All Roads Lead to Low on October 11th: Rapids Home Opener to Deliver a Night to Remember

The wait is almost over. On Saturday, October 11th, the Paugan Falls Rapids return home to the Gatineau Valley Arena for their 2025–26 Home Opener, and this year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest night in team history.

From a live anthem performance by Lyndon Slewidge, to rally towels for the first 500 fans, a smoke-and-light show, and a ceremonial puck drop featuring former NHL defenseman Jim Kyte, every moment of the evening promises to celebrate the spirit, passion, and pride of the Gatineau Valley community.

A Full Night of Entertainment

Doors open at 5:00 PM, with warm-up starting at 6:30 PM and puck drop at 7:00 PM. Fans are encouraged to arrive early — not only to secure a rally towel, but also to experience the pre-game show and festivities that make Rapids hockey the heartbeat of the Valley.

The Rapids will face off against the newly relocated Shawville Pontiacs, who moved from Fort-Coulonge this offseason, keeping the Battle of Quebec alive and well. With both teams introducing new-look lineups, it’s a fitting stage for the Rapids to showcase newcomers Kevin Domingue, Braeden Pearl, Keon Troccoli-Roik, and Ric Shin in their first home appearances.

Lyndon Slewidge: A Legendary Voice come to the gatineau Valley arena

The Rapids are honoured to welcome Lyndon Slewidge, the legendary anthem singer best known for his decades-long tenure with the Ottawa Senators. Famous for his powerful and heartfelt renditions of O Canada, Slewidge’s voice has echoed through NHL arenas across the country — and now it will fill the Gatineau Valley Arena.

“Since we started, it’s always been a dream of mine for Lyndon Slewidge to come and sing the anthem,” said Mike Lachapelle, the Rapids’ Director of Game Day Operations. “And now Saturday, it’s going to be a reality — I’m excited for everyone in Low to experience that. Lyndon is one of the best anthem singers in the NHL.”

This will mark the first time Slewidge performs in Low, making it a once-in-a-generation moment for fans of all ages.

Jim Kyte: A Trailblazer Takes Center Ice

Adding to the star power, the Rapids are honoured to welcome Jim Kyte as the guest of honour for opening night.

A first-round pick of the Winnipeg Jets in 1982 (12th overall), Kyte went on to play over 600 NHL games with the Jets, Pittsburgh Penguins, Calgary Flames, Ottawa Senators, and San Jose Sharks. He remains celebrated as the only legally deaf player in NHL history, and his career stands as a powerful story of perseverance, leadership, and breaking barriers.

Kyte will perform the ceremonial puck drop, officially ushering in a new season of Rapids hockey — a moment that fans won’t soon forget.

RCMP Honour Guard

Two RCMP officers in full ceremonial uniform will escort both Slewidge and Kyte to center ice for the national anthem and puck drop, bringing an added layer of tradition and pride to the night. Their participation symbolizes unity, respect, and the deep community values that define Rapids hockey.

Rally Towels for the First 500 Fans

Thanks to Ronald O’Connor Construction and The Embroidery Shack, the first 500 spectators through the doors will receive a free white Rapids rally towel — a special giveaway that will bring the crowd to life during introductions and key moments throughout the game. 

A team of passionate volunteers helped make the project possible, connecting sponsors and ensuring that the idea became reality. The Rapids extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to this initiative.

Fans are encouraged to wave their towels proudly, creating a sea of white that will electrify the arena from start to finish, and at games all season long!

Smoke, Lights, and Lineup Intros

As the lights dim and the Rapids prepare to take the ice, fans will be treated to a special smoke and light show that adds a professional, theatrical flair to the pregame experience.

Developed under the direction of Mike Lachapelle, the production will highlight each player’s name and number as they’re introduced — a grand entrance worthy of a season opener.

Combined with the roar of the crowd and the shimmer of rally towels, it will be a sight to remember.

Ronnie Rapid Leads the Charge

The Rapids’ beloved mascot Ronnie Rapid will also be back in action, this time with a brand-new custom beaver stick flag — built, naturally, from a “tree he cut down with his teeth.” Ronnie will be available early in the evening for photos with kids and families, helping to set the tone for a fun, family-friendly night filled with laughter, cheers, and Rapids pride.

Between periods, fans can enjoy Chuck-a-Puck, a 50/50 draw, and plenty of other surprises throughout the night.

Tickets, Jerseys & Season Pass Pickup

The Home Opener is proudly sponsored by Ronald O’Connor Construction, John McLaughlin Motors, and Mark Ryan Real Estate.

Tickets are available at the door (cash) or online through Frontdoor+.
Kids 12 and under get in free.

Fans who have not yet picked up their season tickets can do so at the front door, and replica jerseys will also be available for fans and sponsors to collect on site.

A Night Worth the Wait

Between the energy of the fans, the return of Ronnie Rapid, and the special guests taking the stage, October 11th promises to be more than just a hockey game — it’s a celebration of everything the Rapids stand for: community, passion, and pride.

With Slewidge’s voice echoing through the arena, Kyte dropping the puck, and hundreds of rally towels waving through the smoke and lights, this is one night you won’t want to miss.

Arrive early. Be loud. Pack the rink. Go Rapids Go!