Listowel, Ont- The Listowel Cyclones delivered a commanding 5–1 victory over the Sarnia Legionnaires on Friday night at the Steve Kerr Memorial Arena in what proved to be one of the most meaningful evenings of the season.
Prior to the 7:30 p.m. puck drop, the organization officially unveiled its new team mascot, bringing energy and excitement to a packed home crowd. The celebration, however, was paired with heartfelt remembrance as the Cyclones and community honoured the events of February 28, 1959.
On that morning at approximately 9:27 a.m., tragedy struck during a peewee hockey practice at the former Listowel Arena when the roof and walls of the rink collapsed. Seven young players and one adult lost their lives, while thirteen others were injured. The legacy of that day remains forever woven into the fabric of Listowel hockey — a solemn reminder of resilience, unity, and the unbreakable bond within the community.
First Period
The Cyclones wasted little time establishing momentum. Hudson Wiles opened the scoring, finishing a strong sequence assisted by Keaton Middleton to give Listowel an early 1–0 advantage.
Second Period
Listowel took full control in the middle frame.
Jordan Visneskie recorded his 20th goal of the season on the power play, assisted by Aiden Renaud, doubling the Cyclones’ lead. Dylan Szymanowski followed with a goal of his own, assisted by Colton Henderson.
At 9:15, Bradley Wilhelm added a shorthanded marker, set up by Visneskie and Jack O’Donnell, highlighting Listowel’s dominance on special teams. Clark DeBoer rounded out the scoring for the Cyclones with a goal assisted by O’Donnell and Cameron Beisel.
Third Period
Sarnia managed to break through for a single goal, but the Cyclones remained firmly in control, skating to a decisive 5–1 victory.
Ethan Kowatsch was outstanding between the pipes, turning aside 27 shots to secure the win.
Cyclones 5 – Legionnaires 1
Lincolns 5 – Cyclones 3
Saturday Night | St. Marys, Ontario
The Cyclones returned to action Saturday in the “Battle of Perth County,” traveling to face the rival St. Marys Lincolns.
First Period
The Lincolns struck early, building a 2–0 lead. Lyndon Cabral responded for Listowel, assisted by Visneskie, cutting the deficit in half. Colton Henderson then found the back of the net, assisted by Dylan Szymanowski and Trenton Harris, evening the contest at 2–2.
St. Marys added a late tally to close the opening period ahead 3–2.
Second Period
Keaton Middleton scored unassisted to tie the game 3–3 heading into the third period, setting up a dramatic final frame.
Third Period
The Lincolns capitalized on key opportunities, scoring twice in the third to secure a 5–3 victory.
Jack Bree was sharp in goal for the Cyclones, making 38 saves in a strong performance despite the result.
Season Finale Week
With the playoff picture now decided, the Cyclones will close out the 2025–26 season this week.
On Wednesday, Listowel travels to face the LaSalle Vipers in a 7:00 p.m. matchup available on FloHockey.
The Cyclones then return home Friday night for their final game of the season at 7:30 p.m., welcoming the St. Thomas Stars to the Steve Kerr Memorial Arena.
While the Cyclones will not be advancing to postseason play this year, the organization remains proud of the growth, character, and compete level displayed throughout the season. From emotional nights of remembrance to hard-fought battles on the ice, this group has represented Listowel with pride.
As the final week unfolds, the Cyclones look to finish strong — for the crest, for the community, and for the legacy that continues to inspire hockey in Listowel.
— Listowel Cyclones Hockey Club
