Eisenbarth enjoying last Junior season with Ice Dogs
Elias Eisenbarth knows his days in a Dryden GM Ice Dogs uniform are limited, but he’s enjoying the ride while he’s on it.
The Medicine Hat, Alberta forward is in his final year of junior hockey and considers it an honour to serve as the Captain during the anniversary season of the Ice Dogs franchise and the Superior International Junior Hockey League (SIJHL).
“It’s been super fun, the guys are absolutely amazing and eager to play everyday. I wouldn’t say that I have been treated any differently. The city and the team have been so supportive and welcoming, its made the transition smooth,” said Eisenbarth.
The Superior International Junior Hockey League (SIJHL) is celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2025-2026. Similarly, the Dryden GM Ice Dogs are commemorating their 25th year as the league’s oldest and most decorated franchise.
“As players we absolutely think about it,” Eisenbarth acknowledged. “It’s definitely something we take pride in as an organization. We are looking to represent the city of Dryden to the best of our abilities and make the people here proud. It’s such a loyal and welcoming fanbase who deserve nothing less than that.”
Eisenbarth points to his team hitting it’s stride in October (8-0-2-0) and November (5-2-0-0) and finished December with a 4-1 record, good for first place in the standings heading into the New Year.
Eisenbarth notes that it’s hard to pinpoint a few guys that have helped the Ice Dogs get to where they are at this moment, adding “Everyone on the team has been amazing and has brought something to the table that helps us as a group. It allows everyone to play their game and be successful within their roles. I’d just say that as a team we have had a good season so far and look to keep building upon it.”
Eisenbarth hit the 100-game mark in the regular season against the Fort Frances Lakers, collecting three points (1G, 2A) in a 6-5 overtime victory.
His regular season debut was also against the Lakers on September 9, 2023.
Eisenbarth acknowledged that hitting the milestone made him reflect on his first game with the Ice Dogs on September 9, 2023.
“It has been an awesome ride for the past three years,” Eisenbarth noted. “I’m just trying to cherish and enjoy the games that are remaining. It really puts the amount of time that’s been spent at the rink and with the guys into perspective. I’m fortunate and grateful that all 100 games have been in an Ice Dogs jersey. I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.”
Eisenbarth would love to continue playing hockey in 2026/2027 and has been looking into post-secondary options that will allow him to do that.
JANUARY 2026 SCHEDULE
Tuesday 13th vs. Red Lake Miners
Friday 16th vs. Ironwood Lumberjacks
Saturday 17th vs. Ironwood Lumberjacks
Tuesday 20th @ Dryden GM Ice Dogs
Friday 23rd vs. Red Lake Miners
Saturday 24th @ Red Lake Miners
