As the annual Panda Game approaches, a surge of university students and football enthusiasts are set to gather at TD Place this Sunday. Ottawa Police Service and city officials are gearing up for more than just the on-field action. The University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and Carleton Ravens will kick off at noon, with both schools anticipating a significant turnout of students.
In anticipation of the event, the OPS has announced an increased police presence in the city on Sunday, focusing on ensuring that celebrations remain safe, lawful, and respectful. Rideau-Vanier Coun. Stephanie Plante emphasized the need to maintain order in areas like Sandy Hill, where previous Panda Game festivities have spilled over onto residential streets and private properties.
This year, Plante, in collaboration with the OPS, University of Ottawa, and bylaw services, has been cautioning students to abide by the law. Bylaw officers will be issuing fines for offenses such as loitering, public intoxication, and obstructing sidewalks. Additionally, property owners have been informed that they can authorize officers with “Agent Status” in advance, allowing them to remove unwanted individuals from their property under the Trespass to Property Act.
Safety measures have been put in place to prevent a recurrence of past disturbances during Panda Games, notably the incidents from 2021 when a car was overturned during post-game celebrations. Plante mentioned that the annual tailgate has been relocated to the campus since then, and law enforcement, bylaw officials, and community partners have bolstered their presence.
Both universities have advised students to steer clear of residential areas during their celebrations. The University of Ottawa’s website recommends that students who consume alcohol should eat, stay hydrated, and plan a safe journey home for themselves and their friends. Carleton University has collaborated with various stakeholders to enhance policing, enforcement, and emergency response resources for the event.
The anticipation among players is palpable, with the Panda Game holding a special place in their hearts due to its unique atmosphere. Marcel Bellefeuille, head coach of the Gee-Gees, acknowledged the pressure on players performing in front of an expected crowd of around 24,000 fans, likening the experience to a championship game. Meanwhile, Carleton head coach Corey Grant emphasized the importance of thorough preparation for success, especially coming off a bye week.
Kickoff for the highly anticipated Panda Game is slated for noon on Sunday at TD Place.