Carleton University Ravens Reclaim Pedro in Panda Game Victory
In front of a sold-out crowd of more than 23,000 fans at Ottawa’s TD Place stadium, the Carleton University Ravens football team reclaimed Pedro the Panda with a thrilling 20–14 victory over the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees in the 56th annual Panda Game.
The Panda Game, one of Canada’s most storied university rivalries, brought students, alumni and supporters together in a celebration of tradition and connection.
A tightly contested matchup, the Ravens overcame an early deficit, executed key plays in the second quarter, and held off a late Gee-Gees rally to secure the win.
“To see the character of this team, to watch them come together, believe in one another, and deliver the outcome our community has been waiting for is truly inspiring,” said Wisdom Tettey, Carleton University president.
“Our students thrive through all sorts of endeavours, and sport is one way they build spirit and a sense of community,” said Tettey. “They are the greatest ambassadors on and off the field, achieving this win through their own dedication and hard work, guided by a network of coaches and the support staff.”
Leadership and Teamwork
Head coach Corey Grant, who has led the Ravens since 2022, praised the team’s resilience and composure.
“Ottawa is a strong opponent and plays the full 60 minutes, so we wanted to make sure we finished the right way,” he said.
Third-year quarterback Elijah Barnes delivered a standout performance, completing 13 of 19 passes for 189 yards and one touchdown, helping lead the Ravens’ offence. Wide receiver Frederick Hachey contributed six catches for 107 yards and the crucial two-point conversion. Special teams players like Joey Sciandra and Nash MacDonald also played key roles, demonstrating the depth, skill and focus that come from a program built on developing well-rounded student-athletes.
Reflecting on his team’s performance, Grant credited the team’s preparation. “We played better as a full team — offence, defence and special teams. That’s what happens when we play complementary football.”
Community and Camaraderie
For Carleton students, the Panda Game is more than a football matchup. It’s a rite of passage — a chance to stand shoulder to shoulder with classmates and alumni, united by a shared sense of belonging. The energy from campus to TD Place is unmatched, with Ravens fans proudly wearing black and red as generations come together to celebrate what it means to be part of the Carleton community.
For Barnes, the atmosphere was unforgettable. “The adrenaline still hasn’t worn off,” he said. “Seeing the fans rush the field — the right way this time — it’s pretty amazing. I’m still taking it all in.”
While fierce on the field, the rivalry between Carleton and the University of Ottawa is built on mutual respect and shared pride in the city both institutions call home. Students from both universities fill the stands, united by the excitement of the game and the traditions that make Ottawa’s university community so vibrant.
The collaboration between the schools, the City of Ottawa and event organizers ensures that the Panda Game remains not only a highlight of the athletic calendar but a safe, spirited celebration of student life. From tailgates to post-game gatherings, the day brings together two campuses that thrive on competition, camaraderie and community engagement.
Pride, Performance and the Student Journey
Behind the Panda Game win are student-athletes who balance demanding training with academic and extracurricular commitments. They are athletes, and they are also scholars, leaders and contributors to their communities, developing skills and values that extend beyond the field. Their dedication, discipline and teamwork drive the success of Carleton athletics.
The win reflects the effort of the entire Carleton Ravens program, from players to coaches and support staff, whose guidance helps student-athletes perform at their best. The program is recognized nationally for excellence across sports, from championship basketball to Nordic skiing, soccer, hockey and curling.
Pedro’s return celebrates the collective effort of students and staff, and the culture of resilience, collaboration and commitment that defines Carleton. The Panda Game highlights how athletics fosters not only performance on the field but leadership, engagement and growth across student life.
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