Peterborough to Host Women’s Major Series Lacrosse Provincial Championships Aug. 15-17

Peterborough has been chosen to host the 2025 Women’s Major Series Lacrosse (WMSL) Provincial Championships held Aug. 15 to 17 at the Peterborough Memorial Centre and Kinsmen Civic Centre, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

All 10 Women’s Major Series Lacrosse League teams from across the province qualify for this event. The tournament will feature round-robin games and an elimination round. The gold medal game is set for Aug. 17.

“Peterborough has a deep-rooted lacrosse culture, from minor leagues to the 18-time Mann Cup champion Peterborough Lakers,” said Victoria Clark, WMSL assistant commissioner. “We are thrilled to bring this premier event to the community, and to further showcase the talent of women’s box lacrosse.”

“Women’s Major Series Lacrosse Provincial Championship is an exciting opportunity to showcase the incredible talent in women’s lacrosse, including our hometown Peterborough Lakers, and highlight Peterborough’s reputation as a premier lacrosse destination,” said Peterborough City Councilors Lesley Parnell and Alex Bierk in a joint statement. “Peterborough Tourism and the Peterborough WMSL Lakers collaborating on this event gives us a chance to showcase our top-tier facilities and vibrant summer activities, while also allowing us to celebrate women in sport.”

The WMSL rebranded from the Ontario Women’s Box Lacrosse League in 2022 and now includes teams from Kingston, Peterborough, Whitby, Mimico, Mississauga, Hamilton, Arthur, London, Grand River and Niagara.

The WMSL Lakers competed in their inaugural season last year, finishing fourth in the regular season. The team hosted a league day in July last year at the Healthy Planet Arena. According to a press release, several fans filled the venue, which sparked enough community support to spark the team’s interest in hosting Provincials during their second year in the league.

The team fell short in the Provincial Gold Medal Game, losing 2-0 in the semi-final to the reigning champion Whitby Rush. The WMSL Lakers feature two star players, Emily VanDamme and Nicole Perroni, who were named to the WMSL All-Star Team at the end of the 2024 season.

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Peterborough Jr. A Lakers Hire Homegrown Talent As New Assistant Coach

The Peterborough Jr. A Lakers have hired Dustin Dunn as the team’s new assistant coach, taking over the role of Turner Evans, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Lakers

Dunn joins returning staff such as head coach Robert Hope and assistants Jeff Ralph, Curtis Conley and Taylor Evans.

Turner stepped away from coaching to focus on his young family as his family recently welcomed their third child, alongside work and lacrosse commitments.

The Peterborough native is a product of the hometown’s minor lacrosse system, including a five-year career with the Jr. A Lakers with a Minto Cup victory in 2006 and a selection to the Jr A All-Star team in 2009. His collegiate career consisted of NCAA’s SUNY Potsdam Bears and in CUFLA with the Brock University Badgers.

His professional career saw him drafted by the National Lacrosse League’s Buffalo Bandits and played for the Toronto Rock. He also played in the Major Series Lacrosse with the Brooklin L.C. and Nanaimo Timbermen in the Western Lacrosse League.

Dunn returned to the Peterborough lacrosse scene in 2019, coaching the U13 Peterborough minor lacrosse team to a provincial bronze medal. Most recently, he led the U17 Clarington Green Gaels to an ‘A’ gold medal at the 2024 Ontario Summer Games, with a roster of half of its players from Peterborough due to lacking a local team in that age group. Lacrosse Canada named Dunn their technical/national development teams coordinator earlier this year.

“I’m incredibly excited to join the Lakers as an assistant coach,” said Dunn. “This organization and this city mean so much to me. I grew up in this system, won a Minto Cup here, and now I get to help guide the next generation of Jr A Lakers. It’s an honour to work alongside this coaching staff and contribute to the team’s success.”

“Dustin is a fantastic addition to our staff,” said Hope. “His experience as a player at the highest levels and his proven track record as a coach make him a perfect fit for this team. He understands what it takes to win in Peterborough and I’m confident he’ll bring a fresh perspective and energy to our group.”

