Ottawa Charge Passes Major Test with Record Crowd and Kazoo Chants
In a pivotal moment for professional women's hockey in the nation's capital, the Ottawa Charge faced a crucial test on Friday night at the Canadian Tire Centre. With more than 17,000 fans packing the arena, the team not only set a new league attendance record in Ottawa but also showcased the vibrant fan culture that could define its future home.
A Resounding Success Despite the Scoreline
The atmosphere was electric as 17,114 supporters filled the seats, answering key questions about the team's viability in a larger venue located over 25 kilometres west of downtown Ottawa. Despite a 3-0 loss to the Montreal Victoire, the result did little to dampen the spirits of the crowd. Kazoo rally cries echoed throughout the building, hand-drawn signs adorned every corner, and between-whistle singalongs and dance parties continued long after the music stopped.
From a fan's perspective, it was everything that makes a Charge game special—only amplified by twice as many people participating in beloved traditions. Players and coaches from both teams remarked on the incredible noise level, with Victoire head coach Kori Cheverie noting it was difficult to communicate during TV timeouts due to the roaring crowd.
Community Support Shines Through
For Ottawa native Rebecca Leslie, the record-setting crowd held extra significance. "It was really special to see the community come out to support us," she said. "Growing up here, I knew how special the women's hockey community was, and then to see it tonight is really special. We have the best fans in the league."
The event served as an informal audition for the Canadian Tire Centre as a potential permanent home for the Charge. With PWHL executives indicating the team will not continue at Lansdowne after Ottawa city council approved a downsized arena plan reducing capacity to 5,500, the search for a new venue has intensified.
Future Home Considerations
Canadian Tire Centre has emerged as a frontrunner in this search. Both the PWHL and the Ottawa Senators have confirmed that discussions are moving toward a lease agreement that would see the Charge sharing the Senators' home venue in coming seasons. If a deal is finalized for the Charge to relocate to Kanata, it is also expected that the team would become a tenant at the Senators' new arena at LeBreton Flats—though that plan remains at least five years away.
Friday night's game demonstrated that Charge fans are ready to embrace this potential change. The overwhelming turnout and enthusiastic atmosphere suggest that the Canadian Tire Centre could indeed become a true home for the team, fostering the same community spirit that has defined the Charge's identity.
