Page 22 – Algonquin Times

Jamie Bramburger honoured in memorial hockey game

Former NHL stars join Pembroke’s hockey and college communities in Jamie Bramburger Fall Classic

Kendra Mendrisky

Photos: Kendra Mendrisky

November 3, 2025
Revised: November 3, 2025 9:11am

Photo: Kendra Mendrisky

Sean Fitzgerald (left) and Jerry Novack (right) participating in the commemorative puck drop before the Jamie Bramburger Fall Classic in the Pembroke Memorial Centre.

By Kendra Mendrisky and Vasileios Tselios

“Stand up and cheer, Hockey Town Canada. The long wait is over! For the first time since 1989, the Pembroke Lumber Kings are champions of the Central Junior Hockey League.”

The first time Pembroke residents heard Jamie Bramburger make this call was in 2007, announcing the Lumber Kings, or PLK to some locals, as the winners of the Art Bogart Cup.

Eighteen years later, they would hear a recording of this very announcement at the Pembroke Memorial Centre before the inaugural Jamie Bramburger Fall Classic, a charity game in honour of the former dean who died on March 11.

On Oct. 25, Lumber Kings alumni faced off against Algonquin College teachers and staff in a two-hour game, raising money for The Grind Pembroke and the Jamie Bramburger Memorial Fund, which supports students in need at Algonquin College.

Angela Rintoul, the current dean of Algonquin College’s Pembroke campus, remembers the hard work Bramburger did alongside former dean, Karen Davis, to move the college to a new campus beside the Ottawa River.

“They basically managed to build a brand-new campus with almost no ministry funding,” said Rintoul. “Twenty-five years at the college is a huge accomplishment, and he is in every corner about campus. He lived and breathed college — that was his passion.”

As the manager of community and student affairs, Bramburger had a great impact on students’ success, and he was awarded the Algonquin College Employee Philanthropic Recognition Award in 2020.

But as much as Bramburger cherished the school, he was just as passionate about something else: hockey.

“Jamie’s love of hockey was enormous, and his faith and love of the Pembroke Lumber Kings was also just as big,” said Rintoul. “This was a big part of his life; this arena was a big part of his life. He spent many nights out here calling games, volunteering his time, giving it back to the community.”

Pembroke Lumber Kings alumni Sean Crozier talking to the crowd before the Jamie Bramburger Fall Classic. Photo credit: Vasileios Tselios

Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais described Bramburger as a “community-spirited individual.”

“If there was ever a job or something that needed to be done, he was there,” said Gervais. “He loved this place, he loved the PMC. He was involved in a number of Pembroke community initiatives and committees. So anytime, if we ever needed something or wanted something, Jamie was there.”

Sporting a Lumber Kings jersey, Gervais participated in the ceremonial puck drop, accompanied by Bramburger’s family, Rintoul and Fred Blackstein, a friend of Bramburger.

Blackstein, also a former member of the college board of governors, gave a tribute to Bramburger before the game and announced the arena would carry on his legacy by renaming the lounge Jamie’s Studio.

Bramburger's family watched the game from the newly-named lounge at the Pembroke Memorial Centre. Photo credit: Kendra Mendrisky

The Lumber Kings alumni kicked off the game with a scoring streak, winning the first period 10-2. Teams swapped goalies after the first period, which allowed Algonquin to get back in the game. Ultimately, the Lumber Kings won 15-10.

P.J. Stock, a former Lumber Kings and Boston Bruins player, captained the Lumber Kings alumni team. Shean Donovan, a former Senators player, captained the Algonquin College team.

Donovan currently coaches the Kemptville 73’s, a Junior A team, and loves visiting the Pembroke Memorial Centre.

“I was born in Timmins, but I grew up in Carleton Place and I played for the Ottawa Valley Titans, so we were in here a bunch,” said Donovan. “(It) just brings back memories from when I was younger.”

The two teams posing on the ice for a picture after the Jamie Bramburger Fall Classic. Photo credit: Vasileios Tselios

It was Jerry Novack, the event’s organizer, who had the idea to invite former NHL players to join the cause, which he has done in the past as a retired officer with the OPP.

“We would play alumni like this with one NHL (player) on each team, and I just thought that would be a good way to enhance the night but also bring P.J. in, who played here in Pembroke,” said Novack. “I thought that was a really good fit, and having Shean coming from the Senators.”

