Port Colborne Wave Shines at Canada-USA Rivalry Series in Buffalo

The Port Colborne Wave made its presence felt at KeyBank Center on Saturday night as Canada faced the United States in the Rivalry Series. In a proud moment for our association, six Wave players were invited onto the ice with Team Canada for the singing of the national anthem, creating a memory they—and their families—won’t soon forget.

“This is a unique opportunity to showcase the two teams that have met in the gold medal game at each of the last four Winter Olympics and I think hockey fans on both sides of the border will come together to create a phenomenal atmosphere for the game,” said Buffalo Sabres Chief Operating Officer Pete Guelli ahead of the matchup. “These are the best players in the world and we’re honored to be able to feature these two outstanding teams right here in Buffalo just a few months before the 2026 Winter Olympics.”

Although the final score wasn’t what we were hoping for, the night delivered something even bigger: visibility for girls’ and women’s hockey in our community and a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our athletes. From stepping onto NHL ice to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best, our six Wave representatives saw first-hand what the top of the sport looks and feels like.

The outing doubled as a Wave fundraiser, with tickets offered to families and supporters in a 100-level block at KeyBank Center. Thanks to the strong response from our community, we sold 64 tickets and raised $540 for the association—funds that will be reinvested into programming, equipment, and opportunities that keep girls in the game.

Event details

• Who: Canada vs. U.S.A. — Rivalry Series

• When: Saturday, November 8, 2025, 6:00 p.m.

• Where: KeyBank Center, Buffalo, NY (100 Level seating)

A win for the Wave, either way
Beyond the scoreboard, the event delivered exactly what we aim for as an association: exposure for our players and programs, community pride, and a showcase of what’s possible when young athletes dream big. Parents and players alike called it a “bucket-list moment,” and the sight of Wave jerseys in the stands—and on the ice—turned the night into a celebration of our growing hockey community.

Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets, spread the word, and traveled to Buffalo. And a special shout-out to our six anthem buddies—you represented Port Colborne with poise and passion. Nights like these inspire the next practice, the next game, and the next generation.