The Ottawa Charge are heading back to Canadian Tire Centre for an April 3 meeting with Montreal. With their future arena status unknown, could more games be coming at the Canadian Tire Centre?
On Thursday, the Ottawa Charge announced they will play their first game of the season at the Canadian Tire Centre on Friday, April 3 against the Montreal Victoire.
With the league continuing to explore options for the team after the city’s decision to reduce seating in a new arena, fans could see more games shift to the larger venue in the future. The Canadian Tire Centre could also become Ottawa's new home venue once their current lease expires.
"I’m really excited for the opportunity to return to Canadian Tire Centre," said Rebecca Leslie via press release. "I grew up in Ottawa. I have fond memories at that rink, whether it was attending Sens games, playing in the Bell Capital Cup, watching the Women’s Worlds in 2013 or playing in the PWHPA showcase. Being able to return there as a member of the Charge for the second time is really special. We’re excited for our fans to bring the noise and energy to CTC like they did last year."
This game won't be the first time that these two teams have faced off against one another at the Canadian Tire Centre. Last season, the Victoire edged the Charge 2-1 at Canadian Tire Centre in front of 11,065 fans. Marie-Philip Poulin and Mikyla Grant-Mentis scored for the visitors, while Ashton Bell responded for Ottawa.
The night will also mark the team's second bobblehead game of the season, as the first 6,000 fans will receive a limited edition Emily Clark bobblehead.
The Ottawa Charge currently sit two points behind fourth-place New York Sirens and one regulation win behind Victoire. Ottawa returns to the ice following the Olympic break to face the Boston Fleet on February 28.