Novack is a former teacher at the college and was a friend of Bramburger. He is also the executive director of The Grind Pembroke, a faith-based charity which serves the needs of marginalized, at-risk community members in Pembroke and the surrounding area, according to their website.

He estimates 800 people attended the hockey fundraiser, raising just over $10,000 through ticket sales, sponsorships, a 50/50 draw and the silent auction. The proceeds will be split evenly between The Grind and the Jamie Bramburger Memorial Fund.

“I just thought this would be a great way to recognize Jamie and his legacy,” said Novack. “It was just amazing. It was a special night, a special night for everybody that came out tonight.”

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Men’s basketball: Wolves beat Coyotes 81-70 in Ottawa’s collegiate cross-town rivalry

The Wolves kick off their season with a win after a dominant performance against the La Cité

Jaiden Martin

Photos: Jaiden Martin

October 30, 2025
Revised: October 30, 2025 10:16pm

Photo: Jaiden Martin

Wolves walking back to bench after O Canada, ready to face the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22.

The Wolves men’s basketball team began their season with an 81-70 victory over the La Cité Coyotes at La Cité’s Main Campus Gym to start their season off on the right foot.

The Wolves came out firing on all cylinders, scoring the first basket of the game and taking an early 12-0 lead. Haven Holder dominated the first quarter, scoring six of the first 12 points. He also picked up two rebounds in just six minutes of play.

Haven Holder at the free throw line against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22 in La Cité's main campus gym. — Haven Holder at the free throw line against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22. Photo credit: Jaiden Martin

“I was out all year last year, so I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. I just felt good to get my feet back underneath me, running around, dunk on some people, get some buckets,” said Holder

Facilitating the floor for the Wolves was Shyeem Brown, a returnee from last year’s team, looking to solidify his spot in the rotation this year due to the 12 graduates leaving last year’s roster.

Shyeem Brown at the free throw line against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22 in La Cité's main campus gym — Shyeem Brown at the free throw line against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22. Photo credit: Jaiden Martin

Brown admitted, “It was a shaky game, to be honest. We got a lot of learning to do but we pulled through for the win.”

Entering the second quarter, the Wolves led 25-18 but by the end of the half, the lead had slipped away from the squad. La Cité’s Daniel Ndikumana and Samuel Ilunga put on a shooting clinic during the second quarter.

The duo scored 19 of the Coyotes’ 29 points in the quarter, with Ndikumana scoring 11 points, going 4-5 from the field and 3-4 from three-point range. Ilunga stuffed the stat sheet, going 3-4 from the field, 2-2 from three-point land, with two rebounds and one steal, scoring eight in the quarter.

Going into the half, the Wolves were trailing 47-44.

The second half was dominated by Algonquin’s two big men, Holder and Aydin Gilani. First-year forward Gilani is an Ottawa native and played a major role into the Wolves’ first win of the year.

In the second half was where Gilani really shined, scoring 12 points, going 4-8 from the field, 1-2 from three-point range, eight rebounds, two assists and two steals. His presence was felt on both sides on the floor, finishing the game with 40 minutes played, 21 points, ten rebounds and five assists.

Aydin Gilani at the free throw line against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22 in La Cité's main campus gym. — Aydin Gilani at the free throw line against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22. Photo credit: Jaiden Martin

“I just let it come to me. I always pray for this team’s success and by playing aggressive with high energy, we all play good together,” said Gilani

Coach Trevor Costello also praised Gilani’s game.

“Aydin is a great rookie pickup for us to go 21 (points), ten rebounds, five assists, just great numbers. Forty minutes, haven’t had a rookie ever play 40 minutes for me, and he played 40,” said Costello

Holder used his six foot six-foot-six frame to dominate the defensive side of the floor, grabbing five rebounds in the half. On the offensive side of the ball, the Coyotes couldn’t stop him in the paint, fouling him three times in the half while shooting 3-6 from the line.

“Just leaning into the emotions, I was feeling a lot of emotions being back out there and I kind of channelled that, I tried to let that show on the court,” said Holder.

Coming out of the third quarter, the Wolves had tied the game up at 61. The Wolves took the lead early in the fourth quarter and never gave it back. The Wolves closed out the Coyotes by going on a 12-3 scoring run, extending the lead to nine and finishing the game strong.

