Prep Hockey Conference Showcase Preview
La Brier Arena Set for a High-Calibre Weekend
The Prep Hockey Conference returns to Aurora, Ontario this weekend, where St. Andrew’s College will host its annual PHC Showcase at the La Brier Family Arena. The event marks one of the early highlights of the prep season, bringing together elite programs from both the PHC East and PHC West for a weekend of high-tempo, competitive hockey.
PHC East Outlook
The South Kent School Cardinals (2-1-1) have been the story of the early season, sitting atop the East Division behind a potent offence that has already produced 15 goals in four games. Forwards Stepan Rezvyi (8 pts) and Maksims Saperins (5 pts) have been electric, driving a balanced attack that overwhelmed Northwood early and traded goals with Mount St. Charles in an exciting split series. South Kent’s depth has shown through as well, with contributions from Blake Kiley-Ram and Santino Pedulla keeping the group rolling despite tough matchups.
Just behind them, Mount St. Charles Academy (1-1-0) has found its stride through consistent execution and structured play. Forward Tristan Hagerman has been their sparkplug, tallying four points and providing key leadership for a squad that bounced back from an opening loss to edge South Kent 4-3. Goaltender Roberts Kravālis has been steady with a .912 save percentage, giving the Saints confidence between the pipes.
The Northwood School Huskies (1-1-0) round out the East, having split a two-game set with South Kent that featured both defensive structure and offensive creativity. Zack Klaich and Charles Pigeon have been early bright spots, combining for timely goals in a thrilling overtime win. With Owen MacLean providing experience in goal, Northwood has the potential to climb quickly as its young roster continues to gel.
PHC West Outlook
In the West, the defending champion St. Andrew’s College Saints return home with momentum to prove. The Saints (0-1-1) opened the season with two tightly contested battles against powerhouse Shattuck St. Mary’s, including a 1-1 draw and a 4-2 loss that could’ve gone either way. Despite the results, St. Andrew’s displayed the depth, pace, and structure that carried them to last season’s PHC title. Forward Nolan Long and defenseman Finn Kearns have emerged as early standouts, providing stability and leadership for a group eager to defend their crown in front of the home crowd at La Brier.
Meanwhile, Shattuck St. Mary’s Sabres (1-0-1) continue to look every bit the contender they always are. Davis Damrow led the way with a two-goal performance in the season opener. At the same time, goaltender Michael Iliff has been stellar early, posting a 1.00 GAA and .971 save percentage. The Sabres’ signature discipline and balance once again make them a tough opponent in every zone.
The Culver Academies Eagles enter the showcase ready for their PHC season debut. Known for their physicality and puck-possession focus, Culver will look to make an early impression and shake up the West standings.
Showcase Expectations
With every team now settling into rhythm, the La Brier Showcase is shaping up to be a marquee weekend of prep hockey. South Kent’s offensive firepower, Shattuck’s proven structure, and St. Andrew’s championship pedigree combine to promise a weekend full of intensity, skill, and pride. For scouts, families, and fans, it’s a can’t-miss opportunity to watch some of the top prep talent in North America compete at one of Canada’s premier venues.
