SEASON PREVIEW: Men’s hockey looks to make a run in 2024-25, set to host U CUP at TD Place in March

The 2024-25 season promises to be an exciting one of the Gee-Gees men's hockey team. Following a 20-8 season that was cut short in game three of the OUA East semi-final, Ottawa returns its key pieces, is set to host the University Cup (U Cup) on March 20-23, 2025, and will look to earn their place in the championship tournament.

"We are looking forward to this exciting season," said Ottawa head coach, Patrick Grandmaître. "For one, we have a mix of a tremendous returning class and an impressive recruiting class."

Highlights of Ottawa's returners include OUA Rookie All-Rookie and OUA East Second Team All-Star, Luka Verreault, lead goal scorer, Max Grondin, and consistent skaters, Mathieu Desgagnés and captain Anthony Poulin.

Breakout goaltender, Franky Lapenna will also make his return for a second year in the Garnet and Grey. After being recognized as the OUA East Goaltender of the year, Rookie of the Year and being named to the First All-Star team and All-Rookie team in the 2023-24 season, eyes are sure to be on Lapenna throughout his sophomore season. 

With three pre-season wins under their belt, the Gee-Gees get the regular season started on home ice, welcoming the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks on Friday night, then host the TMU Bold at 1 p.m. the following day.

A rematch of the OUA East semifinal is set for Oct. 18 at UQTR, then Oct. 26 in Ottawa. The Gee-Gees are set to take on their crosstown rivals, the Carleton Ravens, four times over the regular season, including three consecutive games. On Nov. 30, the Gee-Gees will meet the Ravens at TD Place for the seventh Colonel By Classic.

The regular season concludes on Feb. 15 at Guelph and the Gee-Gees will hope to transition to playoff mode shortly after. The team is already guaranteed to compete at U Cup with the host bid but will look to earn their place among the top teams.

"We are the host team for the national championships which adds another level of excitement," Grandmaître said. "We are grateful for this opportunity by we are looking to get to nationals as a top seed by doing well in the OUA this season."

"We know we have a lot of competition that want the same as us, but we are confident we can earn our way to the U Cup top eight."

Puck drop for the Gee-Gees home opener is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 4 at the Minto Sports Complex. Tickets for the home opener and every home game throughout the season can be purchased at tickets.geegees.ca