Pontiacs take the Home Opener

The Pontiacs got the first win of the season in front of a jammed packed home crowd Friday night. 

The opening ceremony recognized local team sponsors Armohr Farms and K&L Dairy, both who helped purchase the Pontiacs jerseys for the 2025-2026 campaign.

Eagle River Singers, a traditional Algonquin drum group from Kitigan Zibi & Barriere Lake, shared an opening message and song helping kick start the 2025 home season off on the right foot.

Shawville cashed in early and often, with veteran forward Joey Brennan (2G,0A) scoring just 1:35 into the opening frame with assists to rookie forward Nicola Lacourse-Dion (1G, 1A). Minutes later, RyanLee Wadden (1G, 0A) scored his first of the campaign from Jean-Philippe Caron (0G, 2A) and Raphael Lafontaine (0G, 1A).

The shots after the first period were 14-7 (Shawville), and the home team was  up 2-1 at the break.

The second period started off tight with back and forth action for the first ten minutes of the middle frame. Marc-Olivier Racine-Roy (1G, 1A) popped his second of the season from rookie defensemen Zachary Page (0G, 1A). The Pontiacs went on to score two more before the end of the second frame from skilled defensemen Jacob Roy-Lauzon and forward Joey Brennan. The Pontiacs held the visiting Rivermen to only 1 shot against in the second period.

The game continued in Shawvilles favor throughout the third period. Newcomers Julien Arruda (1G, 0A) and Dion finished off the visiting team, giving the Pontiacs a commanding 7-1 lead. 

"We thought our boys played a great game" said Head Coach Findlay. "We skated well and finished our chances when we had the opportunity. It's nice to see the team give up so few chances against from the slot and really buy into our team identity".

Findlay mentioned "it was awesome to see our community back at the arena and supporting Senior hockey again. The arena was full and the energy was high. It should be a very exciting season".

The Pontiacs Joey Brennan was named 1st star of the game, while RyanLee Wadden was named 2nd star.

For complete box scores and breakdowns, check out the league website at

https://www.nphlhockey.ca/stats#/988/game/1115385/boxscore

The Pontiacs hit the road for a rare back to back game vs. division rival Paugan Falls this Saturday, October 11 (7:00pm puck drop) before returning home next Friday night, October 17 when they take on the South Stormont Mustangs. 

Tickets are on sale online at https://events.frontdoor.plus/event/1553 and also available at the front gate.