Team Spotlight: Danford Lakers Ready to Swing Big in GVA Men’s Ball League

DANFORD, QUEBEC – May 1, 2025 – As the GVA Men’s Ball League gears up for its inaugural season, the Danford Lakers are stepping up to the plate with a legacy of grit, a roster packed with talented athletes, and a renewed rivalry that’ll light up Redhawk Field. This squad is ready to make waves, blending veteran experience and youthful speed, with a nod to their storied past.

Leadership on the Diamond

At the helm of the Danford Lakers is Ryan Peck, the team rep who’s brought this crew together for the 2025 season. But on the field, the team will lean on the experience of veterans John Peck and Shane Peck to guide the squad through the ups and downs of a summer campaign. John, in particular, brings a wealth of knowledge—having played fastball for decades in Danford and for Ottawa powerhouses like the Stittsville 56’ers and Ottawa Team Easton. “John’s seen it all,” Ryan says. “He and Shane will be our leaders out there.”

Roster and Key Players

The Lakers’ roster is a dynamic mix of local talent and crossover stars:

• Carter Peck
• Cole Peck
• Dakota Hudson
• Devon Thompson
• Joe Lemieux
• John Peck
• Luke Peck
• Nicholas Carroll
• Nolan Peck
• Ryan Peck
• Shane Peck

A strong contingent of Paugan Falls Rapids players—Nicholas Carroll, Devon Thompson, Ryan Peck, Carter Peck, Luke Peck, Cole Peck and Nolan Peck—bring a hockey-honed edge to the diamond. “These guys know how to compete, and it’s not their first time on a ball diamond,” Ryan notes, hinting at the crossover fans can look forward to.

Players to Watch

Keep your eyes peeled for these Lakers standouts:

• Devon Thompson: A defensive wizard in the infield, Thompson’s glove work will be a game-changer.
• Joe Lemieux: Speedy on the bases and a menace at the plate, Lemieux also anchors center field as one of the league’s best.
• Dakota Hudson: At 6’5”, Hudson is a towering presence who can crush the ball—and he’s expected to be a key arm in the Lakers’ bullpen.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Lakers’ biggest strength? Speed and offense. They’ve got a young and fast team. Expect them to pound the ball and steal bases every chance they get. That aggressive style should keep opponents on their toes. But there’s a question mark: pitching depth. The Lakers don’t have a clear #1 pitcher yet and they’ll need to figure that out to contend with the teams who’ve got deep bullpens. If pitching prospects Dakota Hudson, Nicholas Carroll and Ryan Peck, can step up, the Lakers could be a force to be reckoned with.

Team History and Legacy

Danford’s ball roots run deep, stretching back to the 1970s with pitchers like Brian Peck, Terry Flannery, and Barry Atkinson. In later years, Randy Peck emerged as Danford’s top talent, eventually representing Canada at the Pan Am Games and World Championships. The Lakers have always been known for their work ethic—often starting with raw athletes but molding winning teams through discipline and heart. A historic rivalry with Venosta adds extra spice—fittingly, the two teams will face off in the league’s home opener on May 9, reigniting decades of spirited competition.

Uniforms, Logo, and Colours

The Danford Lakers will hit Redhawk Field in style, rocking all-new red button-up jerseys that blend tradition with a modern edge. “DANFORD” is proudly embroidered across the chest in bold black lettering, accented by white and black trim on the sleeves. Red socks, a red belt, and a red cap—featuring a sharp black “DL” logo—complete the look. The design pays homage to Danford’s historical jerseys while giving the team a fresh, sharp look for the 2025 season.

Why They Matter

The Danford Lakers aren’t just another team—they’re a legacy reborn. With a mix of ball veterans, young up-and-coming talent, and Rapids players, they’re poised to bring speed, heart, and a touch of history to the GVA Men’s Ball League. Whether they can shore up their pitching and channel their work ethic into wins remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: when the Lakers take the field on May 9, Danford pride will be on full display.

Fans can follow the Lakers’ journey on the GVA Men’s Ball League’s Facebook and Instagram pages. First pitch is just weeks away—get ready for a summer of competitive men’s ball!