Costello was satisfied with the win against the Coyotes, but said there is much more to improve on.

Coach Trevor Costello on the bench against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22, frustrated with one of his players at La Cité's Main Campus Gym. — Coach Trevor Costello on the bench against the La Cité Coyotes on Oct. 22 Photo credit: Jaiden Martin

“It was good. It was nice that we didn’t play great, but we played good enough to get the win,” said Costello.

“We need to improve on everything, defence, offence, everything. We’ve got to run better offence.”

The Wolves take on the Durham Lords at the Jack Doyle Athletic and Recreation Centre at 8 p.m. on Halloween night, looking to advance their record to 2-0 on the season against the OCAA defending champions.

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Fresh pack, same pride: Wolves reload for a new season

New roster, same intensity. The Wolves women’s basketball team is back on the court with fresh faces and familiar grit, and under head coach Jaime McLean, their hunger to win has never been stronger.

Gavin Oregan

Photos: Ellen Bond

October 30, 2025
Revised: October 30, 2025 4:23pm

Photo: Ellen Bond

Algonquin Wolves head coach Jaime McLean speaks to his team during a timeout in an OCAA women’s basketball game at the Jack Doyle Athletics and Recreation Centre.

After graduating 11 players from last year’s Eastern Conference championship roster, the women’s basketball Wolves are reloading with a mix of rookies, transfers and returning veterans. For head coach Jaime McLean, the challenge isn’t just replacing talent, but redefining what Algonquin basketball looks like in 2025.

“We had a lot of new faces, new bodies this year,” McLean said. “The exciting part is some of the transfers and rookies we’ve got in are top-notch kids. The recruits and the athletes that made it through tryouts are all buying in right away to the culture we want, team-first mentality and caring about each other more than ourselves.”

The Wolves are off to a 0-5 start in the pre-season, though McLean said those results don’t reflect the team’s progress. The Wolves have purposely faced tough competition early, including exhibition games against teams in Montreal and a road trip to Buffalo to play two NCAA Division III programs and one NJCAA school, to set a high bar.

“We’re purposely playing those to see the level we need to get to,” McLean said. “We’re a young team, but the goal is to use those experiences to be ready for our home opener on Oct. 31 against Durham.”

New faces, familiar standards

The Wolves’ young roster brings energy and potential, but McLean acknowledged it requires a shift in his coaching approach.

“There is a change in the way I coach,” he said. “I’ve got to remind myself that we’re not building off last season or the one before that. We’ve got some returners who understand what was going on, but we’ve got to catch up the new people even faster.”

That focus on development will be key early in the season. McLean expects his team to hit its stride around mid-season with eyes set on another deep playoff run.

Leading that growth will be fifth-year guard Cianah Miller, a returning OCAA all-star and one of the few veterans from last year’s roster.

“Having somebody like Cianah with that kind of seniority and leadership is invaluable,” McLean said. “She’s been an all-star multiple times. She’s helping her new teammates fill those roles and setting the example for what Algonquin basketball is about.”

The Wolves will also rely on leadership from two familiar faces who’ve joined the coaching staff: Sydney Moore and Dasia McDonald, both former standout players for the program.

“Having Sid and Dasia jump into the coaching staff is so critical,” McLean said. “They have the respect of the athletes right away. The girls that transferred in know them, the rookies watched them play last year, they understand the quality of player and person they are. It’s huge for maintaining our culture.”

Transfers and rookies making an impact

Among the new additions, McLean pointed to fifth-year transfer Taryn Mitchell from Niagara College as a key piece who will help bridge the gap between the returning veterans and younger players.

“She’s going to be really exciting for people to watch this season,” McLean said.

McLean also mentioned that several second-year players who saw limited minutes last year have taken noticeable steps forward, proving the value of last season’s experience competing against a veteran lineup.

Playing with pride, not pressure

Despite the roster overhaul, Algonquin remains a team to beat in the OCAA East — a status that comes with both pride and expectation.

“We’ve had a target on our back for three seasons now,” McLean said. “But with everyone seeing our new roster, they’re saying, ‘Now’s our chance to get Algonquin.’ That target has just gotten even bigger.”

Rather than shy away from that spotlight, McLean said the focus is on embracing it as motivation. The Wolves have brought in a mental performance consultant to help players view the challenge as pride, not pressure.

