Dynamic Duo: Di Iorio and Edwards Lead the Rookie Charge
In their debut season in the OHL, Alessandro Di Iorio and Beckham Edwards have already begun to make a lasting impression, showcasing the skill and potential that have made them two of the most exciting young prospects in the league. Garnering over a combined 80 points, the two 2008-born rookies have already made an impact with the Sting.
Pictured – Alessandro Di Iorio #17 for the Sarnia Sting
Alessandro Di Iorio, drafted second overall in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection, came into his rookie season with the Sarnia Sting after a standout career with the Vaughan Kings. Known for his high hockey IQ and responsible two-way game, Di Iorio quickly adjusted to the OHL level and became a reliable player at both ends of the ice.
He finished his first OHL season with 11 goals and 27 assists for 38 points—impressive numbers for a rookie forward. But it’s not just his offense that stands out. Di Iorio is trusted in all situations: he backchecks hard, plays smart defensively, and doesn’t shy away from battling for the puck.
Before joining the Sting, Di Iorio spent several seasons with the Vaughan Kings AAA program, where he developed into a top prospect. His leadership and consistency with the Kings made him a player to watch heading into his draft year, and he hasn’t disappointed.
Internationally, Di Iorio represented Canada Red at the 2024 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, where he won silver and recorded 2 goals and 2 assists in 4 games. His performance on the international stage showed he could perform under pressure and contribute at a high level against the best players his age. He was also named OHL Rookie of the Week during the season, further proving that his strong play wasn’t going unnoticed.
Di Iorio’s combination of hockey sense, defensive responsibility, and offensive upside makes him a well-rounded player with a very bright future ahead in junior hockey and beyond.
Pictured – Beckham Edwards #81 for the Sarnia Sting
Beckham Edwards has quickly become one of the most impactful rookies in the OHL this season. Drafted in the 3rd round, 46th overall in 2024, he finished his first year with an impressive 25 goals and 20 assists for 45 points. With a strong shot, great skating, and a nose for the net, Edwards has made a name for himself as a consistent offensive threat—and a player who shows up in big moments.
Two standout moments from this season highlight exactly what he brings to the ice. In December, Edwards scored the Sting’s Teddy Bear Toss goal—his 12th of the season—sending the Sarnia crowd into a frenzy as stuffed animals rained down in celebration. Then on New Year’s Day, he sealed an unforgettable win over the London Knights with an overtime game-winner—an exclamation point on an already strong rookie campaign.
Before arriving in Sarnia, Edwards played for the Detroit Little Caesars AAA program and had originally planned to continue his hockey career in the U.S. He tendered with the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms and seemed set on the NCAA route. But before the OHL changed its rules around NCAA eligibility, Edwards made the decision to come back to Canada and suit up for the Sting.
He also represented Team Canada White at the 2024 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, where he helped capture gold. Throughout the season, he was named OHL Rookie of the Week twice, proving his consistency and ability to produce at a high-level right from the start.
With his scoring touch, playmaking ability, and natural feel for the game, Beckham Edwards has all the tools to be a star in the OHL—and he’s already become a fan favourite in Sarnia.
With standout rookies like Alessandro Di Iorio and Beckham Edwards leading the charge, the Sarnia Sting are building a bright future. Alongside them, players like Hughston Hurt, Ruslan Karimov, Liam Beamish, and Ryan Brown are also making their mark. This group of young talent brings a combination of skill, grit, and hockey IQ that’s helping shape a new identity for the team. Hurt provides a steady, physical presence on defense, while Karimov impresses with his poise and puck-moving ability. Beamish adds playmaking and offensive creativity, and Brown brings grit and reliability in all situations.
Together, this talented core is helping the Sting become faster, more competitive, and more exciting to watch. With continued growth, Sarnia is a team to watch for years to come. The future is already taking shape, and it looks incredibly promising.
