Rapids Ready for Rivalry Weekend Against the Manotick Mariners

The Paugan Falls Rapids are gearing up for a huge rivalry weekend as they face the powerhouse Manotick Mariners in a home-and-home series — starting Friday night on the road, and concluding with a highly anticipated matchup on home ice Saturday, October 18th at 7:00 PM at the Gatineau Valley Arena.

After opening the season with two competitive outings, the Rapids (0–2–0) are looking to turn positive momentum into results. Despite the slow start, the team has shown flashes of strong offensive chemistry, with several newcomers making an immediate impact. The focus now turns to tightening up defensively as the Rapids prepare to host one of the league’s toughest opponents.

A Fierce Rivalry Renewed

Few rivalries in the NPHL have been as heated as Paugan Falls vs. Manotick. The two teams met four times in the regular season last year, with the Mariners taking three of the four meetings before the Rapids battled them again in the playoffs — both games tightly contested 3–2 and 5–3 losses. Fans can expect that intensity to return this weekend.

The Mariners have retooled over the offseason and now boast what many consider the most dangerous lineup in the league, featuring former NHL, AHL, ECHL, NCAA Division I, and U Sports talent. Key players to watch include Brett Gustavsen, Emile Poirier, and Jake Cardwell, each capable of changing the course of a game.

For the Rapids, Kevin Domingue is off to a strong start, recording a goal and an assist in his debut, while Aidan Foley’s steady play in net will be crucial to keeping Manotick’s high-powered offense in check. Fans may also see some new faces in the lineup this weekend as the Rapids look to shake things up.

Saturday Night in Low

Saturday’s home game promises to be a can’t-miss night of hockey and entertainment.

  • Doors open: 5:00 PM

  • Warm-up: 6:30 PM

  • Puck drop: 7:00 PM

Ronnie Rapid will be in the building, keeping the energy high and getting the crowd on their feet all game long. The national anthem will be performed by Gary Dahl, a professional classical and musical theatre singer with more than 45 years of experience, including touring with The Phantom of the Opera across Canada and internationally.

Flag bearers for the evening will be Wyatt Stevenson and Ethan Kealey.

The game is proudly sponsored by The Hill (Brennan’s Hill Restaurant & Bar), Burrough Lane Livestock, and Ryan’s Garage.

Tickets are available now on Frontdoor+, allowing fans to skip the line and scan in at the door. Tickets are also available at the gate for just $10 (cash), and kids 12 & under get in free.

Don’t Miss It

The Rapids will first travel to Manotick on Friday night for the opening game of the weekend doubleheader, before returning home for what promises to be an electric atmosphere in Low on Saturday night.

The rivalry is alive and well — and the Rapids are ready to give this star-studded Manotick roster a battle they won’t forget.

Come early, wear your Rapids gear, and get ready for another unforgettable night of Rapids hockey.