BUFFALO, N.Y. — For most athletes, the chance represent their home country on an international stage is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. For two D'Youville University teammates, roommates, and best friends, that dream became reality—together—at the 2025 International Indoor Junior Lacrosse (IIJL) World Junior Lacrosse Championships.
Brody Strong (Gores Landing, Ontario/Holy Trinity) and Hayden Goldthorp (Oro-Medonte, Ontario/St. Joes) earned their spots on Team Canada, marking a shared high point in a friendship that's spanned years of battles, injuries, and growth on and off the field.
"Being selected to play for Team Canada at the World Juniors has been one of the proudest moments of my life," said Strong, who returned this season after a difficult Lisfranc fracture in his left foot. "It's something you dream about as a kid, and to see that dream become a reality is incredibly special. Representing both my country and D'Youville on this stage means everything to me."
Just a week before arriving at the tournament, he wrapped up his final junior season with the Orillia Kings, which ended in devastating fashion: a playoff loss in the final seconds of game four. But even that heartbreak couldn't take away from what followed.
"This week has been an amazing way to close that chapter. The experience has been unforgettable. I've had the chance to compete with and against some of the best, wear the Maple Leaf with pride, and create memories that will stick with me forever."
Strong didn't have to experience those memories alone.
"Being selected to represent Team Canada in the World Juniors is honestly a dream come true," Goldthorp said. "Growing up in Orillia, I never could've imagined I'd get this opportunity. It's surreal, especially after the way my junior career ended last week—heartbroken with two seconds left in game four. That was tough, but this week has been an incredible experience."
The emotional rollercoaster of their final junior games has been replaced with a whirlwind of national pride, top-level competition, and the kind of shared experience few teammates ever get to have.
"We've been through a lot together and having him by my side for something like this just adds to how special it is," said Goldthorp. "Doing this with my D'Youville teammate, roommate, and lifelong best friend, Brody Strong, makes it even more meaningful."
The two have become a central part of Canada's lineup, bringing chemistry, leadership, and passion to the floor. For them, it's not just about personal success—it's about honoring those who helped them get there.
"I'm beyond grateful for the support from my family, coaches, and everyone who helped me get here," Strong said. "I wouldn't be here without them."
"Huge thanks to my family, friends, and all the coaches who've supported me through the ups and downs," echoed Goldthorp. "This wouldn't have been possible without that support."
Now, the focus is on one more task: finishing strong with a gold medal—a game that could pit Team Canada against the United States on Friday night.
"Hopefully we can finish strong with a gold medal on Friday night. After that, it's back to Buffalo to lock in for our senior year at D'Youville and keep building. I'm ready for whatever happens next in my life," said Strong.
Goldthorp added, "We hope everyone continues to tune in and watch the games, especially the potential gold medal game against the United States Friday night—which just so happens to fall on my birthday. What a way to celebrate!"
Team Canada has a record of 1-1 heading into the final game of round robin action where they will take on Scotland at 8 p.m. tonight. Team Canada fell to Team USA Monday evening by a score of 18-12 but rebounded with a 23-4 win over Team Australia. With the win tonight, it will put Team Canada as the No. 2 seed in the playoffs. Playoffs will begin Thursday evening with the bronze and gold medal games happening Friday evening.
"For both of these young men to get an opportunity to represent their country is astounding," said D'Youville University men's lacrosse head coach, Jack Wilson. "For both of them to also represent D'Youville University on this stage is nothing short of amazing. Since their arrival, both Hayden and Brody have been integral parts of building our program and Saints Lacrosse brand. I believe this shows where our program is headed, and with a heavy Canadian influence on our roster each year, I know this will not be last time D'Youville Lacrosse will be represented on this stage."
From small-town beginnings to the world stage, the duo's story is a powerful reminder of how friendship, resilience, and belief in each other can carry you farther than you ever imagined.
Two players. One dream. One jersey. One team. And memories that will last a lifetime.
To check the standings, schedules, and watch live, click here.
