Muskies ready to drop the puck on new season with First Responder Night

DARRYL KNIGHT, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Hockey fans in Lindsay will have plenty to cheer about when the Jr. A Muskies officially open their 2026-27 regular season, on Friday, September 11th, in a night which puts hockey and community pride at centre ice.

The Muskies will welcome the Trenton Golden Hawks to the Muskies Home Arena, for a 7 p.m. opening faceoff. The organization has planned this special First Responder Night to recognize the local men and women who dedicate themselves to keeping the community safe.

The evening will also support mental health initiatives, with a portion of ticket sales being donated to the cause.

For, Muskies General Manager and Director of Hockey, Brendan O’Grady, the home opener is an opportunity to start the new season by celebrating the people and organizations which help make the local community strong.

“We’re really looking forward to getting the season started in front of our fans,” explained Mr. O’Grady. “Our home opener is about more than just the first game of the year. It’s a chance to bring the community together, recognize our first responders and support an important cause while giving our fans an exciting night of hockey.”

The Muskies will also welcome local musician Mason Moxley, who will perform in the Fish Bowl during the evening.

Fans are being encouraged to bring the entire family, wear their Muskies colours, and help fill the rink, as Lindsay's Junior A club begins another season.

The opening night will also provide a preview of the organization's expanded efforts to connect with local minor hockey players and families.

Beginning in October, the first Friday home game of each month will be designated as Minor Hockey Night, giving local players an opportunity to see the Muskies in action and celebrate their own hockey communities.

Minor hockey players, who attend wearing their team jersey, will receive free admission with the purchase of an adult ticket.

The Muskies are also inviting local minor hockey teams, to take part in on-ice ceremonies, during Minor Hockey Nights. Teams interested in participating are encouraged to contact the Muskies, to reserve a spot.

“We want the rink to feel like it belongs to the entire hockey community,” said Mr. O’Grady. “Our minor hockey players are the next generation of Muskies fans, players, and supporters, and we want them and their families to feel welcome at our games.”

The Muskies are particularly looking forward to welcoming Lindsay Lynx families and players, throughout the season. Minor Hockey Nights are expected to provide an opportunity for young players to experience Junior A hockey close to home.

For the Muskies, however, the immediate focus is on September 11th, and the chance to begin the new campaign on home ice.

With first responders being honoured, mental health initiatives being supported, and a new season of hockey ready to begin, the organization hopes the home opener will be a celebration of both the team and the community surrounding it.

“We’d love to see a packed rink on September 11th,” Mr. O’Grady added. “There’s a lot to be excited about, and we think it’s going to be a great way to start the 2026-27 season.”