Dunnville Jr. Mudcats honour 50 years of history
By Jeff Rooney
DUNNVILLE — The Dunnville Jr. Mudcats are celebrating five decades playing the game they love.
The team’s journey began in the 1974-75 season when they took to the ice as the Dunnville Terriers, initially competing in the Golden Horseshoe Junior B Hockey League.
—Photo courtesy of the Dunnville Jr. Mudcats.
The Terriers quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, capturing their first championship in 1976 when they defeated the Essex 73s four games to two.
This early success set the tone for a winning tradition that would span generations.
On Friday, January 16, 2026, players, family members, fans, and 12 alumni from that championship team gathered at the Dunnville Memorial Arena to celebrate the 50th anniversary of that first championship win. It was a night to remember and honour that first taste of victory.
Tyler Springer, Director of Hockey Operations for the Mudcats, and whose family ties run deep in the Dunnville hockey community, was enthusiastic about the evening.
“We’re proud and honoured to be able to represent Dunnville, hockey traditions, and the club, and host events like this to honour our colourful past,” he said. “Our alumni are a very important part of the team and the town. Mudcat history runs deep, and being able to share that with our current players and fans, well, that’s special.”
The night ended on a fittingly high note, with a 6-3 win over the Port Dover Sailors. Dunnville’s goals came from Aiden Agnello and Campbell Inglis in the first, followed by Duggy Winger, Mark Gibson, Mason Demedeiros, and Luke Breadner in the second.
If you’re looking for an entertaining evening, consider taking in a game to cheer on the Mudcats. See the full schedule at dunnvillejrmudcats.pjhlon.hockeytech.com.
Home game tickets are available at the arena on game nights, 275 Ramsey Drive, Dunnville.
—Haldimand Press photo by Jeff Rooney.
