Exciting Weekend Ahead for the Rapids: Battle of Quebec and Return to Home Ice

The Paugan Falls Rapids are gearing up for a thrilling weekend of hockey with two highly anticipated matchups. On Friday, the Rapids travel to Shawville to take on the Pontiac Comets in the Battle of Quebec Part 2, and on Saturday, they return to home ice to face the undefeated North Dundas Rockets. With significant storylines surrounding both games, it’s a weekend no Rapids fan will want to miss.

Friday, November 29th: Battle of Quebec Part 2 in Shawville

The Rapids will square off against the Pontiac Comets in what promises to be a memorable showdown. The game is set to take place at the Shawville Arena during the annual Fish Findlay Classic hockey tournament, a storied event in the local hockey community. Adding to the excitement, the Comets are hosting a Jr. B Heritage Night to honour alumni from the former Shawville Pontiacs Jr. B team.

The Rapids have strong ties to the Pontiacs' legacy, with several players and staff—Nolan Peck, Bryan Kealey, Assistant Coach John Peck, and Josh Horner—having suited up for the Jr. B team in the past. This connection adds extra meaning to an already highly anticipated game.

The first-ever Battle of Quebec earlier this season was a nail-biter, with the Comets narrowly escaping with a 2-1 victory. Both teams were short-handed for that matchup, but Friday night promises to feature full lineups, ensuring fierce competition on the ice. The game is generating significant buzz, and there’s speculation it could set an attendance record for the Shawville Arena.

Message to Fans: The Rapids are encouraging their fans to make the trip to Shawville to cheer them on in what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting matchups of the season.

Puck Drop: 8:00 PM at the Shawville Arena

Saturday, November 30th: Rapids Return Home to Face the Undefeated Rockets

After a grueling five-game road trip, the Rapids are back on home ice at the Gatineau Valley Arena to take on the league’s top team, the North Dundas Rockets. Boasting an undefeated 8-0 record, the Rockets have been a powerhouse this season, fueled by several high-profile offseason acquisitions. Among their new additions are Mitch Gibson, Marco Azzano, Kyle Ward, and Eric Locke, four standout forwards acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Bytown Royals.

For the Rapids, this game carries extra weight. The Rockets eliminated them from the playoffs last season, and the team is eager for redemption. The matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle, with the Rapids looking to hand the Rockets their first loss of the season.

A Night of Giving: Teddy Bear Toss Returns
The Rapids are bringing back their annual Teddy Bear Toss after the first period. Last year, fans donated over 200 bears, which were distributed to local families and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) just in time for the holidays. This year, the team is hoping to surpass that total with the bears pledged to local families, local foyers and the Maison des Collines. Fans are encouraged to bring a stuffed bear to toss onto the ice at the end of the first period to support this heartwarming tradition.

Festivities and Sponsors
The excitement begins with the Low Christmas Parade at 5pm, and fans can look forward to a fantastic game-night experience.

• The anthem will be performed by Selina McCambley, adding a special touch to the evening.
• Flag bearers from Les Collines de l'Outaouais Minor Hockey are: Nikolas Riel, Franklin Ralph, Zephyr Hale and Maxime Martineau.
• Sponsors for the game include D&M Tilt N’ Load, The Hill, and Ryan’s Garage.

Puck Drop: 7:00 PM at the Gatineau Valley Arena

A Pivotal Weekend for the Rapids

This weekend presents the Rapids with two critical opportunities: to secure a win in the storied Battle of Quebec rivalry and to prove their mettle against the undefeated Rockets. With plenty of excitement on and off the ice, it’s the perfect time for fans to rally behind the Rapids.

Go Rapids Go!