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Peterborough Lakers Acquire Goaltender Nick Rose In Exchange For Landon Kells and First-Round Pick

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers have acquired veteran goaltender Nick Rose from the Oakville Rock in exchange for goalie Landon Kells and a 2026 first-round pick, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Lakers

The 37-year-old is the starting goaltender for the Calgary Roughnecks of the National Lacrosse League (NLL). The 37-year-old brings leadership, stability and a championship pedigree as the Lakers set their sights on another Mann Cup title.

He was named the 2024 NLL Goaltender of the Year while playing for the Toronto Rock.

“We’re thrilled to bring Nick to Peterborough,” said Mike Hasen, Lakers head coach and general manager. “His track record speaks for itself—he’s a proven winner, and his experience will be a huge asset for us. We also want to thank Landon Kells for his time in Peterborough. He has a bright future, and we wish him all the best in Oakville.”

Rose said he is eager to join the Lakers and play for the fans.

“I had a conversation with Mike Hasen, and Peterborough was a very attractive option. They are always in the hunt. I’m excited to go to one of the most historic Sr. franchises there is,” he explained. “I don’t have too many cracks left at winning a Mann Cup, so 100 per cent, I want to try and win one. The Lakers organization is in the mix every single summer for it and I’m excited to battle with my new teammates.”

Rose will have some familiar faces to greet him in the Lakers dressing room.

“I know Withers from Team Canada and I know Hoggarth really well from his time in Orangeville in junior,” he said. “I also know Hopey pretty well too, so it’s great to be joining a team with guys I already have a connection with.”

The Lakers begin thier season on the road against the Brooklin L.C. on May 21. They will have a major rivalry night in their home opener the next day against the two-time defending MSL champion Six Nations Chiefs.

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Registration For Jr. A Lakers Release Full Schedule For 2025 Season

The Peterborough Jr. A Lakers have officially released its Ontario Junior Lacrosse League schedule for the 2025 season.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Jr. A Lakers.

The season starts on the road against the Whitby Warriors on May 20 at 7:30 p.m at Iroquois Park. The team’s home opener is on May 26 at 8 p.m. at the Peterborough Memorial Centre against the Oakville Buzz.

“We’re thrilled to get back on the floor at the PMC in front of our incredible fans,” said Robert Hope, Lakers head coach. “Facing Oakville on May 26 is a fantastic way to kick things off at home. Our guys are hungry after last year’s playoff run, and we’re building toward something special this season.”

The following is the complete 2025 schedule:

Home Games:

• May 26, 8 p.m. vs Oakville Buzz

• May 30, 8 p.m. vs Six Nations Arrows

• June 16, 8 p.m. vs Kitchener Waterloo

• June 18, 8 p.m. vs Burlington Blaze

• June 20, 8 p.m. vs Orangeville Northmen

• June 23, 8 p.m. vs Toronto Beaches

• June 27, 8 p.m. vs St Catharines Athletics

• June 30, 8 p.m. vs Mimico Mountaineers

• July 2, 8 p.m. vs Brampton Excelsiors

• July 7, 8 p.m. vs Whitby Warriors

Away Games:

• May 20, 7:30 p.m. at Whitby Warriors (Iroquois Park – Pad 1)

• May 23, 7:30 p.m. at Kitchener Waterloo (Memorial – Aud)

• May 28, 8 p.m. at St Catharines Athletics (Canada Games Park)

• June 2, 8 p.m. at Burlington Blaze (Central Arena)

• June 5, 8 p.m. at Six Nations Arrows (Iroquois Lacrosse Arena – ILA)

• June 10, 8 p.m. at Toronto Beaches (Ted Reeve Arena)

• June 13, 8 p.m. at Mimico Mountaineers (Mimico Arena)

• June 25, 8 p.m. at Oakville Buzz (Toronto Rock Athletic Centre – TRAC)

• July 4, 8 p.m. at Brampton Excelsiors (Memorial Arena)

• July 10, 8 p.m. at Orangeville Northmen (Tony Rose Arena)

The Lakers reached the semifinals before falling to the Mimico Mountaineers last season. This year, Hope says the Lakers are eager to take the next step toward capturing the OJLL title and a shot at the prestigious Minto Cup.

