Ahead of the Greater Toronto Hockey League’s 2026 Under-18 All-Star Festival fuelled by Gatorade on Saturday, January 24 at Scotiabank Pond, the ‘AA’ All-Stars reflected on their minor hockey journeys. The U18 ‘AA’ All-Star Game is set for January 24 at 1:00 p.m., and admission to the festival, including all games, is free.
U18 ‘AA’ ALL-STARS: TEAM BLUE
#31 – G, ALEXANDER RONIOTIS (Duffield Devils)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Over the years, I have a number of wonderful memories and experiences that I will never forget but nothing can replace the amazing friends I have made.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me over the years by taking me to all of my games, practices, and training.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Enjoy the ride because time flies! Do not take time for granted. Work hard and play even harder!
#38 – G, HUNTER BEAULIEU (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Florida Tournament was probably one of my favourite memories. Travelling to the United States to play against different divisions of hockey with my friends and teammates was a memory I will never forget.
Who would you like to thank? My parents and coaches for getting me to where I am today, especially my dad for never missing a game and always being my biggest fan!
What advice do you have for the next generation? When things get hard, don’t quit — find a new angle.
#50 – G, VICTOR WILLIAMS (Streetsville Tigers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory was a tournament in Ottawa with the Meadowvale Hawks [U11] ‘A’ team. I recorded four consecutive shutouts during the tournament, and we advanced all the way to the finals. Although we ultimately lost the championship game, the experience was unforgettable — not just because of our on-ice success, but because of the time spent with my teammates exploring Ottawa, and building lasting friendships. That tournament showed me the importance of teamwork and resilience, making it one of the most meaningful moments of my minor hockey career.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my coaches and my parents for their constant support throughout my hockey journey. My coaches from both Meadowvale and Streetsville pushed me to improve not only as a player but also as a leader. My goalie coach, Bill Hoover, challenged me to be my best. My parents supported me through early mornings, long drives, and tough losses, always encouraging me to keep improving. Their dedication and encouragement played a major role in shaping my work ethic and love for the game.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Enjoy the journey and appreciate the small moments along the way. Focus on being a good teammate by bringing a positive attitude every day. Stay coachable by listening and asking questions, work hard every day even if results aren’t immediate. Remember that the lessons hockey teaches you off the ice are just as valuable as what you learn on the ice.
#8 – D, CHRISTIAN DI MATTEO (Duffield Devils)
Favourite minor hockey memory: One of my favourite minor hockey memories was in 2025, winning the Vaughan Regional Silver Stick with the Duffield Devils.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for getting me into hockey, which created so many great friends and memories. Their encouragement and support meant everything to me. Also, thank you to all of my coaches for pushing me to work hard and become a better player.
What advice do you have for the next generation? My advice for the next generation is to enjoy every moment you have and to work hard every day, because those memories you create will last you a lifetime.
#66 – D, NICOLAS LEMEIUX (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Going undefeated with the ‘A’ Port Credit Storm — an unforgettable season.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my first coach, Phil, for believing in me and pushing me to be better.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Believe in yourself. Do the little things right, stay reliable, and let your consistency speak for you.
#78 – D, TOMMY VANDERVAART (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing an outdoor game in a hockey tournament in Buffalo.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank all of my coaches over the years. I would also like to thank my parents for always supporting my love of hockey.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Don’t be afraid of change and look for a team environment that is best for you.
#65 – D, CHRIS CARAVASILIS (North Toronto)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My U15 playoff run. We battled back from five points down to a Game 7 overtime win in the third round of the playoffs. The perseverance and hard work of every player and the way we played for each other was very exciting.
Who would you like to thank? I want to thank my parents. They introduced me to hockey, drove me around the province, and have always supported me, encouraging me to work hard and keep striving to be the best I can be.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Fall in love with the work, not just the results. Goals, wins, and trophies come and go. What lasts is how much effort you put into practice, training, and improving every day.
#18 – D, LUCA TOTEDA (Streetsville Tigers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory is scoring my first goal. I remember skating down the ice, driving to the net, and putting the puck in. The feeling of scoring for the first time is something I’ll never forget.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my parents for everything they’ve done for me over the years. From the countless hours driving me to practices and games to the constant support along the way, I’m extremely grateful for everything they’ve done for me.
What advice do you have for the next generation? My advice for the next generation is to work hard and enjoy the process. There will be ups and downs, but if you keep giving your best effort and putting in the work, you’ll have fun and see the results.
#4 – D, J.J. HARRISON (Vaughan Rangers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning our Pittsburgh away tournament my first year with the Vaughan Rangers.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my parents and coaches I’ve had along the way.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Make sure hockey stays fun.
#66 – C, MATTHEW ROTTER (Duffield Devils)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Being made captain of my Don Mills Flyers team.
Who would you like to thank? Thanks to all of the coaches that believed in me over the years, with special thanks to Nathaniel Brooks.
What advice do you have for the next generation? My advice to the new generation is to be true to yourself and the game of hockey.
