A Home Opener to Remember: Rapids Thrill Packed GVA in Shootout Classic

It was a night to remember at the Gatineau Valley Arena.

A standing-room-only crowd of 543 fans packed the GVA on Saturday night as the Paugan Falls Rapids welcomed the South Stormont Mustangs for their highly anticipated 2026–27 home opener.

From an emotional pre-game ceremony honouring Scott Mahoney to eight goals, spectacular saves, and the first shootout in Rapids history, Saturday's home opener delivered an unforgettable night of hockey.

Although the Mustangs eventually prevailed 5–4 in the shootout, the Rapids put together one of their most entertaining performances in recent memory, giving the home crowd plenty to cheer about from start to finish.

Rapids Come Flying Out of the Gate

The Rapids wasted no time giving the packed GVA something to celebrate.

Just 35 seconds into the opening period, Etienne Champagne buried a rebound past Mustangs goaltender J-P Tourigny, with Declan Flanagan and Ryan Peck picking up the assists.

The celebration had barely settled before Colin Ratt doubled the lead just under three minutes into the game, picking the top corner with a beautiful short-side shot to make it 2–0.

The early goals set the tone for an exciting opening period, with the Rapids coming out strong against one of the NPHL's most talented rosters.

South Stormont got on the board midway through the second period when Michael Poirier scored to cut the Rapids' lead to 2–1.

But the Rapids responded with another offensive burst.

With 2:42 remaining in the middle frame, Ryan Peck restored the two-goal advantage, finishing rebound assisted by Keon Troccoli-Roik and Charlie Olmsted.

Just 18 seconds later, Chiwetin Blacksmith brought the crowd to its feet with a highlight-reel goal, extending the Rapids' lead to 4–1.

The Mustangs answered before the intermission, with Justin McRae making it 4–2 heading into the third.

South Stormont continued to press in the final period, getting goals from Mitchell Gibson and Adam Beveridge to even the score at 4–4.

With neither team able to find the winner through the remainder of regulation or overtime, the game headed somewhere the Rapids had never been before: a shootout.

A Historic First Shootout

For the first time in franchise history, the Rapids would decide a game in a shootout.

Blacksmith continued his impressive night by scoring on the Rapids' opening attempt, giving the home crowd another highlight-reel moment.

Justin McRae answered for South Stormont in the second round, and the two teams continued trading opportunities as the shootout stretched into a fifth round.

Eventually, Liam Markhauser scored the deciding goal to give the Mustangs the 5–4 victory.

Despite the result, the shootout provided a thrilling conclusion to an already outstanding night of hockey.

Rapids goaltender Aidan Foley was exceptional throughout the contest, turning aside 55 shots and earning first-star honours with a .932 save percentage.

Blacksmith was another standout for Paugan Falls, scoring in regulation and adding a spectacular shootout goal.

Ryan Peck finished with a goal and two assists, while Etienne Champagne opened the scoring just 35 seconds into the game.

Scott Mahoney Honoured with Community Builder Award

One of the evening's most memorable moments came before puck drop, when the Rapids surprised longtime community volunteer Scott Mahoney with the Paugan Falls Rapids Community Builder Award, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to sports and community life throughout the Gatineau Valley.

Rapids Head Coach and General Manager Randy Peck took to the ice to present the special recognition, highlighting Mahoney's years of dedication to the Gatineau Valley Arena, the local men's ball league, and his involvement in organizing hockey tournaments, ball tournaments, golf tournaments, and countless community fundraisers.

Mahoney, who was unaware of the planned presentation, was greeted with a standing ovation from the entire arena as hundreds of fans rose to their feet to thank him for his years of service.

The recognition was a reminder of the tremendous impact that dedicated volunteers have on our community. From local sports leagues to fundraising events, so many of the activities that bring people together in the Gatineau Valley depend on individuals willing to give their time and energy.

The Rapids are proud to recognize Scott Mahoney for his outstanding contributions and thank him for everything he continues to do for our community.

A Packed House and an Electric Atmosphere

Saturday's home opener was about much more than the action on the ice.

The evening began with the return of the Rapids' signature smoke and light show, as players made their way onto the ice in front of a packed and enthusiastic home crowd.

Local musician Kimberley Gabie performed the national anthem, while young flag bearers Levi Robitaille, Parker Chamberlain, Warne Bohart and William Bougie helped kick off the festivities.

With 543 fans in attendance and standing room only throughout the arena, the atmosphere was outstanding from the opening introductions to the final shootout attempt.

The Rapids' new merchandise collection was also a hit, with fans sporting the team's new retro apparel throughout the building.

At the front entrance, fans had the opportunity to sign up for the Rapids' email list and receive an additional entry into a draw for a new retro hat and shirt. The promotion will continue at next Saturday's home game, with the winner being selected during the second intermission.

There were plenty of winners off the ice as well.

Melanie Kealey took home an impressive $1,205 in the Rapids' 50/50 draw, while Sheriff Bacara claimed the Chuck-a-Puck prize.

During the first intermission, Wyatt Stevenson was the winner of the Rapids' Find the Flag challenge.

The Rapids would also like to extend a special thank-you to Saturday's game sponsors, Matériaux de Construction Beausoleil, KazaDecor, and Century 21 CrossSmith Team, for their generous support.

And, of course, thank you to all the volunteers, game-day staff, sponsors and supporters who helped make the evening such a success.

Back at the GVA Next Saturday

The Rapids won't have to wait long for another opportunity to entertain the home crowd.

The Rapids return to the Gatineau Valley Arena next Saturday, October 24, when they welcome the Shawville Pontiacs for a 7:00 p.m. puck drop.

Fans can look forward to another exciting night of senior hockey, along with the return of the Rapids' game-day entertainment, merchandise shop, and promotional giveaways.

Paugan Falls Rapids vs. Shawville Pontiacs

Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 7:00 p.m.

Gatineau Valley Arena

Tickets are $10, and children 12 and under get in free.

After an unforgettable home opener, we're looking forward to seeing everyone back at the GVA next Saturday.

Go Rapids Go! 🌊