Josh Dawick

Josh DawickThe Homegrown Talent Who Turned Adversity Into Opportunity
Position: Forward
Shoots: Right
Hometown: Oakville, Ontario
Current MSL Team: Oakville Rock
NLL Team: Toronto Rock

Staying the Course

Not every journey to professional lacrosse is a straight line.

Josh Dawick has experienced the highs of being one of Ontario's top junior prospects, the disappointment of serious injury, and the challenge of proving himself at every level. Through it all, one thing has remained constant—his determination to keep getting better.

Today, Dawick has become one of the brightest young offensive players in Major Series Lacrosse and the National Lacrosse League, representing his hometown organization while continuing to grow into one of the game's most complete right-handed forwards.

Early Years

Growing up in Oakville, Dawick was surrounded by lacrosse.

He developed through the Oakville Hawks minor system, where his combination of shooting ability, lacrosse IQ, and competitive drive quickly made him one of the province's premier young players. Along the way, he captured four national championships with Team Ontario, experiences that helped shape both his confidence and his understanding of high-level competition.

Climbing the Ladder

Dawick began his Junior A career with the Toronto Beaches before moving to the Whitby Warriors, where he developed into one of the OJLL's most dangerous offensive players. His ability to score from distance, finish around the crease, and create for teammates made him a constant threat.

His path wasn't without setbacks.

A significant knee injury interrupted his development during the shortened 2021 season, costing him valuable playing time at a crucial stage of his career. Rather than allowing the injury to define him, Dawick attacked his rehabilitation and returned with renewed confidence and maturity.

NCAA Career

Dawick continued his career at the University of Denver, one of the premier NCAA lacrosse programs.

Although injuries limited his time with the Pioneers, the experience of competing at the Division I level broadened his understanding of the game and prepared him for the professional ranks.

National Lacrosse League

Selected 28th overall by the Toronto Rock in the 2022 NLL Entry Draft, Dawick steadily earned a larger role within one of the league's premier organizations.

His growth has been impressive.

After breaking into the lineup, he developed into a dependable offensive contributor, showing the confidence to take big shots while creating opportunities for teammates. His breakout seasons proved he belonged among the league's emerging young stars.

An important turning point came when Dawick represented Austria at the World Box Lacrosse Championship. Taking on a leadership role helped him rediscover the confidence that had been slowed by injury, and he returned to Toronto with a new level of maturity and offensive command.

Major Series Lacrosse

Being selected by the Oakville Rock was a special moment for Dawick.

Chosen third overall in the 2022 MSL Draft, he joined the organization he had grown up watching and quickly became an important part of its young core. Coaches have praised his ability to score from anywhere on the floor, while his vision and lacrosse IQ have made him just as dangerous as a playmaker.

As his career continues to develop, Dawick represents the future of both the Oakville Rock and Major Series Lacrosse.

Beyond the Floor

Dawick's impact extends beyond playing.

He has worked with Lacrosse Canada as a Sponsorship Coordinator, helping grow the sport off the floor while continuing his own playing career. It's another example of his commitment to giving back to the game that has shaped his life.

By the Numbers

Hometown: Oakville, Ontario
Position: Forward
Shoots: Right
Minor Association: Oakville Hawks
Junior Teams: Toronto Beaches, Whitby Warriors
College: University of Denver
NLL Draft: 28th Overall (2022)
NLL Team: Toronto Rock
MSL Team: Oakville Rock
International: Austria (World Box Lacrosse Championship)

Gary Groob's Take

Josh Dawick's story reminds me that development isn't always measured by points.

He's had to overcome adversity at a stage when many young players are simply focused on getting stronger and faster. Injuries can derail careers, but in Josh's case they seem to have strengthened his resolve. Every time I watch him now, I see a player who believes in his abilities and isn't afraid to take responsibility when the game is on the line.

What also stands out is that he's a hometown success story. Growing up in Oakville, playing for the Oakville Rock, and then wearing the Toronto Rock sweater is something every young player in the community can relate to. Those connections matter.

I don't think we've seen the best of Josh Dawick yet. His game continues to evolve, and with every season he looks more comfortable at the highest level. If his progression continues, I believe he'll be one of the players helping shape the next era of Major Series Lacrosse.

— Gary Groob