Navy Vets bow out to Braves in entertaining Doherty Division final

Lee Griffi, Editor

It wasn’t the ending the team had hoped for as Woodstock bowed out to Tavistock in the Provincial Junior Hockey League’s Doherty Division final in seven games.

The Braves jumped out to a 2-0 lead by the 16-minute mark of the first period, but goals by Cooper Vickerman and Will McGregor tied the game with just under 7 minutes left in the second. Tavistock’s Carter Arseneau then took over with the go-ahead goal with one second left in the period on a powerplay and added the eventual game-winner 13:30 into the final frame. Carson Littlejohn found the back of the net with just over two minutes remaining, but it was too little too late as the Braves won the series and moved on to face Dundas in the South Conference final.

Tavistock currently leads the Blues 2-0 after 5-0 and 3-2 victories.

The Navy Vets took to social media to release a statement following the loss to the Braves.

“As the Vets Jr. C season comes to a close, we want to take a moment to thank our amazing fans.

Friday night hockey in Woodstock became something extra special this season. You packed the barn, made it loud, and turned Southwood into one of the toughest places to play. What we’ve built here in Woodstock isn’t just hockey; it’s a tradition, and it wouldn’t be what it is without our fans and community.

We truly have the best fans in the league, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the support you brought all season long. The 2025–2026 season was one to remember for this team.

A big thank you to all of our sponsors, especially our team sponsor @confidencesports, for being a huge part of this season and this community.

Congratulations to the Tavistock Braves. Thanks for an electric Doherty Division Final and a battle to finish off the last season in the PJHL. We wish you the best of luck as you continue your push toward the Schmalz.

Anchortown, thank you for everything. See you back at the barn in 2026-2027 for a new chapter.”

That new chapter begins with a Prospects Camp taking place from May 21 to 23. Spots are limited, and registration is at https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSddKM5m0d7ze7.../viewform.