Ottawa is buzzing with athletic excellence as Day 3 of the 2025 Canadian Ringette Championships unfolds across the city’s premier ice facilities. Since March 30, 2025, the nation’s capital has transformed into the epicenter of ringette competition, hosting 49 elite teams and more than 900 talented athletes who have descended upon Ottawa to compete for national glory under this year’s empowering theme: “Skate into your Power!”
As Tuesday, April 1st arrives, the tournament has reached its crucial midpoint, where preliminary rounds are drawing to conclusions and the path to championship glory is becoming clearer. The energy at both Ray Friel Recreation Complex and Richcraft Sensplex is electric, with families, fans, and ringette enthusiasts filling the stands to witness some of the finest displays of this uniquely Canadian sport.
��� What is Ringette?
For those unfamiliar with this fast-paced ice sport, ringette is often described as one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. Invented in 1963 in North Bay, Ontario by Sam Jacks, ringette was designed specifically as a winter team sport for girls and women, though it has since expanded to include male athletes in some divisions.
“Ringette combines the speed of hockey with the strategic passing of basketball and the teamwork of soccer. It’s a sport that demands skill, intelligence, and incredible athleticism.” — Ringette Canada
Unlike hockey, ringette uses a straight stick and a rubber ring instead of a puck. The game emphasizes passing and teamwork—players cannot carry the ring across the blue lines alone, requiring strategic passes and coordinated team movement. This rule creates a dynamic, fast-paced game that showcases exceptional skating ability and tactical thinking.
��� Quick Facts: 2025 Canadian Ringette Championships
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 📅 Tournament Dates | March 30 - April 5, 2025 |
| 📍 Primary Venue | Ray Friel Recreation Complex |
| 📍 Secondary Venue | Richcraft Sensplex |
| 🏆 Teams Competing | 49 teams |
| 👥 Athletes Participating | 900+ athletes |
| 🎯 Divisions | U16, U19, and NRL (National Ringette League) |
| 💪 Theme | ”Skate into your Power!” |
| 🗓️ Today’s Date | April 1, 2025 (Day 3) |
| 🎫 Admission | Free or nominal fee (check venue) |
���️ The Venues: World-Class Facilities
Ray Friel Recreation Complex
Located in Ottawa’s east end at 1585 Tenth Line Road, the Ray Friel Recreation Complex serves as the primary venue for the championships. This massive facility features:
- Four NHL-sized ice surfaces allowing multiple games to run simultaneously
- Modern amenities including spacious dressing rooms and viewing areas
- Concession facilities keeping athletes and spectators fueled throughout the day
- Ample parking accommodating the large crowds attending the championships
- Accessibility features ensuring everyone can enjoy the competition
The complex has become Ottawa’s go-to destination for major hockey and ringette tournaments, with its size and quality making it ideal for national-level competitions.
Richcraft Sensplex
Situated at 1565 Maple Grove Road in Kanata, Richcraft Sensplex complements Ray Friel as the tournament’s second venue. This state-of-the-art facility offers:
- Four regulation ice pads with professional-grade ice surfaces
- Modern viewing areas with excellent sightlines from all angles
- Premium facilities matching international competition standards
- Convenient location with easy highway access and extensive parking
- Food and beverage options serving a variety of refreshments
Together, these venues provide the infrastructure necessary to host one of Canada’s premier ringette events, ensuring athletes compete in optimal conditions while fans enjoy comfortable viewing experiences.
��� Today’s Competition: Day 3 Highlights
U16 Division Action
The Under-16 division showcases ringette’s future stars—athletes aged 14-15 who have already developed remarkable skills and competitive drive. Day 3 typically features crucial round-robin games that determine playoff positioning. These young athletes demonstrate:
- Technical proficiency in skating, passing, and ring handling
- Tactical awareness understanding complex game strategies
- Physical conditioning maintaining high-intensity play throughout games
- Mental toughness competing under pressure on a national stage
Scouts and coaches from higher divisions often watch U16 games closely, identifying talent that will shape ringette’s future at the U19 and NRL levels.
U19 Division Excellence
The Under-19 division represents ringette at its developmental peak before athletes transition to adult leagues. These 16-18 year old competitors bring:
- Elite-level skills refined through years of training and competition
- Game sophistication demonstrating advanced tactical understanding
- Leadership qualities many serving as captains preparing for future coaching roles
- Intense competition as teams vie for national supremacy
U19 games on Day 3 often feature the tournament’s most exciting matchups, as evenly-matched teams battle for positioning heading into the elimination rounds.
NRL (National Ringette League) Dominance
The National Ringette League represents the absolute pinnacle of ringette competition in Canada. These elite athletes, aged 18 and over, showcase ringette at its finest:
- Professional-caliber athleticism with speed and agility rivaling any ice sport
- Strategic complexity employing sophisticated systems and plays
- Intensity and physicality within the sport’s non-contact framework
- Skill mastery demonstrating years or decades of competitive experience
NRL games draw the largest crowds and generate the most excitement, as fans witness the sport’s best players competing for national championship honors.
��� “Skate into your Power!” – This Year’s Theme
The 2025 championships theme, “Skate into your Power!”, resonates deeply within ringette culture, which has long championed female athletes and empowerment through sport. This theme emphasizes:
Personal Growth
Encouraging athletes to recognize their individual strengths, talents, and potential both on and off the ice.
