Rapids vs. Mariners – A Playoff Showdown You Can’t Miss!

The Paugan Falls Rapids are gearing up for an exciting best-of-three playoff series against the Manotick Mariners, with Game 1 set for Saturday, February 15th, 2025 at 7:30 PM in Manotick, and Game 2 on Sunday, February 16th at 3:00 PM at the Gatineau Valley Arena in Low. Game 3 is scheduled for Monday night at 7:30 PM in Manotick if necessary. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the atmosphere is going to be electric!

A strong Opponent

The Manotick Mariners are undoubtedly a strong opponent, and this playoff series will test the Rapids like never before. The teams faced off four times in the regular season, with the Mariners winning three of those matchups. The most recent meeting on January 4th ended in a 6-4 win for the Mariners, while the Rapids managed to secure a 4-3 victory on December 14th in a tightly contested game. With the Mariners’ high-scoring offense and strong roster, the Rapids will have their work cut out for them as they prepare for this crucial series.

The Mariners come into the series with a 15-4-1 record and are tied for second in the league for goals scored, averaging 7.4 goals per game. In contrast, the Rapids have struggled with scoring this season, averaging 3.6 goals per game. However, the Rapids’ power play is currently second in the Eastern Conference with a 25.3% efficiency in comparison to Manotick’s 21.2%. The penalty kill will be an area to watch, where the Mariners hold the edge with an 82.9% success rate over the Rapids’ 77.2%.

Key Players to Watch

The Mariners’ first line is a formidable threat, featuring Jonathan Cyr (61 points in 19 games), Brett Gustavsen (57 points in 18 games), and Ryan Lough (52 points in 17 games). The Rapids will have their work cut out for them trying to shut down this offensive trio. For the Rapids, Etienne Champagne (28 points in 21 games), Ryan Peck (24 points in 19 games), and Cole Peck (20 points in 20 games) will need to continue their strong offensive production to keep pace with the Mariners. Additionally, Aidan Foley and Malcolm Patry will be key in goal, as their steady play will be crucial in keeping the Mariners’ high-scoring attack at bay.

The Importance of Home Ice

Game 2 at Gatineau Valley Arena is critical for the Rapids. The atmosphere at the arena during playoffs is second to none. The fans in Low create an incredibly tough environment for visiting teams, and the Rapids’ fan base has proven time and time again that they can make a difference. Fans will remember last year’s thrilling upset over the Bytown Royals and the unforgettable high-attendance game against the North Dundas Rockets. The Gatineau Valley Arena is a place where playoff dreams come to life—and the Rapids will need every fan’s support to take down the Mariners and move forward.

Exciting Fan Engagement

As always, there will be plenty of fan activities to keep the energy high:

  • Ronnie Rapid will be out in full force during the game and will certainly have some tricks up his sleeve!
  • The 50/50 draw is back, and playoff 50/50s have historically been higher than regular-season draws—so be sure to grab your tickets!
  • Chuck-a-Puck will be happening during the second intermission, giving fans a chance to win even more prizes.

Tickets & Attendance

  • $10 at the door
  • FREE for kids 12 and under – a perfect opportunity for families to experience the excitement of playoff hockey together!

Can the Rapids Pull Off the Underdog Story Again?

The Rapids come into this series as underdogs, but they’ve been in this position before and emerged victorious. Last year, Bryan Kealey’s overtime heroics helped the Rapids knock off the Bytown Royals and advance to the next round. Can they replicate that magic and upset the Mariners in similar fashion? It won’t be easy, but the Rapids have the heart, determination, and fan support to make it happen.

The Rapids are ready to fight tooth and nail for every win in this series, but they need you, the fans, to make it happen. Let’s pack the rink and give the team the support they need to keep the underdog story alive. You won’t want to miss the excitement—come out and cheer on your Paugan Falls Rapids as they battle for a spot in the next round of the playoffs!

Go Rapids Go!