Ottawa Senators and Soldier On: A Decade of Giving Back
Ottawa's beloved NHL franchise, the Ottawa Senators, recently welcomed a special group of guests to the Canadian Tire Centre — members of the Canadian Armed Forces' Soldier On program — for the 10th anniversary of what has become a cherished annual tradition.
Soldier On is a Canadian Armed Forces program that supports ill and injured military personnel and veterans in their physical and psychosocial rehabilitation journeys. For a decade, the Ottawa Senators organization has opened the doors of the CTC to these remarkable individuals, offering them a day of connection, hockey, and recognition for their service and sacrifice.
What Is Soldier On?
Launched to help wounded, ill, and injured Canadian Armed Forces members regain their confidence and independence through sport and physical activity, Soldier On has become a lifeline for hundreds of veterans and active military personnel across the country. The program helps participants overcome physical and mental health challenges through adaptive sports, recreation, and community — and visits like this one at the CTC are a meaningful part of that mission.
Ten Years of a Meaningful Tradition
What started as a single gesture of gratitude has grown into a landmark annual event in the Senators' community calendar. Over the past decade, members of the Soldier On program have had the chance to tour the arena, meet players and staff, and experience the warmth and camaraderie of the Ottawa hockey community up close.
The 10th anniversary visit made the occasion especially meaningful — a chance to look back on a decade of impact and celebrate the bonds formed between the Senators organization and Canada's military community.
For many participants, the visit is more than just a fun day out. It's a reminder that their service is recognized and valued, and that the Ottawa community — from the front office to the fans — stands behind them.
The Senators' Community Roots
The Ottawa Senators have long positioned themselves as more than just a hockey team — they're a cornerstone of the capital's community identity. Initiatives like the Soldier On partnership reflect the organization's commitment to giving back to the city and the country.
Ottawa, as the nation's capital, has a deep and abiding connection to Canada's military. Home to National Defence Headquarters and a significant population of current and former service members, the city has always held the Canadian Armed Forces in high regard. That connection makes the Senators-Soldier On partnership feel especially fitting — a hockey team in the heart of Canada's capital honouring the people who protect it.
Looking Ahead
With ten years now in the books, this tradition shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, the milestone anniversary seems likely to deepen the commitment on both sides. For Soldier On participants, the annual CTC visit is something to look forward to — a day of joy, recognition, and community in one of Ottawa's most iconic venues.
Here's to ten more years.
Source: NHL.com via Google News Ottawa