“We’re trying to push the mentality of taking pride in what we’re doing rather than taking on the pressure,” he said. “We’re a young team, we’ll make mistakes. But if we keep playing with pride and no fear, we’ll find success.”

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Wolves women’s soccer team loses in OCAA quarter-final

A heartbreaking loss means it's the end of the season, but the friendships will continue forever

Nathan Heatherington

Photos: Khealan Adams

October 30, 2025
Revised: October 30, 2025 4:19pm

Photo: Khealan Adams

Alex Aubin catches a pass to attack the goal against the Humber Hawks at the Algonquin College sports field behind Z-building.

The Wolves women’s soccer team lost 2-0 against the Humber Hawks in the OCAA quarter-finals at the Algonquin College sports field on Oct. 18.

After a stellar season, the Wolves posted a heartbreaking loss, failing to move on to the OCAA semifinals. With tears streaming down their faces, the women walked off the field, some for the very last time.

“We ran into a good team that had a really good game,” said head coach Basil Phillips. “I’ve seen (the Hawks) play this year, and I think this is probably one of the best games that they’ve had, which you expect at this time in the season.

“I think we played a little hesitantly in the first half, picked it up in the second half, but we just couldn’t get that one goal that we needed. We just couldn’t get that connection in the final third to make that breakthrough.”

Despite the disappointing end, the team has made great memories and lifelong friendships.

“I think the whole season was a highlight,” said Phillips. “We had a very good, really good group, who just showed up every day, trained hard, put in the effort and bought into everything the coaches were giving.”

Wolves women's soccer team saying their cheer before the match begins at the Algonquin College sports field behind Z building — Wolves women's soccer team saying their cheer before the match begins at the Algonquin College sports field behind Z-building. Photo credit: Khealan Adams

Phillips said a trip to Toronto in early October set the tone for the rest of the Wolves’ regular season.

“I think one of the big turning points in our year was the Seneca-Centenial weekend away, where we lost that one game, but we regrouped, recovered and came back to win the second game with a great effort. It was also a great accomplishment in the regular season, going 9-1,” said Phillips.

After playing their last game with the Wolves, goalie Paige King and captain Samantha Jones highlighted the positive aspects of the season.

“This season was very special, especially knowing that your last season is hard, but also motivating to (strive to) be better and to be accountable to everyone else,” said King.

“I (expletive) love every one of these girls. We’re a family and that’s not going to change next year. We will just be cheering them on from the sidelines. I’m going to be the Wolves’ biggest fan.”

Jones, who was sidelined for part of the season due to injuries, also reflected on the bonds the team formed.

“It was an absolute pleasure (playing with this team). There is so much talent with this team, such good chemistry on and off the field. We love to be around each other so it was a joy to come to practice everyday and just be around these girls,” said Jones.

Even though they didn’t go all the way this year, Phillips, King and Jones all agree that the Wolves will be a team to watch next year, with a strong group of returning players.

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Nathan Heatherington

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Graduating players bring basketball expertise to the Wolves’ coaching staff

Dasia McDonald and Sydney Moore, standouts in the 2024-2025 season, rejoin the team as assistant coaches

Lara Simard

Photos: Lara Simard

October 30, 2025
Revised: November 11, 2025 9:41pm

Photo: Lara Simard

Dasia McDonald and Cianah Miller (right) shake hands with George Thomas (left), head coach of the Centennial Colts, after a varsity game on Jan. 11.

Dasia McDonald’s commitment to basketball is taking her from the court to the sidelines as one of two former players helping to coach the Wolves women’s team this season with head coach Jaime McLean and assistant coach Nour Abdullah.

McDonald played as a point guard for the Algonquin Wolves for four years. Now, she is stepping onto the court with a new kind of authority.

McDonald was promoted to assistant coach this season. Joining her on the coaching staff is Sydney Moore, who played for five years as a guard for the Wolves.

Inspired by McDonald and Moore’s dedication to the team, strong game analysis and empowering leadership qualities, McLean asked them to join the coaching staff this year.

“They are exceptional leaders and young women who will be very impactful on the next generation of Wolves,” McLean wrote in an email to the Times.

McLean said the two used to joke they would join the coaching staff after graduating from college. He was determined to make that dream a reality.

