Fan Appreciation Night Brings Energy to Low Despite Loss

The Paugan Falls Rapids returned home Friday night for their first-ever Fan Appreciation Night, welcoming the South Stormont Mustangs to the Gatineau Valley Arena in front of a lively and engaged crowd.

While the night ultimately ended in a 9–3 loss on the scoreboard, the atmosphere inside the arena reflected exactly what Fan Appreciation Night was designed to celebrate — passionate fans, strong community support, and an unforgettable game-day experience.

Back-and-Forth Opening Period

The opening period featured fast-paced, back-and-forth hockey. The Mustangs struck first with goals from Griffin Patterson at 16:04 and Brendan Jacome at 11:22 to jump out to an early lead.

The Rapids answered in a big moment at 8:01, when Ryan Peck scored a shorthanded goal after a strong defensive play, with Carter Peck earning the assist. The goal energized the crowd and pulled the Rapids within one heading into the first intermission, trailing 2–1.

Rapids Push Back in the Second

South Stormont extended their lead early in the second period when Isaac Barr made it 3–1, but the Rapids responded once again.

At 7:39, William Dagenais buried a shot from the slot low on the blocker side after a crisp passing sequence with Etienne Champagne and Sam McLaughlin, marking Dagenais’ first goal in his first game as a Rapid. Despite the response, the Mustangs added two more goals from Marc Beckstead and Brendan Jacome, taking a 5–2 lead into the second intermission.

Mustangs Pull Away Late

The Mustangs took control in the third period, adding four more goals to extend their lead. The Rapids continued to battle, with Keon Trocolli-Roik scoring the lone third-period goal for the home side, but South Stormont closed out the game with a 9–3 victory.

Standout Performances

William Dagenais was named Rapids Player of the Game after a strong debut performance that included his first goal with the team. Ryan Peck earned third star of the game with a shorthanded goal, while Carter Peck recorded two assists and was noticeable throughout the night.

A Night for the Fans

Despite the result, Fan Appreciation Night delivered exactly what it promised. The crowd remained energetic throughout the game, and a first-intermission giveaway led by Ronnie Rapid was a major highlight, with merchandise flying into the stands and fans fully engaged.

Door prize winners included:

  • Rapids Merchandise Basket: Frank Monette

  • Ottawa Senators Tickets: Troy Beaupre

  • 2026–27 Season Tickets: Barb Pittaway

  • GVA Ice Time: Noah Desmarais

  • Signed Authentic Rapids Jersey: Wayne McLaughlin

Janet Egan performed the national anthem, while Mila Killeen, Charlot Rochon, Beatrice Rochon, and Kaylynn McGuinness served as flag bearers. Christine Leslie won the 50/50 draw, taking home $997, Darryl Mayer won Chuck-a-Puck, and the Rapids x CrossSmith team puck was claimed by Kelly Amon.

Looking Ahead

Fan Appreciation Night was proudly supported by Kelly’s Auto Parts, Johnson Autowreckers, and Proxim Pharmacy Gracefield.

The Rapids will hit the road this weekend for a rematch with the South Stormont Mustangs before returning home on January 24 to face the South Grenville Rangers at the Gatineau Valley Arena.