#92 – F, LEANDRO PEREIRA (Duffield Devils)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Regional Finals Silver Stick game winner.
Who would you like to thank? Kyle Callaghan for turning me into the player I am today.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Work hard, don’t give up on your dream.
#13 – C, DANIEL BORSELLINO (Duffield Devils)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite hockey memory is when my team won the Richmond Hill Tournament my U16 year and I scored the overtime winner in the final to bring home our first big tournament win.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for all of the sacrifices they made to bring me to early morning practices, late night games, and for pushing me to put in the hard work, making me become the player I am today.
What advice do you have for the next generation? My advice to the next generation would be to keep your head in the moment and enjoy your minor hockey seasons to the fullest because they fly by way quicker than expected.
#67 – LW, DANIELE INFANTI (Duffield Devils)
Favourite minor hockey memory: First game in ‘AA’.
Who would you like to thank? My parents for their support and sacrifices throughout my hockey journey.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Work hard everyday, trust yourself, and don’t be afraid to take risks.
#98 – RW, TYLER SPRAH (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing mini-sticks with the team at any away tournament.
Who would you like to thank? Mom and Dad for always pushing me to my fullest and making sure I’m always the best I can be.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Don’t take anything for granted and cherish all of the moments with your friends throughout your young years of hockey.
#17 – LW, MASON LINHARES (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: International Silver Stick.
Who would you like to thank? My dad.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Enjoy minor hockey while it lasts.
#88 – LW, LUC BELLEC (North Toronto)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Getting the game winning goal in the Vaughan House League Championship game in 2015-16.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank all of the GTHL coaches that helped me be a better person and player. A special thank you to my high school hockey coach. Thank you to Joe Venuto, Trish, and Colton Kalezic of Impact Elite Hockey.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Enjoy every moment, give it 100%. At the end of the day, win or lose, make sure that you are always having fun.
#44 – C, MILAN KARANDI (North Toronto)
Favourite minor hockey memory: When I won the championship in U14; that was my first championship that we had ever won as a team with my friends. It was a really good experience.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my coaches and people who shaped my future as a player and as a person. Also my family who supported me throughout my [minor hockey] career and have always been there to help me in every way.
What advice do you have for the next generation? I would say control what you can — your effort, your attitude, and your commitment to the sport, and the rest will take care of itself.
#23 – F, BRAEDEN WOODFINE (Streetsville Tigers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite memories are of bus rides and tournaments with my teammates.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my coaches, my teammates, my parents, my family, and my dog, Nala.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Always work hard and never give up.
#90 – C, GIANMICHAEL ATZORI (Vaughan Rangers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My first hat trick.
Who would you like to thank? My mother, father, and all of my coaches.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Head high, work hard, and always train.
#27 – RW, JACKSON MCKNIGHT (Vaughan Rangers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the Gene Harrington Outdoor Classic tournament with the Vaughan Rangers.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my parents, coaches, and teammates over the years.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Hockey goes by fast, so focus on improving every day and appreciating the friendships and lessons that come with it.
U18 ‘AA’ ALL-STARS: TEAM RED
#1 – G, STEFANO DODARO (Leaside Flames)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing net for the first time and getting torched for 14.
Who would you like to thank? My mother and father.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Have fun. Be a goldfish. Be a good teammate.
#31 – G, MATTHEW WARYCH (Mississauga Beast)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning GTHL U17 ‘AA’ League and Playoff Championships.
Who would you like to thank? My mom and dad for supporting me throughout my whole minor hockey career.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Never give up, always give it your all and remember to have fun!
#37 – G, QUINN CHARLES (Ted Reeve Thunder)
Favourite minor hockey memory: When I was around 10 years old, I played on a team [where] we lost most of our games. Finally, we won a tournament and I remember they had a Stanley Cup that as the goalie I was the first to hold. I remember barely being able to raise the cup as it was too heavy for a little me. This memory brings back the feeling of joy and freedom I love about playing hockey.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my dad for always supporting and being there for me throughout my hockey journey. He has always been there to help out, drive me to everything, and guide me when able. Without his presence, I do not know where I would be as he has played such a substantial role in my career.
What advice do you have for the next generation? To the next generation, I would say to believe in yourself and take chances. Don’t be the thing that inhibits your ability to progress and grow in hockey and in life.
#37 – D, HUDSON PEARCE (Leaside Flames)
Favourite minor hockey memory: When I went to OHFs after my team won the GTHL in my [U11] year.
Who would you like to thank? My parents for everything they put in to make my hockey experience memorable.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Have fun – it goes by quicker than you think.
#27 – D, JACKSON SINE (Leaside Flames)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Warming up and messing around with the boys before games.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank all of my coaches throughout the years, as well as my parents for all the time and resources they put into my hockey.
What advice do you have for the next generation? You’ll play better if you’re having a good time.
#77 – D, CHRISTIAN GRIMA (Mississauga Beast)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing in outdoor tournaments.
Who would you like to thank? Nick Grima.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Stay consistent and try your best.