Last season McDonald ranked No. 1 in the Ontario Colleges Athlete Association (OCAA) stats package for assists at 70, steals at 65 and three-point shooting percentage at 40. She also averaged 5.8 rebounds per game.

Her overall shooting average of 55.1 per cent placed her second and she was fourth in points-per-game average at 16.4.

“I always wanted to be a coach and wanted to get more experience. So having this chance to coach with Jaime, along with Syd and Nour, was an amazing opportunity,” McDonald said.

Growing up, McDonald played on several teams, from the Nepean Blue Devils to her high school team at St. Mother Teresa, and then as point guard for the Algonquin Wolves. She credits the many coaches who have been role models as she steps into her new position as assistant coach. Her mission is to inspire other young athletes to reach their full potential.

“As much as it’s weird coaching them, I still want to give as much feedback as I can. They’re amazing girls, and they all listen to constructive criticism. That’s what we keep doing. We all want the same goal at the end of the day,” she said.

This year, about 11 players graduated from the college and left the team to pursue full-time careers. McDonald said she was saddened by the loss of key players and close friends but proud of what the team accomplished in remaining undefeated for the past three regular seasons.

McDonald, Moore and the rest of the Wolves team celebrate victory over the Centennial Colts on Jan. 11, 2025 Photo credit: Lara Simard

She’s excited for her peers as they move into new stages of life and is hopeful the new team will thrive this season as long as players stay motivated and don’t succumb to pressure.

“It was an emotional year, but we grew so much, not just as players but individually,” McDonald said.

“We have nurses now, doctors, nursing licences — everyone’s starting their career. So having that bond over basketball was amazing.”

Moore played as a guard for the Wolves for four years. She played for McLean during her club season at Arnprior District High School before enrolling at Algonquin.

“When I was approaching my fifth year, when I was going to graduate, I told Jaime I wanted to come back because I love the culture, I love basketball. I wanted to stay involved in basketball in some way for the rest of my life,” Moore said.

“That was always the plan for me. I started coaching when I was young, back in my hometown with kids under age 10 and then kind of moved up from there,” she said.

Like McDonald, Moore is also saddened by the loss of players since many have graduated. It’s the first time, she said, the team has had that many graduating students since she joined. Despite the change, she’s enjoyed seeing new faces and is excited to train the team’s new recruits.

Former players Piper Hatherall (left), Libby Hirst and Sydney Moore (right), take defensive positions during a game against Centennial Colts on Jan. 11, 2025 Photo credit: Lara Simard

“All of the girls are great. They’re all willing to learn and eager to play, which I think is really important. It’s one thing to have good basketball players. It’s also about having good people, building that culture and being role models for others in the community.”

Moore appreciated the team’s strong morale most during her time as a player. As a coach, she hopes to exude the same positive, team-spirited environment she experienced.

During her first two years on the team, assistant coaches Elizabeth Roach and Abeer Farat often took time to recognize Moore’s strengths and weaknesses as a player and gave her advice on how to hone her skills and become an asset on the court.

“I’ve tried to channel a little bit of the coaches (Roach and Farat) in that sense, to bring to the girls this year, just communicating with them the way I appreciated having someone communicate with me,” she said.

In addition to her assistant coaching role, Moore works as an ER nurse. She balances shift work with part-time coaching and said she’s grateful to have McDonald by her side to take over when she needs time to adjust. The two have been close friends for years and will make a powerful team this season.

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The sting of defeat: Men’s soccer Wolves fall to Seneca in bronze medal game

The Wolves' captain reflects on the game and the end of his four-year journey with the team

Mickey Banks

Photos: Mickey Banks

October 30, 2025
Revised: October 30, 2025 9:56am

Photo: Mickey Banks

The Algonquin Wolves lost 2-0 to the Seneca Sting in the bronze medal game at home on Sunday.

The Algonquin Wolves men’s soccer team lost 2-0 to the Seneca Sting at home Oct. 26 to finish fourth in the OCAA playoffs.

While the Wolves could not find the back of net during this game, it wasn’t for a lack of trying as they recorded 17 shots on net, compared to the Sting, who had seven.

“I think we had a couple of chances that we could have definitely put away,” Wolves captain Cristian Aviles-Molina said.

The two goals for the Sting came from Lucas Basmadjian at the 28th minute and Michael Pellegrini at the 79th minute, but the Wolves kept pressing to the end.

