Rockets’ team captain Derek Froats accepts the championship banner for the 2021-2022 season from Eastern Ontario Super Hockey League vice president Troy Murray, while team management and players look on. Tinkess Photo

Terry Tinkess
Record Staff

CHESTERVILLE – Just prior to the start of their game on Sat., Oct. 29, the North Dundas Rockets were presented with the 2021-2022 championship banner by Eastern Ontario Super Hockey League (EOSHL) vice president Troy Murray. Then, with the formalities out of the way, they proceeded to defeat the visiting Cornwall Prowlers 15-8, improving their season record to 6-0.

While he couldn’t be happier with the team’s performance, coach and general manager Rob Sadler gave credit to the community and the fans for allowing the team the opportunity to succeed.

“The community has been phenomenal,” says Sadler. “The support we get allows us to run the team, and the fan support has been great too. The team turned out to be a much bigger deal than I thought it would be, which is awesome.”

As the league continues to develop, rivalries are building. “That’s what we were hoping for,” says Sadler. “We want good clean hockey. One of the reasons we started this league is that we don’t want a goon league where they fight and stuff. That’s one of the reasons why we went this route.

“You’ll see the odd fight, but for the most part we just want good, clean hockey and for the most part it seems to be working, and the other teams seem to be having success too. Cornwall’s doing well, South Stormont is doing well, South Grenville is running a good program, there’s lots of good programs.”

As part of the pregame activities, the team recognized one of their most loyal fans, Cory van Delst, by allowing him to drop the puck for a ceremonial face-off.

“He’s been coming to every game since we started the Rockets’ program, starting with the junior team ten years ago,” said Sadler. “He doesn’t miss a game.”

For more information on the North Dundas Rockets, including their schedule, you can visit their website at www.ndrseniorhockeyclub.com.