When Snake Island Muskies lifted the Presidents Cup trophy on August 30, 2025, the crowd at Iroquois Park Sports Centre erupted into a roar that echoed through the park’s vaulted rafters. The 11‑5 final score over the Brooklin Merchants wasn’t just a win; it was the culmination of a flawless six‑game run that crowned the Muskies’ first ever national title.
Historic First Title for the Muskies
Founded in 2014, the Snake Island Muskies have spent most of the past decade chasing a championship that always seemed just out of reach. Their 2025 campaign flipped that script. Six straight victories, including a dominant 9‑3 semi‑final over the Victoria Cougars, proved the team had finally found the right chemistry and depth to dominate senior‑B box lacrosse.
Key to that chemistry was the steady hand of head coach Mark "Maverick" Lawson, who emphasized a fast‑break style that forced opponents into mistakes. The Muskies outscored opponents 61‑29 over the entire tournament – a point differential that would make even seasoned analysts sit up and take notice.
Tournament Recap and Key Performances
The 2025 Presidents CupIroquois Park Sports Centre spanned seven days, featuring 22 scheduled games and eight teams from across Canada. Early on, the Muskies posted a 12‑4 opening‑day victory against the Charlottetown Raiders, setting the tone for what would become a tournament‑wide offensive surge.
While the whole roster contributed, the standout was the mysterious forward known only as Damude. He tallied 18 points – seven goals and eleven assists – and was rightfully named tournament MVP. In the gold‑medal game, Damude’s third‑period hat‑trick turned a tight 6‑5 lead into an 11‑5 rout, sealing the win with a spectacular behind‑the‑goal flick that left the opposing goalie grasping at air.
For the Brooklin Merchants, it was a heartbreaking loss after a strong 5‑1 run through the pool stage. Their star midfielder, Liam O’Rourke, managed 12 points in the tournament but could not overcome the Muskies’ defensive pressure in the final ten minutes.
Joe Hall’s Storybook Finale
Perhaps the most poignant narrative belonged to veteran forward Joe Hall. The 38‑year‑old entered the 2025 Presidents Cup on the brink of retirement, having already tasted a title back in 2009 with the Peterborough Whitecaps. This was his 19th appearance – a number that most players only dream of reaching.
Hall’s final game was a masterclass in poise. He contributed three assists, including a clever feed that set up Damude’s decisive third goal. After the final whistle, Hall stood beside his teenage son, Ethan Hall, as they fielded questions from Pat Gregoire, the tournament’s lead broadcaster.
"This is unreal. This is the best feeling in the world," Hall said, his voice thick with emotion.
When asked if this would be his last competitive game, Hall shrugged and replied, "I think that was it... I think that was it." The comment sparked a wave of social‑media tributes, with fans applauding a career that spanned nearly two decades and two national titles.
Reactions from Coaches and Teammates
Teammate Jordan Sinfield could barely contain his excitement. "I cannot believe I got to play with Joe Hall. He's such a good guy and a team player. (He is) one heck of a lacrosse player, and he deserves it more than anything, and we're all so happy for him," he said, still beaming during the post‑game interview.
Coach Lawson praised the entire roster, noting the depth that allowed the Muskies to stay fresh throughout the grueling schedule. "We had a lot of guys step up on both ends of the floor. That’s the beauty of senior‑B – it's a collective effort," he explained.
What This Means for Senior‑B Lacrosse
The victory reshapes the competitive landscape. For years, the Presidents Cup has been dominated by teams from Ontario and British Columbia; the Muskies' win signals a rising tide for clubs from smaller communities. The Canadian Lacrosse Association (Canadian Lacrosse Association) announced plans to increase funding for senior‑B development programs, citing the Muskies' success as a case study for grassroots growth.
Analysts predict that the Muskies’ brand of high‑tempo offense will inspire other teams to adopt similar strategies, potentially leading to a more fast‑paced, spectator‑friendly product. Attendance at senior‑B games has already risen 12% year‑over‑year, and the electrifying final at Iroquois Park may push that figure even higher.
Key Facts
- Championship date: August 30, 2025
- Final score: Snake Island Muskies 11, Brooklin Merchants 5
- Venue: Iroquois Park Sports Centre, Mississauga, Ontario
- Muskies record: 6‑0 (undefeated)
- Joe Hall’s appearances: 19 Presidents Cup tournaments
- Tournament MVP: Damude (18 points, 7G‑11A)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Muskies’ victory affect the senior‑B lacrosse scene?
The win showcases that clubs outside the traditional powerhouses can compete at the highest level, prompting the Canadian Lacrosse Association to boost funding for smaller market teams and encouraging other clubs to adopt the Muskies’ high‑tempo style.
What were the standout performances in the final?
Damude’s third‑period hat‑trick turned a close game into an 11‑5 blowout, while Joe Hall added three assists. Goalkeeper Markus Patel recorded eight saves, keeping the Muskies in front for most of the match.
Why is Joe Hall’s retirement significant?
Hall’s 19 appearances span two decades, making him one of the most experienced players in Presidents Cup history. His second championship caps a career that helped shape senior‑B lacrosse and provides an inspirational story for younger athletes.
What was the overall structure of the 2025 Presidents Cup?
The tournament ran from August 24 to August 30, featuring eight teams playing a round‑robin pool followed by knockout rounds. In total, 22 games were contested over seven days at Iroquois Park Sports Centre.
Who will likely lead the Muskies into next season?
Coach Mark "Maverick" Lawson confirmed he will return, and the team plans to retain core players like Damude and Sinfield while adding veteran depth to sustain their championship momentum.
Alistair Lockridge
Hi, I'm Alistair Lockridge, a sports enthusiast with a special passion for the game of polo. I've spent years studying and analyzing the sport, eventually transforming my knowledge into insightful articles and engaging commentary. My love for polo has taken me around the world, and I've had the pleasure of witnessing some of the most thrilling matches in the sport's history. My goal is to share my passion and expertise with fellow polo enthusiasts and newcomers alike, and contribute to the ever-growing appreciation for this exciting game.
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