Ahead of the Greater Toronto Hockey League’s 2025 Under-18 All-Star Festival fuelled by Gatorade on January 25 at Scotiabank Pond, the ‘AA’ All-Stars reflected on their minor hockey careers. The U18 ‘AA’ All-Star Game is set for Saturday, January 25 at 1:00pm. Admission to the U18 All-Star Festival, including all games, is free.
U18 AA ALL-STARS: TEAM BLUE
#1 – G, KEITH BIZJAK-LAWRENCE (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory was last year, my team went to Pittsburgh and on our bus we had a great time, playing music and getting pumped for the games.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me throughout all the ups and downs of my career so far and always being there for me. Also, a big thanks to all of my past coaches and goalie coaches throughout the years – I wouldn’t be where I am without all of you.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? One of my proudest moments has to be getting to play for the Terriers this season. After I put in all this work during all those summer workouts, goalie lessons, and practices, seeing all of the work paid off was a great feeling.
#30 – G, BURKE LANDRY (Scarborough Young Bruins)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing in and winning a tournament in Denver, Colorado.
Who would you like to thank? My family and my teammates over the years.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? All that I have accomplished in my hockey journey.
#31 – G, HUGO STODOLA (Mississauga Jets)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Running around Niagara Falls with the teammates.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents and coaches, as well as a shoutout to Murph Ajmo and Robert Shaw.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am proud of how much better I’ve gotten over my many years playing hockey and my favourite moments were getting shutouts in big playoff games or tournaments.
#2 – D, NOAH WEST (Mississauga Jets)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Going to Chicago this season for a tournament with my teammates.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for all their support and encouragement.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am very proud of being a Jets team member and being a part of a team that is very competitive within the league. I am also proud of being a part of my high school hockey team for four years in a row.
#3 – D, MATEO BORRELLI (Scarborough Young Bruins)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory was when I scored a buzzer beating goal to win the game.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents, coaches, and all of my teammates that I played with over the years.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of being able to play hockey at the ‘AA’ level and how it has allowed me to mature as a person and a player.
#4 – D, HAYDEN MCISAAC (Mississauga Jets)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the Paul Coffey tournament this season.
Who would you like to thank? My dad for driving me to the hundreds of games and practices – we were never late!
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? Being named captain of the Mississauga Jets this season after playing with the club for six years.
#5 – D, JACOB DORAN (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: One of my fondest memories was in 2023 just after I joined the Terriers. We travelled to Michigan to play in the “Salute the Service” tournament. On the Friday night, the whole team went and watched the University of Michigan Wolverines play against the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers. The game was amazing. The arena was beautiful, the atmosphere was overwhelming, and the hockey was amazing. What a fun night. On top of seeing a great game, we ended up winning the tournament.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank both my mom and dad for all the early mornings, long road trips in blizzards to cold arenas. I wold like to thank them for sharpening my skates, replacing broken hockey sticks, and all the trips through the drive-thru after the game. Mom and dad, thank you for helping to make hockey fun. I could not have done it without your support.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am proud to be a Mississauga Terrier. The Terriers are a great organization that emphasizes important values such as dedication, integrity, and sportsmanship. Everyone on the team works hard every shift and we all support each other. Even when we face adversity, like injuries or tough games, we battle through it together. My coaches and teammates have helped me continue to grow and become a better hockey player. We win and sometimes loose, but I have never stopped having fun. I can’t think of playing with a better group of guys.
#6 – D, SPENCER RADFORD (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory is from when I was playing with the Erindale Spitfires during a tournament in Ottawa. My team was staying in the same hotel as the Toronto Maple Leafs who were playing the Senators that weekend, and in between games, my teammates and I were [looking for] Leafs players in the hotel. I was lucky enough to meet and get an autograph from Auston Matthews.
Who would you like to thank? There is no singular person I want to thank – I want to thank my parents and little brother, especially for the frequent early morning drives and the cheers I hear in the stands. I would like to thank all of my coaches from my first year to my last, Chicago to Mississauga.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I’m most proud of the adversity I’ve faced and overcome – from COVID-19 to injuries. I am also proud of the people who have helped me become the person I am today.
#21 – D, RYAN LOU (Toronto Shamrocks)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the 2022 U15 ‘AA’ GTHL and OHF Championships.
Who would you like to thank? All of my coaches, but specifically Coach Felice Turano.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I’m proud of the memories, people, and friends I have met over my minor hockey journey.
#8 – F, ROBERT STANKO (Mississauga Jets)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Hotel mini-sticks.
Who would you like to thank? Anyone who has sacrificed time to take me to a game or practice.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? Making the All-Star team.
#9 – F, JAYDEN JANICKI (Mississauga Jets)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning my first away tournament at Oktoberfest in Kitchener with the Streetsville Tigers.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for giving me the opportunity to play hockey. Also Coach Mark Trozzo, Coach Ryan Reid, Coach Mike Canavan, and Coach Mark Weston for teaching me and guiding me on and off the ice throughout the years.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? My most proud moment in hockey is when I scored two goals in 53 seconds to defeat the Vaughan Rangers 3-2 when we were down 2-1.