“We’re not just playing for wins; we’re playing to continue building the storied legacy of lacrosse in our city,” he explained. “This season, we’re going to leave everything on the floor and do our best to bring the Minto Cup home to Peterborough, where it belongs.”

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Registration For Jr. A Lakers Summer Camp Opens This Friday

Kids can pick up their lacrosse sticks and toss the ball around as registration for the Peterborough Jr. A Lakers Summer Camp opens this Friday at 8 a.m.

Photo courtesy of the Peterborough Jr. A Lakers

The camp is held at the Peterborough Memorial Centre in a four-week multi-sport camp for athletes ages six-12 and runs through July.

“I’m grateful for the foundation Turner has built and excited to continue delivering an unforgettable experience for our campers,” said Curtis Conley, camp director.

Conley was newly appointed to the role, taking over for Turner Evans. The former is a Trent University Bachelor of Education student with both playing and coaching experience. He is an assistant coach with the Jr. A Lakers, played for the Cobourg Kodiaks in the MSL last summer and has played professionally in the National Lacrosse League with the Albany Firewolves and New York Riptide.

“I’m passionate about teaching and coaching, and I can’t wait to help young athletes grow their skills in a supportive, high-energy environment,” said Conley.

The camp offers a mix of sports and activities, focusing on daily lacrosse instruction led by Jr. A Lakers players and special guest coaches. It is suitable for children of all skill levels.

Camp Details:

• Dates & Fees:

• Week 1: June 30, July 2-4 (four-day week) – $180

• Week 2: July 7-11 – $200

• Week 3: July 14-18 – $200

• Week 4: July 21-25 – $200

• Location: Peterborough Memorial Centre

• Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

• Ages: 6-12

• Highlights: Multi-sport activities with daily lacrosse training, led by Jr A Lakers players and special guests

Online registration is available or through a link at PtboJrLakers.ca. Spots are limited and expected to fill quickly, so don’t miss out! Whether you’re a returning camper or a new face, the Jr A Lakers Summer Camp is ready to welcome you for a summer of growth, leadership, and fun.

Conley says he’s looking forward to seeing everyone at camp and continuing the tradition of excellence that makes this program so special.

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Peterborough Lakers Release 2025 Regular Season Schedule

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers have released its 2025 Major Series Lacrosse (MSL) regular season schedule with 18 games, announced on Sunday morning.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Lakers

The following is the full schedule:

• May 21 @ Brooklin L.C.

• May 22 vs. Six Nations Chiefs

• May 29 vs. Brampton Excelsiors

• May 31 @ Owen Sound North Stars

• June 1 @ Cobourg Kodiaks

• Jun 5 vs Oakville Rock

• June 12 @ Brampton Excelsiors

• June 16 @ Oakville Rock

• June 19 vs. Brooklin L.C.

• June 24 @ Six Nations Chiefs

• June 26 vs Cobourg Kodiaks

• July 3 vs. Owen Sound North Stars

• July 9 @ Brooklin L.C.

• July 10 vs. Six Nations Chiefs

• July 17 vs. Oakville Rock

• July 19 @ Owen Sound North Stars

• July 24 vs. Brampton Excelsiors

• July 27 @ Cobourg Kodiaks

“Theme nights and sponsor nights will be announced at a later date but fans can expect an exciting lineup of special events throughout the season to enhance the game-night experience at the Memorial Centre,” said Pete Dalliday, Lakers director of community engagement and partnerships. 

Season tickets for all home games are available at the Grant Thornton Box Office. Operating hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Single-game tickets go on sale in May.

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Peterborough Lakers Make Home Opener a Rivalry Night Against Defending-Champion Six Nations Chiefs On May 22nd

The Peterborough Century 21 Lakers kick off their home opener, a rivalry game as they are taking on the two-time defending Mann Cup champion Six Nations Chiefs on May 22 at 8 p.m. at the Peterborough Memorial Centre (PMC), announced at Kawartha TV & Stereo on Thursday afternoon.

COlton Armstrong, Lakers transition points to the home opener trailer (developed by PTBOCanada) with Lakers staff and Kawartha TV & Stereo employees being played outside. Photo by David Tuan bui.

