by Murray Link
In what has been described as “A clash of the Titans”, the November 2nd home game between the North Dundas Rockets and the Manotick Mariners is expected to set a possible attendance record in the hometown Chesterville Rink. In fact, there has been a buzz all season long with the Rockets fan base in what might be the most highly anticipated league game in Eastern Ontario Super Hockey League history! The Mariners, new to the league this year, have yet to play against the 2-time league champ Rockets… who are in their fourth season in the EOSHL. From the outside, one may wonder why two teams that have never played one another would be such a big deal, but in reality, the two teams share a tonne of history. For those who are not up to date… perhaps a team recap should be in order.
The North Dundas Senior hockey club is the brainchild of Rob Raistrick and Robyn Sadler. “The two Robs” as they like to be called have strong ties to the North Dundas community and were instrumental in putting together a Senior team which they thought could compete at the highest level. In the summer of 2019, Sadler recruited two forwards, Brett Gustavsen and Ryan Lough from the West Carleton Rivermen in hopes that they could contribute to his squad in the inaugural Rockets season. “Gus was a diamond in the rough” stated Sadler. “He didn’t produce with the Rivermen but once he came to Chesterville the floodgates opened”. In his 3 years with the Rockets, #66 Brett Gustavsen played 78 games and accumulated 193 pts (76 G, 117 A). Gustavsen, who was a crowd favourite, also took home EOSHL top forward honours two times. #93 Ryan Lough, who was acquired in the same year was described by Sadler as “A natural goal scorer with speed like no other”. In his three years with the Rockets, Lough proved his worth and collected 138 pts (80 G, 58 A) in 55 games in the cream and red jersey.
The Manotick Mariners, formerly the Cornwall Prowlers, were bought and relocated in the spring of 2024. Over the course of the summer, the Mariners proved they were going to be a force to be reckoned with by making some key signing announcements. On September 20, 2024, Manotick made a major announcement that further boosted their club’s potential as a contender by acquiring both Brett Gustavesen and Ryan Lough from the North Dundas Rockets.
“It’s sad to see them go” stated Rockets head coach Robyn Sadler “but they both asked for a trade to be closer to home so I didn’t want to hold them back”. Manotick, who reside in the Capital Division of the EOSHL, are sitting in first place with a 4-1 record. Newly appointed captain Ryan Lough has made a big impact with 16 pts (8G, 8A).
For those in North Dundas who have yet to take in a Rockets game, this Saturday will be an excellent demonstration of the best senior hockey in Eastern Ontario. For those faithful Rockets fans, get ready for fast paced, hard hitting action… warm-up at 1:30… puck drop at 2:00. An afternoon of excitement with a cold beverage in the Launch pad and as always, the 50/50 and watch someone from the crowd shoot for $25,000 in cash. To keep up to date with the Senior Rockets, don’t forget to follow the Facebook page. For all stats, scores, and standings in the EOSHL, click on eoshl.hockeyshift.com. The question is North Dundas: ARE YOU GOING TO THE GAME!?
