It’s finally here, Dawgs fans — tomorrow is Opening Night in the Star City! After a long offseason, the boys are back, the Berglund Center is ready to roar, and that blue-and-gold energy is buzzing through Roanoke once again.
This year’s Rail Yard Dawgs lineup looks bigger, stronger, and tougher than ever. There’s a noticeable edge out there — more size, more grit, and a whole lot more crashing the net. You can feel it already: this team’s going to be a handful for anyone in the SPHL.
Between the pipes, our wall of steel Austyn Roudebush is back to protect the Dawg House, with Brody Claeys bringing a massive 6’4″ presence and Gabe Rosek adding depth and fire in goal.
On defense, there’s plenty of muscle and attitude. Cory Doney, C.J. Valerian, and Bryce Martin return to keep things tight, while newcomers Andrew Stacey, Olivier Beaudoin, and Fabrice Bourgeois (standing tall at 6’4”) add even more strength to the blue line. Matt O’Dea brings that do-it-all versatility — he can play both ends and never takes a shift off.
Up front, it’s a powerful mix of skill and sandpaper. Joe Widmar is back to lead the charge offensively, and Andrew Harley brings that spark that gets the crowd on its feet. Travis Broughman, the hometown favorite, adds size and drive down low, while Khristian Acosta provides finesse and finish.
Ricky Boysen and Ryan Reifler give us two big-bodied forwards who love to battle in front of the net, and Tim Manning and Damon Furuseth bring that high-motor, never-quit Dawgs energy every shift.
Matt Dorsey adds some serious skill with a 6’2″ frame that can power through defenders, and Gustav Müller brings some European style and strength from Sweden.
And don’t sleep on the Fechko brothers, Marcus and Trey — young, talented, and absolutely fearless. Expect them to make things happen every time they hit the ice.
Top to bottom, this Dawgs squad looks built to own the crease, win the corners, and make life miserable for opposing goalies.
So Dawgs fans — you know the drill. Grab your jerseys, bring your voices, and pack the Berglund. Tomorrow night, the wait ends, the horn sounds, and the Dawgs come charging out hungry for another run.
The Dawg House is open. Let’s make some noise, Roanoke! 💙💛🐶