#10 – F, BEN DOITCH (Toronto Shamrocks)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite hockey memory was a tournament in Niagara Falls with my team and winning the Silver Stick Final.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for their constant support and encouragement throughout all my years of playing hockey.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud when I helped my team make it all the way to the GTHL Finals and then win the GTHL championship in 2019.
#11 – F, CHARLIE KIM (Ted Reeve Thunder)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning our first tournament in Cobourg.
Who would you like to thank? Dad, for always motivating me and getting me to the rink. Mom, for making amazing pregame meals throughout my hockey career.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of how I’ve become more disciplined throughout the years, on and off the ice. I’ve learned to manage my time and stay consistent with school work and hockey commitments.
#12 – F, COLIN DE SANTO (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory was in 2019 when my Mississauga Terriers team were finalists in the Chevrolet Good Deeds Cup. We taught children new to Canada how to skate and play hockey.
Who would you like to thank? I want to thank my grandparents for pushing me to be the best person and player I can be and supporting me at every event.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of the unforgettable friendships and memories I have created along the way.
#13 – F, MICHAEL AYERST (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: When I scored in double overtime against the Streetsville Tigers to advance the team to the playoff finals.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank Coaches James De Santo and Jesse Migliaro, who have been my coaches for 11 consecutive seasons – for all of their time, effort, and the incredibly hockey experience I have had over these seasons!
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? Participating in the Good Deeds Cup and teaching kids who were new to Canada how to play hockey.
#15 – F, DAVIDE ROBERTSON (Mississauga Terriers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the Lake Placid tournament in 2018 on the famous rink the “Miracle on Ice” took place.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my family and coaches for all the support over the years.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of the memories and relationships made throughout the years. [I’m also] proud of being part of community service efforts like winning the Good Deeds Cup Central Region while being in the Silver Stick Finals in our [U13] season.
#16 – F, DUNCAN MACDONALD (Scarborough Young Bruins)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Shattering the glass finishing a check a few years ago.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents and family for all of their love and support. Also a special thanks to all of the coaches, assistant coaches, trainers, managers, teammates, and opponents who have made my minor hockey experience so memorable.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? The friendships I’ve made!
#17 – F, MARCUS TUEN (Scarborough Young Bruins)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Scoring two goals in the finals of the OHFs in [U11 ‘A’] which led to my first, true accomplishment in my hockey career.
Who would you like to thank? My mom, Mingming, for spending countless hours on me and my dreams.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of the person I have become today because of hockey. My childhood sport has taught me many life lessons that benefit both myself as an athlete and a person.
#18 – F, LUCAS JOHNSTON (Ted Reeve Thunder)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the Justin Williams tournament.
Who would you like to thank? I want to thank coach Joe Kim. His dedication, hard work, and unwavering belief in the team have made an incredible difference. He’s gone above and beyond to develop our skills and also in teaching us the right way to play. The confidence he has instilled in me will last far beyond hockey.
#23 – F, TRAVIS KESPER (Scarborough Young Bruins)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Scoring my first hat trick.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank both of my parents for all the work and the time they have put into my hockey career over the past 13 years.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I’m most proud of all the great people and coaches I have met and the life-long relationships I’ve made playing hockey.
#25 – F, KYLE CHANG (Ted Reeve Thunder)
Favourite minor hockey memory: When I played at the Olympic Centre in Lake Placid with my U13 ‘AA’ team.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for their love, time, and support.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of my leadership skills and work ethic.
U18 AA ALL-STARS: TEAM RED
#1 – G, DREW GOLDESTEIN (North Toronto)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Going away to Florida for an out-of-town trip.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my parents – without their encouragement, I wouldn’t be playing hockey.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? Playing on the same team with a lot of the same teammates [U6].
#30 – G, ADAM GARRAZ (Mississauga North Stars)
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my parents and siblings for driving me all over the place for hockey.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I’m most proud of always being a part of a great team and winning a city championship.
#31 – G, ELIJAH DRYFHOUT (Toronto Eagles)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning away tournaments!
Who would you like to thank? My parents for always bringing me to practice and supporting me every year.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I’m proud that I’ve continued to love the game even through some tough sessions.
#2 – D, RILEY STOLBERG (North Toronto)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite memory would have to be going to Florida for a tournament.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my friends, family, and coaches.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? The friendships I’ve build with my teammates.
#3 – D, CHASE GILLINGHAM (Mississauga North Stars)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the GTHL championship.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my dad, mom, and my dog Griffin.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of playing for the Mississauga North Stars.
#4 – D, LOGAN PRIOR (Vaughan Rangers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory would be going to away tournaments.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my coaches, the Vaughan Rangers organization, and my parents.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I’m most proud of playing for the Vaughan Rangers and being their captain.
