Local stars shine at PJHL All-Star Game in Campbellford

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

Local junior hockey talent took centre ice, Sunday, January 11th, as players from Uxbridge, Port Perry, and Little Britain showcased their skills at the Provincial Junior Hockey League’s (PJHL) annual All-Star Game. This season, the PJHL hosted four all-star games: East, West, North, and South Conferences, each offering home-ice advantage in the provincial quarterfinals. In Trent Hills, the Orr Division faced off against the Tod Division, with the Tod Division coming out on top, 5-2.

The game was held at the new Sunny Life Recreation & Wellness Centre, in Campbellford which opened in late 2024, drawing a crowd of nearly 500 hockey fans. Attendees enjoyed live music, before the puck dropped and between periods, creating a lively, festival-like atmosphere.

Local teams were well represented on the ice. The Uxbridge Bruins sent goaltender Robby DiMaria and skaters Bensen Moore, Tyson Lotton, Ryan Shier, and Darin Bain. Port Perry LumberJacks participants included Raine Nadeau, Dylan Leslie, and Parker Lemay, while Little Britain Merchants’ roster featured Everitt Corneil, Beckham Reznik, Tyler Johnston, and goaltender Ethan Beattie.

Community involvement extended to behind the bench as well. Merchants head coach Matt Muir and LumberJacks’ Doug Parkin served as Assistant Coaches, while Uxbridge’s Scott Cowan and Port Perry’s Kirk Bricknell worked as trainers.

“It’s a great feeling to see our players recognized like this,” said Mr. Muir. “They work so hard all season, and to get the chance to showcase their skills in front of peers and scouts is really special.”

Mr. Shier added, “Having our guys out there, plus the coaching and training support, really shows the strength and depth of hockey in our division. A lot of the guys are getting near the end of their junior careers, so it was a great way to respect the work they have put in during their time.”

Port Perry’s Parker Lemay made a mark with a power-play goal, in the third period. “Scoring in a game like this is unforgettable,” he said. “Even though we didn’t win, it was awesome to play alongside such talented guys, from all over the league.”

For local hockey fans, the PJHL All-Star Game offered more than just high-level hockey, it was a celebration of the region’s young talent, a showcase for rising stars, and a chance to experience the new Campbellford arena in full swing.