Capital - The Stage is Set

The stage is officially set for the NPHL Capital Division Finals as the Eastern Conference Champion Manotick Mariners prepare to face the Western Conference Champion Tweed Oil Kings in what promises to be a highly competitive championship series.

Both teams arrive at the Finals after impressive playoff runs through their respective conferences, overcoming strong opponents and building momentum at the perfect time.

Manotick Mariners – Eastern Conference Champions

The Manotick Mariners fought their way through a challenging Eastern Conference bracket, defeating three strong opponents to secure their place in the championship series.

Manotick opened their playoff run with a victory over the Paugan Falls Rapids, setting the tone early with disciplined play and strong performances throughout the lineup.

In the second round, the Mariners faced the Madawaska Valley Wolves, a tough and resilient opponent. The series pushed the Mariners to stay sharp, but Manotick ultimately prevailed in five games, demonstrating their depth and ability to close out tight contests.

The Eastern Conference Final saw the Mariners match up against the North Dundas Rockets in what many expected to be a highly skilled and competitive series. Manotick rose to the challenge, controlling key moments and executing when it mattered most. The Mariners secured the series in four games, earning the title of 2025–26 Eastern Conference Champions and booking their first ever place in the Finals.

Tweed Oil Kings – Western Conference Champions

On the Western side of the bracket, the Tweed Oil Kings put together a remarkable playoff run that will be remembered as one of the most impressive stretches in team history.

Tweed began their postseason by defeating Westport, advancing with confidence and setting the stage for a strong run through the conference.

The Oil Kings then faced Smiths Falls, where the series proved to be a hard-fought battle. Tweed’s consistency and determination carried them through, ultimately securing the series in five games.

In the Western Conference Final, the Oil Kings took on the Deseronto Bulldogs. Riding a wave of momentum, Tweed delivered a dominant performance and swept the series in three games, claiming the 2025–26 Western Conference Championship.

Even more impressive, Tweed enters the Finals having won six consecutive playoff games, a streak that propelled them to the first Finals appearance in Oil Kings history.

A Championship Series Ahead

With the Mariners representing the East and the Oil Kings representing the West, the NPHL Capital Branch Finals will showcase two teams that have proven their ability to compete under playoff pressure.

Manotick arrives with a highly skilled roster and experience gained from multiple series battles, while Tweed enters the Finals with significant momentum and the confidence of a team making history.

Both clubs have navigated difficult playoff paths to reach this point, and with the championship now within reach, fans can expect an intense and exciting series as these two conference champions battle for the title.

The 2025–26 NPHL Capital Division Finals begin this Saturday March 21st @ 7:30, as the Manotick Mariners and Tweed Oil Kings face off for the championship in Gm 1 of the Best of 5 series.