Okay, here is a bit of a hot take. I think the Ottawa Rapid FC fan experience is the best of any sports team in Ottawa.
That does not mean I do not enjoy a good Redblacks, Sens or Titans game, but my go-to is the Ottawa Rapid.
Let me explain. From the moment our family entered TD Place, there was a relaxed and fun atmosphere. At field level, there was a fan engagement area offering everything from crafts for kids to a giant Velcro dartboard that fans can kick a soccer ball to get a bullseye.
We also saw a fan cheer drumline that was right out of a European soccer game.
One thing you will not find is any European soccer hooliganism. A Rapid game is more like a barbecue with family and friends.
My wife and I took our seats, and it was game on. The calibre of play was exceptional. The Rapid were playing the league’s top-ranked team, the Montreal Roses. The Northern Super League, in which the Rapid and Roses play, features some of the best players in Canada and international stars from around the world, including members of numerous national teams.
The Roses jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, with the Rapid getting one back just before half-time.
During halftime, I strolled around the fan experience area, taking in the sights and sounds. At field level, it is possible to stay in that area even when the game restarts for the second half. I took in the first ten minutes just behind the net of the Montreal Roses. There is a large mesh net behind the net to prevent an excess of balls from entering the fan experience area. Not one ball went into the fan experience area the entire game, and it offers a unique perspective and confirms these athletes are next-level good. I will enjoy watching the Women’s World Cup in 2027 to see some of these players in action.
The game went back and forth in the second half, with the Rapid scoring to tie the game at 2-2. Sadly, the Roses scored one late in the game at the 87th minute, and the final score remained 3-2.
After the game, there was a brief pause, and fans were invited onto the field to get autographs and meet the players. This is community engagement at its most direct level. I imagine that a number of young people have been inspired to further their soccer career after watching the Rapid.
The fun was not done. There were plenty of other activities at TD Place. The farmers market was still going on, and a Latino festival featuring different countries, cuisine and music was in full effect.
This game was the perfect end-of-summer, beginning-of-fall Sunday. Thank you, Ottawa Rapid FC.
There are plenty of opportunities coming up to catch Rapid FC in action, with their final home game being October 23. Of course, that can be extended even further if Rapid FC makes the playoffs.
For more information about the schedule, tickets, players, etc. of the Ottawa Rapid FC, visit www.ottawarapidfc.ca.
For information about events and things to do at TD Place, visit www.tdplace.ca
Photo: Courtesy Ottawa Rapid FC
