Hundreds of fans gathered in downtown Kitchener on Tuesday to give the Ontario Hockey League champion Rangers a rousing sendoff as they departed for the Memorial Cup tournament in Kelowna, British Columbia. The team, which clinched the OHL title last week, boarded a bus amid cheers and applause from supporters who lined the streets to wish them well.
Celebrations capture community spirit
CTV News reporter Jeff Pickel was on hand to document the festivities, which included a parade of fans waving banners and flags. The Rangers, who are making their first Memorial Cup appearance since 2008, will face off against the host Kelowna Rockets and other top junior hockey teams from across Canada.
Community support for the champions
Mayor Berry Vrbanovic addressed the crowd, praising the team's dedication and the community's unwavering support. "This is a moment of pride for Kitchener," he said. "Our Rangers have shown incredible skill and determination, and we are behind them every step of the way."
The Rangers' journey to the Memorial Cup has been marked by strong performances in the playoffs, including a decisive victory in the OHL final. Fans expressed confidence in the team's ability to compete at the national level.
Other local news highlights
In other news from the region, an 8-year-old Ontario boy accidentally spent $2,000 on his grandmother's credit card while playing Roblox. The family is now seeking a refund from the gaming platform. Meanwhile, a rollover crash in Brampton left one driver in critical condition, and police are investigating.
Additionally, CTV News obtained CCTV footage from inside a Vancouver nightclub where an alleged assault by off-duty VPD officers occurred. The investigation is ongoing.
