TD Place is gearing up for the annual Panda Game this Sunday, where thousands of university students and football enthusiasts are expected to gather. Ottawa Police Service and city officials are not only focusing on the game itself but also on ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all attendees.
The highly anticipated matchup between the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees and the Carleton Ravens will kick off at noon, with both teams anticipating a large student turnout, as reported by CBC.
To maintain order during the festivities, the Ottawa Police Service will increase their presence throughout the city on Sunday, with a specific focus on promoting safe and lawful celebrations. Councilor Stephanie Plante emphasized the need for responsible behavior, especially in Sandy Hill, where previous Panda Game celebrations have caused disturbances in residential areas.
Notably, this year, Plante, along with the Ottawa Police Service, the University of Ottawa, and bylaw services, has been reminding students to comply with regulations. Bylaw officers will be issuing fines for various offenses such as loitering, public intoxication, and obstructing sidewalks.
In preparation for the event, property owners have been informed that they can grant officers “Agent Status” in advance, allowing them to remove unwanted individuals from their premises under the Trespass to Property Act.
Safety Measures
Plante highlighted the efforts to prevent a recurrence of past disorderly incidents during Panda Games, particularly referencing the 2021 event where a car was overturned during celebrations. Since then, the annual tailgate has been relocated to the campus, while law enforcement, bylaw officials, and community partners have bolstered their presence.
Emphasizing a balance between enjoyment and responsibility, Plante stressed the importance of considering neighbors’ well-being while having a good time. Both universities have encouraged students to avoid residential areas for their celebrations.
The University of Ottawa’s guidelines advise students consuming alcohol to eat, stay hydrated, and plan for a safe return home. They also recommend participating in on-campus events rather than congregating in residential zones. Carleton University has collaborated with various entities to enhance policing, enforcement, and emergency response resources for the game.
Anticipation Among Players
For the players, the Panda Game holds a unique allure compared to other matches on the schedule. Gee-Gees head coach Marcel Bellefeuille mentioned the pressure of performing in front of an expected crowd of around 24,000 fans, likening the experience to a championship game.
Carleton head coach Corey Grant acknowledged the challenge ahead for his team, coming off a bye week, and emphasized the need for thorough preparation to secure a victory. The game is set to commence at noon on Sunday at TD Place.