“Not once did we think we were out of it,” Aviles-Molina said. “Even when we went two-nil down, we were still trying to get something out of it.”

Toward the end of the game, star Wolves player Alessandro Vivolo rolled his ankle.

Wolves star, Alessandro Vivolo shoots the ball just wide of the net. — Wolves star Alessandro Vivolo shoots the ball just wide of the net. Photo credit: Mickey Banks

“The extent of the injury is unknown, but it is most likely sprained,” head coach Angus Wong said in an email statement.

Sting head coach Michael Aquino said they knew facing Algonquin would be difficult, especially on their home turf.

“We knew that they would come with some good spirit, and we had to match that and just refocus after a tough one yesterday,” Aquino said. “To understand that there’s obviously still something to play for and we wanted to finish with a memorable experience and a medal, which we did.”

It was a disappointing weekend for the Wolves, with back to back losses to Conestoga and Seneca. Photo credit: Mickey Banks

The Sting lost 3-0 in the semifinal on Oct. 25 to the Humber Hawks.

Following the bronze medal game, the Conestoga Condors, who defeated the Wolves 3-2 on Oct. 25, won the gold medal, beating the Hawks 2-0.

It was announced during the gold medal ceremony that both the Condors and the Hawks are heading to the CCAA championships in Saint-Lambert, Que. scheduled for Nov. 5 to Nov. 8.

The Condors spot was guaranteed after winning the gold and the Hawks will get a wild card spot.

For the Wolves, however, it was the last game of the season and the end of the line for their graduating players.

Wong said this was the most disappointing part of the game’s outcome.

“I’m disappointed for them the most because they contributed a lot to this program in their time here,” Wong said. “I think they deserve to go out with more success than what we had at this championship.”

Aviles-Molina is one student who won’t be back with the team. Despite the loss, he’s grateful for his time playing at Algonquin.

“(It) brought a lot of love back into the game for me,” Aviles-Molina said. “I’m thankful for Angus for believing in me these past four years as well, thankful for my teammates that I’ve had. You know, I’ve been through a lot, a lot of roller coasters, a lot of wins, a lot of losses, but it was a good journey, it was a good time.”

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Listen: Algonquin Times podcast

Fall 2025, Episode 2: Times journalist Duncan Roi joins hosts William Barritt and Scott Crowell to discuss his reporting on a broken Nepean clocktower ticking to life, and Mickey Banks has the top headlines

William Barritt

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October 29, 2025
Revised: October 29, 2025 4:32pm

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The Beatles crawl into Algonquin College with a little ‘HELP!’ from tribute band

A packed crowd at Algonquin Commons Theatre showed that Beatles music still bridges fans of all ages

William Barritt

Photos: William Barritt

October 28, 2025
Revised: October 28, 2025 9:14am

Photo: William Barritt

Pascal Tirapani and Ronald Stutz share the spotlight in a close-up moment on stage, channeling Paul McCartney and George Harrison during a dynamic duet.

It’s been six decades since Beatlemania swept the world, but the music still refuses to age. Fans packed into the Algonquin Commons Theatre on Oct. 17 as tribute band HELP! brought that same electric energy with a night of classic hits.

In the crowd was longtime Beatles fan Frank Smith, singing along to nearly every song. For him, the magic hasn’t faded.

“I think the music of The Beatles still resonates because the melodies are just so strong,” Smith said. “There was a real strength to their song writing. They’ve lived on for 50 years and are just as popular as ever.”

A man with short hair stands outside the Algonquin Commons Theatre, looking relaxed after answering questions. — Frank Smith stands outside the Algonquin Commons Theatre after answering a few questions about the evening’s performance. Photo credit: William Barritt

HELP! played familiar hits with deeper classics, recreating the sound that shaped a generation. For some of the musicians, that connection started young and never really faded.

Crowd favourites like Twist and Shout, I Want to Hold Your Hand and Hey Jude had the audience singing and dancing with every song, proving that Beatlemania never really faded.

Norman Di Blasio, who plays as John Lennon, said his fascination began after hearing a classic tune for the first time.

“When I was six years old, I heard Twist and Shout and was just enamoured by it,” Di Blasio said. “They had real character.”

He later rediscovered the band, and even after all these years he’s still finding new things in their music.

