Ottawa’s electrifying university football game gears up for action with emphasis on safety
OTTAWA, Sept. 27, 2023 – Hold onto your seats, Ottawa! Despite soaring safety concerns stemming from raucous street parties in the past two years, the city’s electrifying university football game is gearing up for action on October 2.
The fallout was so intense that then-interim police chief Steve Bell penned an incendiary letter to city leaders, condemning the post-game antics as “completely unnecessary and totally unacceptable.” He minced no words in asserting the urgent need for a no-holds-barred discussion about the future of this iconic university showdown.
But the show must go on! Brace yourselves for an October 2 showdown that promises to defy all controversy and keep the flames of competition burning bright. Ottawa’s huge university football game is back, and it’s ready to deliver an adrenaline-pumping spectacle that no safety concern can dampen. Get ready to witness history in the making, as the spirit of rivalry and the roar of the crowd unite for another unforgettable chapter in this storied tradition!
Why Is it Called The Panda Game?
In the heart of our nation’s capital, a football tradition unlike any other takes centre stage annually. It’s the Panda Game, the showdown that defines Canadian university football rivalry at its finest. This epic clash features the city’s powerhouse teams of the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) league: the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and Carleton University Ravens.
The ‘Panda-monium’ begins with the coveted prize at stake – Pedro the Panda, the majestic trophy presented to the victor each year. As the teams battle it out on the gridiron, they also compete for the honour of hoisting this symbol of supremacy in Canadian university football.
While the Panda Game is an integral part of the OUA East division season, its significance transcends the ordinary. This rivalry has etched its place in history and is celebrated with unparalleled fervour. The week leading up to the big clash is affectionately known as “Panda Week,” a time when excitement and anticipation reach a fever pitch.
In one corner, you have the University of Ottawa, situated in the vibrant downtown Sandy Hill neighbourhood. In the other, Carleton University, nestled between the Rideau River and Rideau Canal near scenic Old Ottawa South and the picturesque Dow’s Lake. It’s not just a game; it’s a clash of cultures, neighbourhoods, and unbridled school spirit.
When the Gee-Gees and Ravens take the field for the Panda Game, it’s more than a football game; it’s a spectacle, a rivalry that defines a city, and a tradition that unites fans from both institutions. Get ready for the roar of the crowd, the clash of the titans, and a football experience like no other. The Panda Game – where history, rivalry, and passion collide.
Zero Tolerance – Community Engagement Efforts for Panda Game Weekend:
This week, officials from the Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and by-law enforcement are actively engaging with residents in the Sandy Hill area to discuss preparations for the upcoming Panda Game weekend.
In recent years, the Panda Game has unfortunately garnered attention due to concerns about raucous parties and celebrations in the Sandy Hill neighbourhood.
In the wake of last year’s mayhem, which saw seven arrests, a whopping 88 open alcohol violations, and 13 noise-related infractions after the University of Ottawa triumphed over Carleton in the explosive annual Panda Game, schools, police, and city leaders hinted at the possibility of canceling the event altogether.
The 2021 edition of the Panda Game witnessed post-game celebrations escalating rapidly, with thousands of students flooding the Sandy Hill neighborhood. Some incidents of concern were shared on social media, including images of students flipping a car.
Efforts are now underway to engage with the community, address concerns, and ensure a safe and harmonious Panda Game weekend for all residents and visitors alike. These outreach initiatives reflect a commitment to fostering a calm environment after the game.
The History of Ottawa’s Panda Game
In 1955, two visionary minds, Bryan McNulty, a University of Ottawa student and associate editor for the Fulcrum, and Thomas White, embarked on a mission to breathe life into the rivalry between their institution and Carleton University. Their brainchild? The Panda Game. They persuaded a local jeweller, Jack Snow, to donate a stuffed panda affectionately named “Pedro” – the original Gee-Gees mascot before the adoption of the horse. Pedro wasn’t just a mascot; he was the epicenter of a tradition destined for greatness.
As the legend goes, Pedro began to capture hearts beyond the football field. After the Gee-Gees clinched a triumphant 25–0 victory in 1958, Pedro embarked on a world tour that would make a globetrotter jealous. He graced the hallowed halls of universities across Canada, even ventured south of the border to UCLA in Los Angeles and Alabama State University in Montgomery. Rumor has it; Pedro even explored Peru, Mexico, and Europe. He became more than a trophy; he was a global sensation.
