The Battle of Ontario between the Ottawa Senators and Toronto Maple Leafs has all the makings of a great rivalry. The two teams have been in the same division since the Senators entered the league in 1992 and have met in the playoffs several times. The Leafs may have won all four playoff series, but the Sens hold an edge the all-time series of this in this tightly contested series. There are always plenty of fans from both sides in the arena for these contests, so be in attendance for Sens-Leafs games if you want to see one of the best matchups of the season.
The Senators and Canadiens rivalry dates back to the original Ottawa Senators franchise that existed from 1917 to 1934. The rivalry was dormant for several decades, however, in 1992 the Sens were reborn and so was the fierce rivalry between these two. The Habs and reincarnated Sens squared off in their first postseason series in 2013, which was won by the underdog Sens four games to one. A couple of years later, the Habs got their revenge beating the Sens four games to two in the first round of the 2015 playoffs. These two always put on a show when they meet, so don’t miss your chance to see a Sens-Habs game.
The Senators and Sabres have been in the same division since the Sens entered the League in 1992-93. However, things didn’t really heat up between these two until after the 2004-05 NHL Lockout. The two teams came out strong after the lockout and met in the playoffs several times in the years immediately following with the tempers boiling over during a regular season game on February 22, 2007, when a full team brawl broke out. If you want to see an intense game of hockey, make sure to be attendance when the Sabres are in town.
Ottawa Senators Stadium Guide
In Game
Upon stepping into the Canadian Tire Centre, you’ll be greeted by the history and tradition of hockey in Ottawa. Throughout the arena, you’ll see several tributes to former Senators players and teams. The team even does an excellent job showing off the history of the former Ottawa Senators franchise that played from 1883 to 1934.
The Senators also put on a good in game production, and the sightlines are excellent as well. No matter where you’re sitting, you’ll have a good view of all the action on the ice. The in-game experience also features pretty much everything you would expect from an NHL game including good video production and a lovable furry mascot.
The fans at Canadian Tire Center are also a big part of what makes attending a Senators game an enjoyable experience. The Sens Army located in section 312 live and die with this team and aren’t afraid to show their support no matter what the team’s record. This group of super fans can be seen at games clad in Roman-style attire and make lots of noise with their drums and noise makers. If you’re looking to get into the full Senators game day spirit, then try to snag tickets in this section.
The concessions and restaurants at Canadian Tire Center also aid in you having a good time at a Senators game. The 212 Deli & Pub, Farm Boy Fresh Zone, and Fat Boys all feature delicious and unique cuisine that will fill you up no matter what you’re craving. As for the restaurants, Chek Point’s after party on Friday and Saturday nights goes a long way in making attending a Sens game a fun night out.
An Ottawa Senators game is an excellent way to spend a night thanks to the franchise’s devotion to Ottawa’s hockey history and putting on a good production.
Throughout the concourses of the Canadian Tire Centre, you’ll see several murals paying tributes to the franchise’s history. There are murals of various Senators greats including Daniel Alfredsson, so check them all out.
Check out the banners hanging from the rafters honoring the Stanley Cups won by the former Ottawa Senators franchise and the current Senators retired numbers. These banners do a fantastic job of showcasing Ottawa’s pro hockey history and are a must-see for any hockey fan.
Those of you looking to pick up a souvenir to commemorate your trip to Ottawa will find whatever you’re looking for at the Sens Store. The Sens Store has everything from jerseys to hats to t-shirts and much more, so stop by during your visit.
Located near section 102, Bert’s is a great place to keep up with the action going on around the league. Bert’s features 23 TVs, stone-fired pizza, and burgers, so stop on by and take it all in.
Chek Point, located near section 120, is the perfect place to hang out after a Friday or Saturday night game. It’s home to the New Country 94 After Party meaning you won’t have to go home when the game is over.
Reserve your spot at the Alumni Lounge for your chance to meet former Senators players. The Alumni Lounge offers a casual dining experience and self-serve food making it a great place to eat before the game.
The Sens Army Section is the most raucous section in the Canadian Tire Centre. Located in section 312, the Sens Army are encouraged to wear red and black, bang drums, and play noise makers. If you want to cheer on the Sens as hard as possible, then get tickets in the Sens Army Section.
Former Ontario Provincial Police Constable Lyndon Slewidge sings the national anthem before every game. Get to your seat in time for the national anthem to hear Slewidge before the game.
Spartacat has been the official mascot of the Ottawa Senators since the franchise’s inception in 1992. At games you’ll see him entertaining the crowd with a variety of antics and promotions, so keep an eye out for him.
At Sens games you’ll always hear live music, which sometimes includes traditional Scottish music from the ‘Sons of Scotland Pipe Band.” Highland dancers typically accompany these Scottish musicians, so don’t miss them during your trip to Ottawa.
Before every Sens game, youth hockey players carry team flags onto the ice. The skating of the flags brings everyone in the arena to their feet and is an excellent way for young fans to get up close to their heroes, so be in attendance for this fun tradition.
I got my head checked
By a jumbo jet
It wasn’t easy
But nothing is
No[chorus]
Woo-hoo
When I feel heavy-metal
And I’m pins and I’m needles
Well, I lie and I’m easy
All the time but I am never sure
Why I need you
Pleased to meet you
I got my head down
When I was young
It’s not my problem
It’s not my problem