#5 – D, GABRIEL SCANDINARO (Duffield Devils)
Favourite minor hockey memory: One of my favourite memories is winning the championship at the Buffalo Riverworks outdoor tournament. The outdoor experience was an amazing one and winning the title was even better. I will never forget the memories that we made as a team.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my coaches over the years for their leadership, support, and guidance. I would also like to thank my parents, grandparents, and family for always supporting me and being my biggest fans. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of the friendships that I have made over the years. I have met amazing friends that are like family – these friendships will last a lifetime.
#7 – D, COLIN BRAZEL (Toronto Eagles)
Favourite minor hockey memory: [U6] season – skating during intermission at Marlies game.
Who would you like to thank? My parents. They have spent lots of time taking me to practice, watching me play, and replacing broken sticks.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? When coaches and teammates recognize me as a leader on the team.
#6 – F, NIRVAAN KWAN (Toronto Royals)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing ‘AAA’.
Who would you like to thank? I would love to thank my parents for taking the time to drive me and to believe in me.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? Winning MVP.
#8 – F, JESSE KAPLAN (Mississauga North Stars)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning MVP.
Who would you like to thank? My coaches and family for their steadfast support and encouragement in doing what I love most.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? Being able to contribute and play on a playoff team every year.
#9 – F, GRAEME MITKIEWICZ (Mississauga North Stars)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Detroit hockey tournament.
Who would you like to thank? My dad for introducing me to hockey.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? Scoring with four seconds left to advance to the GTHL finals.
#10 – F, BEN SHINER (Toronto Eagles)
Favourite minor hockey memory: One of my favourite minor hockey memories would be our pre-season team retreats, especially this past September in Collingwood. The bond we created as a team on and off the ice is truly unstoppable. It just goes to show that when a group of people come together they can truly do extraordinary things.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank all of the players and coaches that I have played for and with throughout my hockey career. You have all been a key component to my success. I would also like to thank my parents for supporting me in my hockey dreams.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? In the 2023-24 season, I got the opportunity to play in my first OJHL Jr. ‘A’ hockey game. I am thankful for everyone who helped me achieve this goal.
#11 – F, ZACH SHAPIRA (North Toronto)
Favourite minor hockey memory: My favourite minor hockey memory is winning the same tournament back-to-back years.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for always supporting me and encouraging me.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? The thing I’m most proud of is that I’ve played my entire minor hockey career on North Toronto with some of my best friends.
#12 – F, THOMAS SEAWRIGHT (Toronto Royals)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning MVP for my team.
Who would you like to thank? I would like to thank my parents for dedicating their time to bringing me to games and practices, and always supporting me.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am proud that I learned many things throughout my hockey career such as getting along with people that I just met and growing character.
#13 – F, TOBY JACKSTEIT (Toronto Eagles)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Playing mini-sticks and running around in all the hotels during tournaments.
Who would you like to thank? I want to thank my parents for their sacrifice and dedication to driving me to every practice and being there during my highs and lows. I also want to thank my brother for being a good example for me throughout my hockey career.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of the skills I’ve learned and the work ethic that I have gained. Hockey has taught me so many important things that I can bring into my everyday life and I am extremely proud to say that I learned them from playing hockey.
#15 – F, ETHAN THEOPHILOS (Toronto Eagles)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the U14 ‘AA’ Gene Harrington Cup in Buffalo with the Mississauga Jets. We played the Semis and Finals at the RiverWorks Arena which is a slightly covered outdoor rink. We felt like NHL players at the Winter Classic.
Who would you like to thank? My parents. They started me in hockey and drove me to so many games, practices, and training sessions over the years. I will always be thankful for that support.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of my development as both a player and a person. Hockey has taught me so many lessons about dedication, humility, leadership, overcoming disappointment, and being a good teammate.
#16 – F, NICHOLAS DAPONTE (Mississauga North Stars)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning the GTHL championship last year.
Who would you like to thank? My dad.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? The ability to gain responsibility through my years of playing hockey.
#18 – F, CHRISTIAN MOULITZI (Vaughan Rangers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Meeting Mitch Marner at a hockey summer camp.
Who would you like to thank? All the coaching staff for Vaughan Rangers ‘AA’ U18 – Carlo Aletto, Nick Levesque, Noah DiMaria, and Tony Barone. My parents, Jim and Brigitte, for their support and encouragement throughout my years playing organized hockey.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? All the friendships and great coaches I have met and encountered.
#21 – F, MICHAEL CECCHINI (Vaughan Rangers)
Favourite minor hockey memory: Winning our last minor hockey tournament in Utica.
Who would you like to thank? I’d like to thank my brother for being an inspiration and shooting pucks with me in the basement.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? I am most proud of my ability to overcome/play through many of my injuries throughout my minor hockey career.
#22 – F, HAMISH EADY (North Toronto)
Favourite minor hockey memory: This year, playing a hockey tournament in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Who would you like to thank? All my coaches and my parents.
What are you most proud of (on or off the ice)? The friendships I have made with my teammates.
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