Fast forward, and the Panda Game evolved into a national institution, standing shoulder to shoulder with the Grey Cup and the Vanier Cup. Attendance numbers skyrocketed, with one remarkable year seeing over 16,000 fans in attendance – eclipsing even the Vanier Cup that season.
But as the ’80s dawned, the Panda Game earned an unfortunate reputation as more of a raucous party than a football spectacle. This reputation climaxed in 1987 when heavily packed stands led to a railing collapse, injuring dozens of fans. It was a sobering moment that cast a shadow of uncertainty over the game’s future.
However, traditions as rich as the Panda Game don’t fade easily. Despite the challenges, the Panda Game endured. Even a stadium relocation to Carleton’s Keith Harris Stadium in 1997 couldn’t deter its legacy.
Another Accident
But adversity struck again. Carleton University discontinued its football program in 1998 due to sustained financial losses, rendering the Panda Game dormant and leaving the Gee-Gees as Ottawa’s sole collegiate football team for the first time in 53 years.
The late 2000s hinted at a revival, with Carleton considering fielding a football team again. At the same time, revitalization plans were underway for Lansdowne Park. In 2013, the Ravens re-entered the arena, marking the triumphant return of the Panda Game. It was a resounding success, with 4,000 fans packing Gee-Gees Field and witnessing a dominant 35–10 Gee-Gees victory.
The momentum surged, and in 2014, the Panda Game found its way back to Lansdowne Park’s newly renovated 24,000-seat TD Place Stadium. The game ended in a thrilling last-second Hail Mary catch, securing a 33–31 victory for the Ravens amidst a field-storming frenzy.
The 2015 edition broke records with 17,596 fans in attendance and the highest combined score of 93 points, overshadowing the previous record of 77 points set in 1975.
In 2016, a sellout crowd of 23,329 witnessed Carleton’s 43–23 triumph over Ottawa, marking the most attended U Sports regular-season football game in at least two decades.
Covid 19 & The Panda Games
Fast forward to 2020, and the pandemic struck, halting the Panda Game’s historic run. The following year, after the 2021 edition, disturbances in Sandy Hill marred the celebrations, resulting in arrests and charges. For the 2022 edition, police and officials pledged to increase their presence to prevent further disturbances, underscoring the enduring passion and fervor surrounding the Panda Game.
As the rivalry between the Gee-Gees and Ravens continues to captivate fans and alumni alike, the Panda Game remains a testament to the enduring spirit of Canadian university football.
Panda Game Fan Code Of Conduct
While fans prepare to immerse themselves in the exciting world of university football, organizers, police and the city want to ensure ticket holders safety and enjoyment throughout the event.
In line with TD Place’s commitment to providing a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable sports and entertainment experience for all, a few ground rules in the Fan Code of Conduct have been designed to enhance everyone’s experience while maintaining a respectful and secure environment:
In the interest of maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all attendees at TD Place, we emphasize the following code of conduct, which must be adhered to by every fan throughout the event:
Respect and Courtesy: All fans are expected to conduct themselves with the utmost respect and courtesy towards fellow attendees, TD Place employees, athletes, officials, and performers.
Professional Behaviour: Attendees are strongly encouraged to uphold a consistent, professional, and courteous demeanor during the entire duration of the event.
Zero Tolerance for Disruptive Behaviour: There will be an unequivocal zero-tolerance policy in place regarding disruptive behavior. This encompasses any form of fighting, violence, threats, taunting, or harassment. Absolutely no disruptive behaviour will be sanctioned.
Prohibition of Offensive Remarks or Gestures: The use of offensive or obscene language, remarks, or gestures is strictly prohibited.
No Object Throwing: Under no circumstances shall any objects of any nature be thrown onto the field or within the venue.
Responsible Alcohol Consumption: Fans who choose to consume alcoholic beverages are required to do so responsibly and in compliance with applicable laws. Purchasing alcohol for minors is illegal and will not be tolerated.
Seat Assignment Adherence: Attendees are expected to remain within their designated seating areas and refrain from any actions that could interfere with the game being played on the field.
Smoking Prohibition: Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes or vaporizers, is strictly prohibited within the venue.
Compliance with Operational and Emergency Procedures: Attendees must fully adhere to all operational and emergency procedures as directed by venue staff.
Prohibited Items: TD Place reserves the unequivocal right to regulate the entry of prohibited items into the venue. Items not conforming to the Prohibited Items List may be confiscated or necessitate storage outside the venue premises.
by Myles Shane
with notes and images from City of Ottawa
Other articles from totimes.ca – otttimes.ca – mtltimes.ca
