Upsets and More! What a Weekend

NPHL Weekend Recap – Parity, Skill, and Statement Wins Across the League

The Northern Premier Hockey League continues to prove why it’s one of the most competitive and fast-growing leagues in the country. This past weekend was a perfect snapshot of what makes the NPHL special — tight rivalries, elite-level skill, and true parity from top to bottom.

In the Metropolitan Branch, fans were treated to a rematch of last year’s championship series between the Stratford Irish and the Strathroy Jets. The two clubs once again delivered a high-caliber game worthy of their rivalry, trading chances in a fast, physical contest that highlighted just how strong the hockey has become across the branch. With the Jets coming out on top, both sides showed why they’re perennial contenders, with structure, speed, and goaltending that set the standard for the league.

Meanwhile in the Capital Branch, one of the league’s top rivalries lived up to the hype as the Manotick Mariners edged the defending champion North Dundas Rockets 3–2 in a fast, skilled, and disciplined battle. The game was a showcase of the NPHL’s growing talent pool — end-to-end speed, precise execution, and elite-level goaltending from both sides.

In the West, the Tamworth Sabres shocked the NPHL landscape by upsetting last year’s Western Conference champions, the Smiths Falls Rideaus. Goaltender Dryden Bedard was the story of the night — turning aside everything in sight and cementing himself as a local legend with a performance that will be talked about all season.

From upsets to rivalry classics, the NPHL’s competitive balance and overall skill level have never been higher. Every division is packed with talent, every game carries playoff intensity, and every weekend brings new storylines that underline the league’s growth.

As October winds down, one thing is certain — the NPHL has never been stronger, faster, or more exciting to watch.