Students from Ottawa schools experienced a day they will not soon forget, trading their classrooms for the ice at the Canadian Tire Centre. On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, they shared the rink with players from the city's beloved NHL team, the Ottawa Senators.
A Memorable Day on NHL Ice
The event provided a unique opportunity for the young hockey fans to interact with professional athletes in an informal setting. The highlight for many was meeting and skating alongside Senators captain Brady Tkachuk, who took time to sign autographs and chat with the participants. The sight of students gliding across the same ice where their hockey heroes compete was a powerful community moment.
Community Engagement in Action
This initiative underscores the Ottawa Senators' ongoing commitment to connecting with the local community. Events like these are designed to inspire youth, promote physical activity, and foster a lifelong love for the sport of hockey. The smiles and excitement witnessed at the Canadian Tire Centre demonstrated the positive impact of such outreach programs.
While the specific schools involved were not detailed in the initial report, the activity was documented by CTV News Ottawa. Photographer Peter Szperling captured images of the event, including a poignant moment where Brady Tkachuk signed a student's jersey right on the ice surface.
More Than Just a Skate
Beyond the fun and games, these interactions serve as a significant morale booster for both the students and the players. For the Senators, it's a chance to give back to the fans who support them throughout the season. For the students, it's an inspirational experience that bridges the gap between watching the game on TV and being part of its culture.
The December 17th skate at the Canadian Tire Centre stands as a testament to the role professional sports teams can play in enriching their local communities. It created lasting memories for Ottawa's youth and strengthened the bond between the team and its next generation of fans.