Collective Strength
Celebrating the power of teamwork, community, and the bonds formed through shared athletic pursuit.
Breaking Barriers
Acknowledging ringette’s role in providing opportunities for female athletes to excel in competitive sport at the highest levels.
Confidence and Leadership
Inspiring young athletes to develop leadership skills, confidence, and resilience that extend far beyond the rink.
This theme reflects ringette’s ongoing commitment to creating empowering experiences for athletes while showcasing their remarkable abilities on a national stage.
���️ Attending the Championships
Admission Information
The Canadian Ringette Championships typically offer free or very affordable admission, making it accessible for families and sports fans to experience elite ringette competition. Some sessions may have nominal fees ($5-10) to help cover facility costs.
Game Schedule
Multiple games run simultaneously across both venues throughout the day. Typical schedule:
- Morning sessions: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Afternoon sessions: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Evening sessions: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Check the official tournament schedule for specific game times and divisions.
What to Bring
- Warm layers: Arenas can be chilly, especially for extended viewing
- Snacks and drinks: Though concessions are available, bringing your own can save money
- Seating cushions: Arena seats can be hard during long viewing sessions
- Camera: Capture memories (flash photography typically not permitted during play)
- Team spirit: Cheering and support create an amazing atmosphere!
��� Getting to the Venues
Ray Friel Recreation Complex
Address: 1585 Tenth Line Road, Ottawa
By Car: Take Highway 417 to Innes Road exit, proceed east to Tenth Line Road. Ample free parking available.
By Transit: OC Transpo Routes 30, 39 serve the area. Check schedule for timing.
Richcraft Sensplex
Address: 1565 Maple Grove Road, Kanata
By Car: Take Highway 417 west to Terry Fox Drive exit, proceed to Maple Grove Road. Extensive free parking available.
By Transit: OC Transpo Routes 61, 62, 64 serve Kanata area. Walk from nearest stops.
��� Ringette: A Proudly Canadian Sport
Ringette holds a special place in Canadian sports culture. With over 30,000 registered players across Canada and growing international interest, the sport continues to expand while maintaining its core values of inclusivity, skill development, and sportsmanship.
The championships in Ottawa represent the culmination of a season-long journey for these 49 teams—countless practices, tournaments, and sacrifices all leading to this week of elite competition. For many athletes, particularly those in U19, this may represent their final opportunity to compete for a national championship in youth ringette before transitioning to adult leagues or moving on from competitive sport.
�� Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is ringette only for girls and women? A: While ringette was originally created for female athletes and remains predominantly a women’s sport, boys and men participate in co-ed divisions, and some regions offer male-specific leagues.
Q: How long are ringette games? A: Games consist of two 18-minute halves with a running clock (stopped for timeouts, injuries, and during the final two minutes of each half). Total event time including intermission is approximately 60 minutes.
Q: Can I watch multiple divisions in one day? A: Absolutely! With games running continuously at two venues, fans can experience different divisions and skill levels throughout the day.
Q: Are there opportunities to meet the athletes? A: While formal meet-and-greets may not be scheduled, athletes are often accessible between games. Remember to be respectful of their preparation time.
Q: How is ringette different from hockey? A: Key differences include using a ring instead of a puck, straight sticks instead of curved blades, no icing rule, and mandatory passing across blue lines. Ringette is officially non-contact, though physical play within boundaries is permitted.
Q: Will there be food available at the venues? A: Both venues have concession stands offering standard arena fare including hot dogs, pizza, snacks, and beverages.
Q: Can I bring young children? A: Yes! The championships are family-friendly events. Many young children attend and enjoy watching while being inspired by elite athletes.
Q: Is photography allowed? A: Yes, though flash photography during play is typically discouraged. Check specific venue policies.
��� The Road Ahead
As Day 3 concludes, the tournament picture becomes clearer. Teams that have performed well in preliminary rounds begin to see their paths to medal rounds, while those facing elimination must dig deep to keep their championship dreams alive.
The intensity will only increase over the coming days as playoffs begin, culminating in the championship finals on April 5th. Every shift matters, every pass counts, and every athlete pushes themselves to their absolute limits in pursuit of national championship glory.
��� Supporting Canadian Athletes
Attending events like the Canadian Ringette Championships does more than provide entertainment—it supports the development of amateur athletes and helps grow uniquely Canadian sports. Your presence in the stands provides encouragement to athletes who have dedicated countless hours to their sport and inspires the next generation of ringette players watching from the sidelines.
For more information about sports events and activities happening in Ottawa, visit ViaOttawa.ca for comprehensive coverage of everything happening in Canada’s capital.
Whether you’re a ringette enthusiast, a curious sports fan, or a family looking for an affordable and exciting outing, Day 3 of the Canadian Ringette Championships offers an opportunity to witness elite Canadian athletes competing at the highest level. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this celebration of skill, determination, and the power of sport to transform lives.
Sources:
- Ringette Canada Official Website
- 2025 Canadian Ringette Championships Tournament Information
- Ray Friel Recreation Complex Facility Information
- Richcraft Sensplex Event Details
- Ringette Ontario Championship Resources
