The Ottawa Black Bears are gearing up for their second season in the National Lacrosse League (NLL), and fans are eager to see if the team can secure a coveted playoff spot after narrowly missing out last year.
From New York to Ottawa: A Franchise Reborn
The Black Bears' journey to the Canadian capital began on February 21, 2024, when the league announced the relocation of the New York RipTide franchise. The team is co-owned by GF Sports and Entertainment and Senators Sports & Entertainment, the same group that owns the NHL's Ottawa Senators. All home games continue to be hosted at the Canadian Tire Centre.
Building on a Solid Debut Season
In their inaugural 2024-25 season, the Black Bears finished with an 8-10 record, leaving them tied for ninth place and just one game short of a playoff berth. Interestingly, this mirrored the team's final season as the New York RipTide, which also ended with an 8-10 record and a near-miss of the postseason.
The 2025-26 campaign kicks off with a home game against the San Diego Seals on November 29. A major front-office shift occurred on August 14, with the announcement that Dan MacRae would take over as the team's new head coach and general manager.
Ottawa's Lacrosse Legacy
This is not the city's first foray into professional box lacrosse. The Ottawa Rebel played three seasons in the NLL starting in 2001. Their tenure was challenging, amassing only nine victories against 37 losses. After a one-year suspension announced on July 30, 2003, the franchise was permanently moved to Edmonton.
The Black Bears now carry the torch for professional lacrosse in Ottawa, aiming to write a new and more successful chapter for the sport in the city.
