The National Lacrosse League season kicks off with an exciting all-Ontario matchup as the Oshawa FireWolves host the Toronto Rock at Tribute Communities Centre on Friday. This marks the first professional lacrosse game for the newly relocated FireWolves franchise in their new home city.
Southern Ontario's Lacrosse Renaissance
Southern Ontario has long been recognized as a hotbed for lacrosse talent, and now the region boasts two NLL teams for fans to support. The Oshawa FireWolves have generated significant excitement since their relocation from Albany, New York in August 2025. Meanwhile, the Toronto Rock anticipate returning to their newly renovated home in Hamilton after playing last season in Mississauga.
The FireWolves' move to Oshawa represents a homecoming for many team members with deep roots in the area. The 5,100-seat Tribute Communities Centre, which also hosts the OHL's Oshawa Generals, is expected to be near capacity for the historic opener.
Homecoming for Local Talent
FireWolves head coach Glenn Clark expressed enthusiasm about returning to his hometown region. "I grew up in this area," Clark said. "Most of our players are from the GTA and are familiar with this area. Guys are excited. Family and friends can come see them. It is for the most part a homecoming."
Forward Dyson Williams shared similar sentiments about the significance of playing professional lacrosse in Oshawa. "Ultimately, this is where my dream of being an NLL player all began," Williams noted. "Now coming back and being part of the first pro team here is unbelievable. The past couple of months have been a whirlwind of emotion. It is very special."
Team Improvements and Key Players
Both teams are looking to bounce back from challenging 2024 seasons where the FireWolves finished 7-11 and the Rock posted a 6-12 record. Injuries and close losses hampered both squads last year.
The FireWolves feature several standout players including goaltender Doug Jamieson, a former NLL Goaltender of the Year who was instrumental in the team's run to the 2024 finals. On offense, Alex Simmons has consistently produced with 96 points in each of the past two seasons, including 37 goals last year. Tye Kurtz also contributed significantly with 35 goals and 87 points.
The Toronto Rock generate excitement around their promising rookie class. First-overall pick C.J. Kirst, the U.S. college player of the year and national champion from Cornell, brings box lacrosse experience to the team. Third-pick Owen Hiltz from Syracuse also impressed during preseason after developing his skills with the Peterborough Lakers in junior lacrosse.
Veteran goaltender Nick Rose returns to Toronto after being traded to Calgary last season, always intended to rejoin the Rock as a free agent. The defense remains strong with Brad Kri and Josh Jubenville leading the way, while Josh Dawick looks to build on his breakout scoring season.
Rock assistant coach Dan Dawson expressed confidence in his offensive unit: "They're athletic. They're big. There are so many great players and we're big believers that it is going to be scoring by committee. It's going to be a new guy stepping up every single night."
Future Home Games
Following their season opener in Oshawa, the Toronto Rock will debut in their renovated Hamilton home now known as TD Coliseum on December 13 against the Calgary Roughnecks. The complete arena overhaul forced the team to play in Mississauga last season, but they still averaged nearly 8,000 fans in 2024.
The FireWolves and Rock matchup represents more than just a season opener—it signals growing professional lacrosse presence in Southern Ontario and provides fans with two home teams to support throughout the NLL season.
