The 49-year drought is officially over.
For the first time since 1976, the Rockland Nationals are Bogart Cup champions.
The Nats, who posted the best record during the 2024–25 Central Canada Hockey League season, defeated the Carleton Place Canadians in the Bogart Cup final with a sweep to capture the league’s top prize.
“I am extremely proud of this group of guys,” said Rockland head coach Justin Pereira, who was named CCHL coach of the year in just his second season behind the Nationals’ bench. “Before the game we linked hands, and I told the team that if we win, we are forever united. This is a special group, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to coach such great young men.”
Rockland captain Josh O’Connor said it was a cherry-on-top moment to win a Bogart Cup in his final season in a Nationals uniform. O’Connor has committed to Dalhousie University for next season.
“This is such a great team accomplishment, and I couldn’t be happier for these guys,” said O’Connor. “We worked so hard all season, and these memories are going to stay with us forever. It’s such an honour to be part of this team.”
The Nationals’ captain credited not only the players on the ice but also the owners, general manager and coaching staff for investing in the players and building a winning environment.
“It’s a great culture, and I can’t say enough good things about this organization,” he added. “This organization has taken a complete 180 over the past few years, and we are proud to be part of that success.”
General manager Carl Robillard, who was named CCHL general manager of the year for the 2024–25 season, said that when he was hired two years ago, his goal was to turn the team around. A new coaching staff, a new culture and a new strategy all proved to be successful tactics.
“We are tremendously proud to bring a Bogart Cup championship to Rockland,” he said. “When I arrived here just over two years ago, we set our plan into motion. We are blessed to have achieved it this quickly. We’d like to thank the entire Nationals fanbase for their incredible support during this run. At home and on the road, we felt like the home team.”
By claiming the CCHL’s top prize, the Nats have earned the opportunity to compete for the Centennial Cup, where they will face league champions from across the country.
The 2025 Centennial Cup will be held May 8 to 18 in Calgary, Alta., and will feature 10 teams: the host Calgary Canucks and representatives from the Alberta Junior Hockey League, Ligue de hockey junior AAA du Québec, Ontario Junior Hockey League, Superior International Junior Hockey League, Central Canada Hockey League, Manitoba Junior Hockey League, Maritime Hockey League, Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League and Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.
