By: Sanjay Parker
The Toronto RUSH finally broke into the win column this past weekend, going 1–1 in a gusty two-game homestand against the DC Breeze and NY Empire. It wasn’t always pretty, but it was gritty—and the first win of the season is officially on the board.
Friday: DC Breeze 21 - RUSH 20
It was a winnable game. A late-game layout block from Mark Lloyd gave the RUSH a final chance to tie it, but a turnover in the wind ended it there. The defense generated turns, but the D-line struggled to convert—finishing just 33% of their break opportunities.
The conditions didn’t help, but the stat sheet tells the story: DC had three players with over 30 completions, compared to just one for Toronto. Their offensive consistency continues to make them one of the hardest teams to knock off.
Sunday: RUSH 22 - NY Empire 20
It took four games, but the first win of 2025 came at home, and it came against a perennial powerhouse. Toronto jumped out to an early lead before New York clawed their way back, tying it at the end of the third. But this time, the RUSH held their nerve.
Chemistry is starting to build, especially on the D-line, who dramatically improved their break efficiency from Friday. Tom’s tireless movement kept the crowd engaged, and Marty had what might be his breakout performance, commanding the pace and shape of the game instead of simply adapting to it.
With Luc Comire sidelined, Turbo took the reins and then some—racking up 57 completions, 5 assists, 5 second assists, and 488 throwing yards. Whether by design or necessity, Toronto’s offense wasn’t shy in the wind. Hammers, under cuts, and smart spacing created room to operate.
And then there was Arvids. The Latvian dynamo posted a game-high +7 and felt like a difference-maker every time he touched the disc. It was a complete team performance—and a much-needed one.
Unsung Hero
Coach Jamie wasn’t handed an easy start: a new role, a roster in transition, and plenty of pressure. But through three losses and growing pains, he kept the team grounded and focused. That first win is a credit to the work he’s done behind the scenes.
More to Come
Brandon Adibe is box-office. He might not be the tallest player out there, but he plays big—and he’s earned a spot on the field during crunch time. His physicality and self-belief are electric, even if his fire might test the boundaries of Spirit. Let’s just say... you’ll know when he scores. #COYS
Next Up: Montreal Royal
Next weekend marks the first of three matchups this season with our Canadian rivals. If Toronto wants to build something meaningful from this slow start, the path runs through Montreal. Momentum’s on our side—let’s see what we do with it.