According to his bandmate Pascal Tirapani, who plays as Paul McCartney, that lasting freshness is part of what makes The Beatles’ music timeless.

“They weren’t sounding like the bands in that era, which is a big part of why they don’t sound dated today,” Tirapani said.

Close-up of two musicians on stage. The left-handed bassist and lead guitarist play side by side, focused on their instruments during a duet. — Pascal Tirapani and Ronald Stutz share the spotlight in a close-up moment on stage, channeling Paul McCartney and George Harrison during a dynamic duet. Photo credit: William Barritt

He’s not the only one who feels that connection. In the crowd, fans of all ages were just as passionate.

For Pearce Holm, who first heard The Beatles on the radio decades ago, it’s not surprising that younger fans are still showing up.

“I’ve been a fan of them before most people around here were even born,” Holm said. “Even though they’re not in their heyday, their music is still rocking crowds better than ever.”

A woman and a man stand side by side outside the Algonquin Commons Theatre, smiling after completing an interview. — Mary and Pearce Holm pose together outside the Algonquin Commons Theatre following their interview about the show. Photo credit: William Barritt

As the final notes echoed through the theatre, the crowd stayed on its feet. It wasn’t just nostalgia. It was proof that good music still finds a way to connect every generation in the room.

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The Wolves men’s basketball team heads into the 2025-2026 season as a brand new squad

Can the Wolves do better than last season's OCAA quarter-final elimination with only seven returning players?

Jaiden Martin

Photos: Jaiden Martin

October 27, 2025
Revised: October 27, 2025 2:41pm

Photo: Jaiden Martin

Coach Trevor Costello watching practice from half court.

The Wolves enter the 2025-26 season after 12 veterans graduated last year. With only seven players returning, the door opens for rookies and returnees to step up and contribute this season.

Albert Opena is one of the guys coach Trevor Costello would like to step up this year. He consistently played in last year’s rotation and is the only returnee who had floor time, which led to him playing professionally this year in the Vietnam Basketball Association.

Unfortunately, Opena is ineligible to play the first three games of the season, but is confident he’ll lead the roster once he is out on the floor. It’s unknown why Opena is ineligible, but it could be due to his pro stint in the VBA.

Albert Opena on a stationary bike at the Jack Doyle Athletic and Recreation Centre due to his ineligibility on Oct. 20. — Albert Opena on a stationary bike during practice. Photo credit: Jaiden Martin

“I haven’t really thought about anything specific. I just want to play my game, see if I actually did get better or if it’ll translate over here,” said Opena.

Opena talked about how the OCAA is a more well-rounded league compared to the VBA, but it is still good basketball. He said there is a slight size and skill difference in the OCAA, which will take a bit of adjusting, but he is confident in his craft.

Costello is hopeful going into this season after an underwhelming pre-season to start, going 1-5 against some universities and colleges in Quebec and Ontario.

“We won one and lost five, but two of them were the top-quality university teams. It’s the new guys, a couple of guys that are back, didn’t really see time last year, so it’s like they’re basically rookies,” said Costello.

The Wolves lost their top scorer last year, Tesloch Luk to the University of Ottawa after he was top three in the OCAA points per game last season. On top of that, the Wolves’ all-time leading scorer, Simon Desta, graduated, leaving very large shoes to fill for the Wolves this season.

“Those are tough gaps. Never mind them. Can’t forget Teddy, can’t forget Chris. I can’t forget Jansen. You can’t forget those others who were also contributing,” Costello said.

Those three were key to Costello’s core of the Wolves roster. Compared to years prior, the Wolves were a very deep roster, which allowed guys like Ted Braden, Chris Lachapelle, and Jansen Balmaceda to be a great supporting cast to the main scoring. Even though those guys may not have been putting the ball in the basket as much as others, they all started at least 17 games to help the Wolves succeed.

“They were just as important, and all those guys add up to over 90 per cent of our scoring gone.  So we have to somehow replace that, that’s going to be tough.”

One person trying to fill those shoes is Farouk Meguader, also known as themoroccanmamba on Instagram with 127,000 followers. He is known on social media for his trick shots and creative “streetball” content, and he’s now looking to transition his game to the college level.

“I always wanted to come back and play some collegiate-level basketball. Finally got the opportunity, got some time off from my businesses, decided to come back,” said Meguader.