#43 – D, GORDON WEBSTER (Ted Reeve Thunder)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing in between the second and third period at a Toronto Maple Leafs game as one of the little kids.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my dad for always supporting me, making all those long drives to far away arenas, and for volunteering any chance he got to help me along the way.
What advice do you have for the next generation? The hard work you put in at the start, pays off at the end.
#95 – D, RILEY FEDORCHUK (Ted Reeve Thunder)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory is winning the International Silver Stick tournament in Sarnia right before the pandemic.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my mom, of course, and all of my coaches throughout the years.
What advice do you have for the next generation? My advice for the next generation is to work hard, but have fun above all else.
#3 – D, KAELEN BUREK (Vaughan Panthers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Going to tournaments and spending time bonding with the team and friends, and getting to know teammates better.
Who would you like to thank? My family, but specifically my dad, for all of the time he spent seeing me through my hockey career.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Have fun and enjoy every opportunity because the time goes fast. Volunteer and help the next generation of players.
#29 – RW, REMI KISHK (Leaside Flames)
Favourite minor hockey memory: All of the away tournaments.
Who would you like to thank? My parents for all of the time and effort they’ve put into giving me the opportunity to play hockey.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Have fun because it goes by quick.
#10 – C, FINN GREENHOUSE (Leaside Flames)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite memory is when my team (Ted Reeve) dropped the puck for the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens season opener at Scotiabank Arena.
Who would you like to thank? My parents for driving me to a million practices and games, and cheering me on from the stands.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Playing hockey is more than just a game — it’s also about being part of a team, great friends, and community.
#9 – C, CHRISTIAN PYE (Mississauga Beast)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the 2024-25 U17 ‘AA’ GTHL Playoffs.
Who would you like to thank? My family, coaches, and teammates.
What advice do you have for the next generation? I would do a lot to be at the start of my minor hockey career again, so enjoy it while it lasts.
#21 – RW, MARCO MAFFEI (Mississauga Beast)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the International Silver Stick tournament.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my mom and dad for supporting my long hockey journey.
What advice do you have for the next generation? My advice for the younger generation would be to work hard, stay humble, and never forget to love the game.
#19 – C, ROSS MCDOUGALL (Mississauga Beast)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning my first GTHL championship in U16 with the Mississauga Beast.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank all of my coaches over the years of minor hockey for helping me develop into the player I am today. Most importantly, I would like to thank my parents. Thank you dad for always pushing me to the best of my abilities and always believing in me. Thank you for all the time and money you’ve put into helping me develop as a player, and as a man. Thank you mom for always being there at every game and driving me to those early morning practices and games, and for your constant support and love.
What advice do you have for the next generation? My advice would be to have fun. No matter how big the game is, hockey should always be fun and that doesn’t mean games don’t matter or that you shouldn’t give maximum effort every shift — but at its core, this sport is meant to be enjoyed. Appreciate the laughs with your teammates, cherish the away tournaments, and remember the small moments like playing mini-sticks in hotel hallways, because time flies by faster than you realize. The best advice I ever received came from my dad, who told me before every game to attack every puck with 103% effort and to have fun doing it. That mindset stayed with me, because when you play hard and have fun at the same time, that’s what this game is truly all about.
#8 – RW, MATTHEW COCKAYNE (Mississauga Beast)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Scoring the winning shootout goal to win the ROPSSA Varsity Hockey Championship for the first time in school history.
Who would you like to thank? My family for all of their support, with a shoutout to my Dad for getting me to every game and practice.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Shoot pucks in your backyard, even if you hit a couple windows along the way!
#10 – F, LEO FEDORYAKA (Mississauga Beast)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing in the pool with my teammates at the hotel, at an away tournament.
Who would you like to thank? My dad and my first coach with the Heartland Dragons, Terry Graham.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Shoot the puck!
#92 – RW, OWEN MURPHY (Mississauga Jets)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing mini-sticks at away tournaments.
Who would you like to thank? My parents and my coaches.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Work hard, stay humble, and respect the game that you love.
#13 – F, MAX BAZHUTIN (Mississauga Jets)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory was going to Latvia for a hockey camp. It was a great experience.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for their support, the time they spend, and all the effort they put in. I would also like to thank my coaches who believed in me and helped me grow as a player.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Work towards your goals and have fun.
#71 – RW, LANDON KIM (Ted Reeve Thunder)
Favourite minor hockey memory: U16 ‘AA’ playoff series comeback after being down five points to one, and playing every game with a short bench to win the GTHL East Finals.
Who would you like to thank? Thank you to my parents for their support and dedicating time to go to all of my practices, games, and tournaments. And thanks to my younger brothers, Marcus and Owen, for being my biggest fans.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Learn how to compete when things aren’t going your way. Don’t let bad shifts or bad calls take you out of the game.
#44 – C, A.J. DAVIS (Vaughan Panthers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the GTHL playoffs with the U16 Vaughan Panthers, and being the number one team in Ontario.
Who would you like to thank? My parents.
What advice do you have for the next generation? Have fun, play with a team first mentality, and be grateful.
