Rivermen Welcomed Canadian Players to Training Camp

Seven Canadian players arrived at Peoria Rivermen training camp on Monday following immigration delays.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Hockey

Rivermen Welcomed Canadian Players to Training Camp

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Seven Canadian-born players joined the Peoria Rivermen training camp at the Owens Center this past Monday. Their arrival followed a week of delays at the U.S.-Canada border caused by immigration paperwork issues.

Why it matters

The team roster saw significant movement as the organization prepared for the upcoming schedule. With the roster finalized, the club shifts focus to the regular season opener.

Seven Canadian-born players joined the training camp roster after immigration processing delays. This update occurred alongside the retirement of goaltender Jack Bostedt, who departed to pursue a banking career.

The players

Jack Bostedt

The former Peoria Rivermen goaltender retired from the team to accept a position in risk management in Wisconsin.

Peoria Rivermen

This professional hockey team competes in the SPHL and is currently preparing for their 2026-27 season.

The details

The Rivermen released goaltender Nick Grabko while welcoming back defenseman Kylar Fenton and forward T.J. Koufis. Meanwhile, multiple players including Mike Ferrandino, Connor Szmul, and Dylan Massie were released by various ECHL organizations.

Last week, Canadian players were delayed at the U.S.-Canada border.
Monday, the seven Canadian players arrived at training camp.
Saturday, the 2026-27 season opens at Quad City.

Season Trajectory

The arrival of these players bolsters the Rivermen lineup immediately before the 2026-27 SPHL season begins. This roster solidification is critical as the team prepares to travel to Quad City for the opener.

Fans will see an updated lineup on the ice this Saturday when the season begins at Quad City. The team's active roster adjustments follow a series of league-wide personnel moves across the ECHL and SPHL.

The takeaway

The team has successfully resolved its immigration-related roster delays just in time for the season start. Supporters should look for these new players to make an immediate impact during the opening weekend.