Ottawa Charge Fans React to Potential Move to Canadian Tire Centre
Ottawa Charge fans are expressing a range of emotions as discussions between the Professional Women's Hockey League and the Ottawa Senators could lead to the team playing home games at the Canadian Tire Centre in Kanata. While some supporters see the move to a larger arena as an opportunity for growth, others worry that attendance might suffer due to the venue's location in the city's west end.
Senators Confirm Positive Dialogue with PWHL
The Ottawa Senators confirmed this past week that they are engaged in talks with PWHL officials regarding a lease agreement for the Charge to use the Canadian Tire Centre. In a statement, the NHL club emphasized its commitment to fostering hockey development in the Ottawa-Gatineau community, stating, "We can confirm we've had positive dialogue with the PWHL and the Ottawa Charge, which is consistent with our desire to grow the game for women, men and youth in our Ottawa-Gatineau community."
Venue Options and Fan Concerns
PWHL officials have clarified that the Charge will not play at the new Lansdowne 2.0 arena, which was approved by city council in October. This alternative would have reduced the home crowd capacity by more than 2,000 seats to approximately 6,500. Amy Scheer, vice-president of business operations for the PWHL, previously told the Ottawa Citizen that all options were being considered, including the possibility of moving the team out of Ottawa entirely. However, she expressed a strong desire to keep the franchise in the city, citing the supportive fanbase.
For season-ticket holder Pat Farley, the news of discussions between the PWHL and the Senators is a reassuring sign that the Charge will likely remain in Ottawa. Despite living in the east end, Farley stated that a relocation to the 17,000-seat Canadian Tire Centre would not prevent him from renewing his season tickets. "We need room to grow, and the Canadian Tire Centre is a perfect spot for that," he said. "The fanbase and the people will follow no matter what, and we've proven that tons of times."
Attendance and Future Prospects
This season, the Charge has drawn an average of 7,280 fans across eight games at TD Place, with weekend contests averaging above 8,000 attendees. The potential move to a larger arena like the Canadian Tire Centre could accommodate this growing interest, but it also raises questions about whether fans will travel to Kanata. The mixed reactions highlight the balancing act between expanding the team's reach and maintaining its current supporter base.