Both teams met in the Major Series Lacrosse final for four consecutive seasons and also matched up nine times in the last 10 seasons.

“We couldn’t script a better way to open the season at home,” said Len Powers, Lakers Board Chair. “Our rivalry with Six Nations is one of the best in lacrosse, and after last year’s hard-fought final, we know this game is going to be something special.”

The Lakers will release information for individual game tickets at a later date. Currently, Season tickets are available at the Grant Thornton Box Office at the PMC.

The Home Opener gives fans a chance to win a season-long promotion where the Lakers — in partnership with Kawartha TV & Stereo — will be giving away an Ultimate Lakers Fan Experience.

The winner at the end of the regular season will receive the following:

• A 70-inch Samsung 4K Smart TV

• A Samsung premium soundbar with subwoofer

• Lakers playoff tickets

• Exclusive Lakers swag

The media event also launched the home opener video (developed by PTBOCanada). It and other Lakers’ videos will be featured during the summer on Kawartha TV & Stereo’s outdoor video screens on the corner of Park and Lansdowne Street.

“Like the Lakers, Kawartha TV & Stereo is part of the fabric of Peterborough, so teaming up with them to bring fans this exciting promotion just made sense,” said Pete Dalliday, Peterborough Lakers director of community engagement and partnerships. We are super excited to welcome them to The Lake Show.”

“We’ve always been passionate about supporting local organizations, and working with the Lakers on this initiative is a great way to give back to the fans,” said Shaun Williams of Kawartha TV & Stereo.

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Peterborough Lakers Season Tickets On Sale Starting Monday

The Peterborough Lakers are selling season tickets for the 2025 Major Series Lacrosse (MSL) season starting Monday at the Grant Thornton Box Office, announced on Thursday.

Photo courtesy of David Pickering and the Peterborough Lakers.

Season tickets grant the following:

• Guaranteed seats for all nine regular season home games (No playoff games included)

• Exclusive savings compared to single-game tickets

• Priority access to playoff tickets

• Special offers and promotions for season ticket holders

• Be part of the Lakers' passionate lacrosse community

• Season tickets can be pre-printed or picked up at Will Call

• Passes to Jr. A and Jr. C Lakers games are included

“We can’t wait to welcome our incredible fans back to the Peterborough Memorial Centre,” said Robert Hope, Lakers captain. “The energy our supporters bring to each game fuels our players and helps us strive for greatness year after year.”

Season tickets must be renewed in person at the Peterborough Memorial Centre Grant Thornton box office, open Monday – Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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Peterborough Lakers Partner With Fleming College Students For Business and Marketing Consultation

As a final project for 39 Fleming College students, they are providing business and marketing consultation for the Peterborough Lakers in a partnership announced at the Peterborough and District Sports Hall of Fame on Friday morning.

Pete Dalliday (right) addresses the Fleming Students during a Q&A session. Photo by David Tuan bui.

The students are from the General Business program within Fleming College’s School of Business and IT Applied Projects class. The collaboration will run until April for the undergraduate students.

“This collaboration project is to build awareness and sales for the Peterborough Lakers,” said David Swales, program coordinator and professor. “The project itself is to create the strategy and identify deliverables; we’re acting like consultants.”

Students are responsible for conducting research to create a consulting package on how to raise ticket sales and gain sponsorships for the Lakers. Pete Dalliday, Lakers director of community engagement, laid out an overview of the organization’s current status and goals of what they are looking to achieve.

Swales says the students are well-equipped with the tools to effectively help the Lakers reach their goals.

“So many of them have such great social media skills so there’s a lot of expertise they can bring,” he explained.

After the Q&A session, the students were given a tour of the facility and treated to briefly watch an ongoing hockey game at the Peterborough Memorial Centre.

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Hometown PTBO: Caleb Connell From Being a Fan to the Jr. Lakers Then Drafted to the Peterborough Lakers

This week on Hometown PTBO, David Tuan Bui talks with Peterborough Lakers draftee Caleb Connell about being taken by the Lakers in this year's MSL draft, growing up playing for the Jr. Lakers lacrosse system and how he went from a lifelong Lakers fan to being drafted.

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