What to expect when going to your first Ottawa Charge game

Are you ready to get charged up, Ottawa? It’s time to plug into one of the most electrifying hockey experiences with the 2025-2026 season with the Ottawa Charge at TD Place.  

Whether you’re a lifelong hockey fan or looking for a new experience and a chance to support women in sport, the Ottawa Charge have energized a whole new generation of fans of the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). It’s fast-paced and physical hockey, boosted with the buzzing energy of passionate fans and peppered with minute-by-minute memorable moments.  

Not sure what to expect (aside from roaring crowds and some of the best hockey you’ll see this year)? We’ve got you covered. We spoke to Charge captain and forward Brianne Jenner, forwards Rebecca Leslie and Gabbie Hughes and defender Jocelyne Laroqcue to pot a goal with insider knowledge on the PWHL and the Ottawa Charge.  

Here is everything you can expect when going to your first Ottawa Charge game.  

The thrill of having the Professional Women’s Hockey League 

The Ottawa Charge is one of eight teams in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), which showcases the best women's hockey players from around the globe. The league was founded in 2023 and began its inaugural season in January 2024. The league is fast-growing, with two new expansion teams introduced this year for the third season. 

As Charge captain, Brianne says that PWHL hockey is fast-paced and full of rivalries, making each game an electric experience. “It’s got to be one of the tightest professional leagues in sports,” she says. “It’s very competitive, very entertaining.”  

For Gabbie Hughes, being a part of the PWHL has been an honour. “We’re reaching so many kids, and showing them there's a professional league for us now,” she says.  

Throughout the years, women’s hockey has been on the rise. The PWHL is giving those players a professional stage to play the hockey of their dreams. “It’s super empowering,” Gabbie explains. “I’m really proud of what the league is doing and what all the veterans have done to get us to this point.” 

About the Ottawa Charge

In their very first season, the Ottawa Charge set a world record at the time for the largest crowd at a professional women’s hockey game, with 8,318 fans packing TD Place Arena. After a wildly successful inaugural season that broke attendance records, the league is capturing the hearts of sports fans in the National Capital Region. Now, the Charge are entering their third season, and ready to take another slap shot at the Walter Cup at the PWHL Finals. 

The team's logo features a monogram "O" that pulses with electric currents, with a "C" cleverly integrated inside, reflecting energy, forward movement, and the team's initials. True to the spirit of the city and the team, the motto is “Advance – Ottawa – En Avant.” 

The team is powered by head coach Carla MacLeod, a retired two-time Olympic gold medalist and world champion for Team Canada. The team also features hometown favourite, and the only Ottawa-born player, Rebecca Leslie. 

Every Charge game is packed with energy, excitement, and unforgettable moments. On the ice, the Charge brings energy and momentum to every game. “We're a team that likes to be difficult to play against, and I think our fans know that. They feed into it, and give us that momentum when we're at home,” says Brianne. 

The fun atmosphere is a highlight of any Charge game. Expect upbeat energy and a fun playlist that gets fans out of their seats. This year, there are themed Unity Games throughout the season, like a country night and a mental health awareness game. 

It’s the fans who really create the fun, welcoming atmosphere at the games. “It’s very loud in the rink, our fans get very engaged,” Brianne explains.  

Charge fans bring a level of passion to the stands, as they come armed with kazoos and signs. For Rebecca , the signs are one of her favourite Charge traditions. “Our fans have the most creative signs,” Rebecca shares. “During timeouts, I often look at all the signs.” 

After a win, the team lines up around the centre circle for a “Thunder Clap,” one of defender Jocelyne Larocque’s favourite traditions. As the team and fans begin clapping, TD Place fills with energy, celebrating the win. Jocelyne had witnessed the tradition as an opponent and last year got to participate in her first Thunder Clap as a Charge player after being traded to Ottawa in December of 2024. “I remember my first time doing it after our home win, it’s electric,” Jocelyne says.  

The fans are integral to the TD Place Arena experience. “Our fans are so passionate and loud,” says Joceylne.  

Rebecca agrees. “I grew up in Ottawa. I always knew there was an itch for women’s hockey. It's such a passionate city, Ottawa has the best fans.” 

What to wear and bring 

Since you'll be inside TD Place Arena, you can dress for comfort without worrying about the weather outside. Team swag from the merch store or red clothes are a great way to show your support. Signs are welcomed and encouraged to show your support for the team and women's sports.  

When it comes to bags, always check the TD Place bag policy. Bags will be searched upon entry, and must be small enough to fit under your seat. To make your entry smoother, consider using a clear bag. TD Place often has express lines for fans with clear bags so that you can get to the action faster. Check the official TD Place website for a detailed list of permitted and prohibited items before you go. 

Charge fans are loud, so bring your cheering voice, or a kazoo! Kazoos are a fan favourite and are loved by players too as a way to show support for the team! 

Getting to TD Place 

TD Place is conveniently located at Lansdowne Park. It is best to plan ahead and arrive about an hour before puck drop to soak in the atmosphere and find your seat without rushing. 

Your game ticket includes free OC Transpo service. Ride the bus or O-Train for free starting three hours before the game and for three hours after. Just show your ticket to the bus driver. For the O-Train or gated stations, use the video chat on a ticket machine to speak with a customer service agent for access. There is also a shuttle service from Carleton University to TD Place that starts 90 minutes before the game.  

If you choose to drive, be sure to purchase your parking pass in advance. Parking at Lansdowne Park is limited and often sells out quickly for game days. Your parking pass is digital and can be added to your mobile wallet for easy access. 

Go to an Ottawa Charge game

CAA Members save up to 25 per cent on select regular season home games when purchased online.