Farouk Meguader tying his shoes at the Jack Doyle athletic and recreation centre on Oct. 20. — Farouk Meguader tying his shoes. Photo credit: Jaiden Martin

He is looking to compete and establish himself in the OCAA before trying any trick-shotting stunts. “Trevor said if we’re up 30, he’ll let me, we’ll see,” said Meguader.

He also runs a recreational basketball league in Ottawa named The Mamba Rec League, one of the most popular leagues across the city for recreational basketball players. The league offers highlight videos for social media, personalized NBA retro-style game jerseys and multiple divisions for everyone to enjoy.

The Wolves ended up beating the La Cite Coyotes on Oct. 22, 81-70, in Coyote territory. The cross-city rivalry is a game that most players look forward to as they compete for bragging rights during off-season runs across the city. With the Wolves up 1-0 in the regular season series, the Coyotes will look to tie it up on Jan. 14 at the Jack Doyle Athletic and Recreation Centre.

It’s a matchup Costello loves every year.

“It’s going to be a good game, but it’s going to be a battle,” said Costello. “It’s going to be two teams that are fighting for playoff spots for sure, and it’s early in the season, and it’s always La Cité, so it’s going to be a battle.”

The Wolves are scheduled to face Durham College in their home opener on Oct. 31 at 8 p.m.

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Jaiden Martin

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Jaiden Martin

From letters to logins, students’ relationship with mail is evolving

Some students may use direct mail for crafty purposes, others not at all. But direct mail is also seen as a unique marketing strategy.

Janella Milord Ashford

Photos: Janella Milord Ashford

October 24, 2025
Revised: October 24, 2025 4:46pm

Photo: Janella Milord Ashford

A student opening a Canada Post deposit box in College Square.

Physical mail is still a valuable service that’s a solid, secure and reliable form of communication to send and receive cards and gifts, according to some Algonquin College community members.

Although he admits to not using it much, Darian Cassidy, 19, a music industry arts student, believes mail is still important for people his age, from handling important documents or ordering online, which he says is a popular way to shop.

“I always received letters from my grandparents around holiday times or important dates in the family, such as birthdays. Now, I receive packages in the mail from online purchases, along with receiving important documents such as my passport,” says Cassidy.

The union representing Canada Post mail carriers have been in a labour dispute with the organization. Mail delivery has slowed down across the country as the union rolls out rotating strikes.

When it comes to mail, certain people appreciate this personal aspect it can offer. Others love the creative side it can bring out.

“I think it could be fun to use letters in an artistic and collage sense, but if I wanted to communicate with someone, I would just use digital communication,” says Cassidy.

Mailing has become very intimate and serves more as a sense of gratification, like a little treat waiting for you in the mailbox as you walk inside your house.

“I do love the feeling of getting to open a letter or package in my hands, but I definitely prefer having something digitally to keep it organized,” says music and media foundations student Maryn McMann.

An online survey conducted in 2022 by EKOS research indicated 76 per cent of Canadians send parcels or personal letters, but only do so a few times a year.

Many students are not affected by the Canada Post strike as they don't use postal services or tend to other couriers like Fedex or UPS. — Many students say they are not affected by the Canada Post strike because they don't use postal services or tend to other couriers like Fedex or UPS for online orders. Photo credit: Janella Milord Ashford

Canada Post’s 2024 annual report says mail volumes were two billion pieces that year, compared to 5.5 billion pieces in 2006.

As Canada Post workers are back on rotating strikes following the announcement of major cuts within the company, couriers like Purolator and FedEx say plans are in place to take up higher volumes of mail during the Canada Post strike.

Many students online shop often because what they need is not always available in local stores, something they say keeps mail services relevant.

“I do believe that for important communication, digital communication has replaced mail for students. Every person I know uses digital communication to talk with each other,” says Cassidy. “On the other hand, I received equipment through the mail which saved me hours of commute time and a free shipping deal due to the high cost, so mail is still important for students.”

Sports business management student Tyler Beauchesne does not even think about using the mailbox.

“I would be more likely to use mail if servers crashed,” says Beauchesne.

The ease and simplicity of technology and social media has definitely set a tone in the way younger people live and communicate.

“I think mailing is an important thing to understand, but I can say that I favour technology for delivery rather than paper, just for the sense of convenience with organizing all my information in one spot,” says McMann.

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