LSHL 2025 Draft

Article by Laetitia Marey

Coffee, Camaraderie, and Captains in the Spotlight

The Living Sisu Hockey League (LSHL) officially kicked off its fifth summer season — and its fourth edition on the women’s side — with its annual draft, held in the warm and energetic atmosphere of Café Milano in Laval on July 3, 2025.

This year’s event came with a fun twist: a live podcast broadcast, hosted by the ever-entertaining trio behind La Poche Bleue Blanc Rouge — André Roy, Steve Bégin, and Éric Bélanger. They were joined by Zach Fucale, co-owner of the league alongside Olivier Gervais, who took the reins of the evening as master of ceremonies and conducted the live team draft.

Thanks to our partners

Before the picks began, the league took a moment to warmly thank its dedicated partners who help make this summer tradition possible year after year. First and foremost, Café Milano Laval, proud host of this year’s draft, along with Rénobrio, Accent Insurance Solutions, Manmade, and Be Healthy Love Berry — all of whom continue to support the growth and visibility of this special league.
All LSHL profits go directly to the Pancreatic Cancer Canada Foundation, adding a deeper purpose to the action on the ice.

The captains ready to lead the charge

The event continued with the announcement of this summer’s team captains, who will be leading their squads into the 2025 season:

Manmade: Simon Benoit & Laura Stacey
Be Healthy Love Berry: Vincent Desharnais & Emmy Fecteau
Rénobrio: P.-O. Joseph & Alexandra Labelle
Accent Insurance Solutions: Alexandre Carrier & Gabrielle David

Some captains couldn’t be there in person, but followed the draft remotely, responding to text messages in real-time — a great example of the flexibility and relaxed spirit that defines the LSHL.

A draft that reflects the league: fast, fun, and laid-back

The draft itself, masterfully run by Zach Fucale, moved quickly and smoothly in a festive, easygoing atmosphere. Selections were made in true LSHL fashion — serious hockey, but never taken too seriously.

Draft order:

Be Healthy Love Berry
Manmade
Rénobrio
Accent Insurance Solutions

Captains on the mic

After about an hour of drafting, the captains who were present took to the mic. A new segment this year featured a podcast spotlight on two of the women’s team captains, Alexandra Labelle and Emmy Fecteau, who shared insights into their draft strategy, their excitement for the season, and the growing impact of the LSHL on the summer hockey scene.

Then it was time for Vincent Desharnais and Simon Benoit to speak, bringing their trademark energy and humor to the mic. Their message was clear: the competition will be fierce, but above all, the goal is to have fun.

Strong subs, strong structure

It’s important to note that while the teams have been officially drafted, they serve more as a guideline than a rigid roster. Several players weren't selected during the draft but will still be regularly involved as substitutes. The fixed team structure mainly exists to avoid reshuffling teams each week while ensuring a balanced and competitive level of play throughout the season.

A summer to look forward to

With the full rosters now available online (see the complete lineups below), everything is in place for LSHL 2025 to once again be a must-see event of the summer, for both players and fans alike.

📍 See you on the ice — and on La Poche Bleue’s platforms — for the best of off-season hockey, Living Sisu style.

Watch the full draft replay here: https://www.youtube.com/live/JUovRk6tEgk?si=XXKsA3N1Dz22CJZ0
🎟️ Tickets available here: https://livingsisu.com/collections/lshl-tickets
🎧 Follow La Poche Bleue: https://linktr.ee/lapocheee