By: Sanjay Parker
It’s a huge weekend at home for the RUSH.
Toronto hosts the DC Breeze at 7pm on Friday, May 30, followed by the NY Empire at 2pm on Sunday, June 1. After a rocky 0–3 start, this doubleheader is more than just a chance to get into the win column—it’s an opportunity to reset the season’s tone in front of the home crowd.
The roster will be near full strength for the first time this year, with Canada’s World Games players finally back in the mix. And making his long-awaited return? RUSH legend Mark Lloyd, suiting up at Varsity for the first time since 2018. With the forecast looking clear and the stands likely packed, this is shaping up to be a marquee weekend for Toronto ultimate.
Friday: DC Breeze (2–2)
The Breeze are off to a middling start by their standards, and just like Toronto, they’ve got something to prove. This is a rematch of our season opener—a tight one-goal loss that could have gone either way.
The key stat? DC's endzone conversion. When they win, they hit at an 87% clip. When they lose, that drops to just 59%. Toronto's D-line will need to pressure those final throws and capitalize on any hesitation near the red zone. Keep an eye on the rematch between Arvids and AJ Merriman—two big-impact players who had some highlight clips in the first game.
Sunday: NY Empire (4–3)
It’s rare to call the Empire anything but dominant, but at 4–3, they’ve looked human this season. They squeaked out a one-point win over Philly last weekend and have dropped games where their deep game faltered—specifically, when their huck completion dipped below 70%.
That could be the key on Sunday: limit their space, challenge their early looks, and force them to grind. The talent is still there, but they’re not the unbeatable juggernaut of years past.
Unsung Hero
Mike Mackenzie does a bit of everything. He may not lead any one stat category, but he shows up on every line with quiet consistency. Whether it’s an under, a reset, or a late-point block, Mike is the kind of steady presence who changes games without needing the spotlight.
More to Come
Oscar Stonehouse has long been a fan favourite—his tenacity, flair, and unwillingness to give up on a play make him must-watch every time he’s on the field. In 2025, with chemistry building and his role expanding, he’s in position to give RUSH fans even more to cheer about.
Looking Ahead
Make no mistake: it’s a tough doubleheader. But with no travel, real spring weather at last, and a near-complete roster, this weekend could be just what the RUSH need to shift momentum.
Toronto has the pieces. Now it’s time to put them together.
