The Strathroy Rockets are building momentum early in the 2025–26 GOJHL campaign, announcing several key roster moves while celebrating a 3–1 victory over the St. Thomas Stars in Game Five of the regular season.
Game Five Recap: Rockets 3 – Stars 1
The Rockets set the tone from the opening faceoff and never looked back in front of a crowd at Joe Thorn. Goals from Cole Dotterman, Zander Kechego, and Lucas Laprise fueled the offense, while the team’s special teams delivered in clutch moments — finishing 100% on the penalty kill and 25% on the power play (1/4).
In goal, Seth Ronan was outstanding, turning aside 36 of 37 shots to earn his first career GOJHL victory. The Rockets’ discipline and ability to withstand a strong third-period push by St. Thomas proved to be the difference in securing the win.
Roster Transactions
The Rockets have been active in strengthening their lineup, making a series of impactful moves that added depth, skill, and OHL-calibre talent:
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Gavin McGahey-Smith (Oshawa Generals, 8th-round pick) – Acquired from Komoka Kings & Thamesford Trojans.
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Connor Crandon (London Jr. Knights U18 AAA standout) – Acquired from Komoka Kings.
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Nathan Gaitens (Kitchener Rangers, 4th-round pick; defenceman) – Acquired from the St. Thomas Stars.
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Ian Nurton (Owen Sound draft pick) – Acquired from the London Nationals.
Transactions:
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Phil Castrodale was dealt to Komoka in exchange for Crandon.
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Player Development Fees (PDFs) were sent to Komoka (McGahey-Smith) and London (Nurton).
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In a blockbuster trade, veteran defenceman Charlie Stucke was moved to St. Thomas in exchange for highly regarded OHL prospect Nathan Gaitens.
Three of four acquisitions made their Rockets debut Friday against St. Thomas.
Season to Date
After five games, the Rockets hold a 2-2-1 record and have leaned on a balanced offensive attack:
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Jake Ritson leads with 7 points.
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Zachary Leblanc has contributed 6 points.
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Laprise, Janicek, and Rogers have each added 5 points.
The Rockets’ rookie contributions, special teams play, and a commitment to progressive discipline post game 1-4 have been central themes early in the season.
Looking Ahead
The Rockets return to action tonight, September 27th, hosting the Caledonia Corvairs at 7:30 p.m. at the West Middlesex Memorial Centre — a rink the team proudly calls home.
