “It’s a really big step in my hockey journey and I am looking forward to getting started with this group. Now the real work begins.”

The Petes will begin their preseason schedule in Guelph on August 28th, with their first home preseason game set for September 3rd at 7pm when they host Sarnia at the PMC.

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

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Peterborough Jr. C Lakers Drop Division Final Opener to Whitby

By Scott Arnold

The Peterborough Jr. C Lakers will look to even their Central Division Final series on Sunday after dropping Game 1 to the Whitby Warriors 8-5 Wednesday night at Healthy Planet Arena.

the peterborough jr c lakers will look to even their series with the warriors when they travel to whitby for game 2 on sunday (photo via facebook @peterboroughjrclakers)

Whitby built a 3-1 lead after the opening period before both teams scored three goals in the second. Peterborough narrowed the gap to 6-5 midway through the third period, but the Warriors scored twice in the final 7:30 to secure the victory and take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

Braxtin Howard led the Lakers with two goals and two assists, while Ryder Perry picked up a goal and two assists. Kennen Withers added a goal and an assist, with Hayden Heigh scoring Peterborough's other goal.

Quinn Jacobs recorded two assists, while Ryder Evans added one assist.

Game 2 is set for Sunday at 2 pm at the McKinney Centre in Whitby before the series returns to Healthy Planet Arena for Game 3 on Wednesday at 8 pm.

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

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Peterborough Petes Sign Fenelon Falls Forward to OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement

The Peterborough Petes have signed 2007-born forward and Fenelon Falls native James McMurray to an OHL Scholarship and Development Agreement, announced on Wednesday.

Photo courtesy of Emily Simonetta and the Peterborough Petes.

“It’s a dream come true to join the Petes, the team I grew up watching,” exclaimed McMurray. “I can’t wait to get the season started.”

McMurray has spent the last two years in Sheffield, Mass., playing for Berkshire School in the New England Prep School Athletic Council. He totalled 78 points in 65 games. A product of the Central Ontario Wolves organization, McMurray played for the Peterborough Petes U18s in 2023-24, leading the team in points with 47 in 34 games. That same season, he played in three games for the Lindsay Muskies of the OJHL, registering one assist.

“James is a player we've been tracking since his days with the Central Ontario Wolves,” said Michael Oke, Petes general manager and vice president of operations. “We got to know him well during his time with the U18 Petes and when he attended our Development Camp in 2024. He’s a skilled forward who competes hard every shift and is coming off two strong seasons at Berkshire School in Massachusetts.”

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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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Peterborough Petes Release 2026 Preseason Schedule

The Peterborough Petes have four games scheduled for the 2026 preseason, with two home and two road games, starting on Aug. 28.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Petes.

Peterborough takes on the Guelph Storm and Ottawa 67’s on the road while hosting the Sarnia Sting and Niagara IceDogs.

The Petes full preseason schedule is as follows:

• Friday, Aug. 28 @ Guelph Storm - 7:00 p.m. - Sleeman Centre

• Thursday, Sept. 3 vs Sarnia Sting - 7:00 p.m. - Peterborough Memorial Centre

• Saturday, Sept. 5 @ Ottawa 67’s - 4:00 p.m. - Bert Hall Arena - Arnprior, ON

• Saturday, Sept. 12 vs Niagara IceDogs - Time TBD - Miskin Law Community Complex

@ptbo_canada The @Peterborough Petes have four games scheduled for the 2026 preseason, with two home and two road games, starting on Aug. 28. #journalism #fyp #news #ptbocanada #peterboroughpetes ♬ Winning - ROKKA

Ticket details for the Petes’ home games will be released at a later date.

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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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