A Brock University Homecoming event that captures the essence of community, competition and camaraderie is making its return to downtown St. Catharines.

The Steel Blade Classic hockey game will help to kick off Brock’s 60th anniversary celebrations, while also marking a milestone of its own.

It has been 25 years since the inception of the fan-favourite event that now annually draws thousands of people to the Meridian Centre in the heart of downtown.

That tradition will continue Friday, Sept. 20 when the Brock Badgers men’s hockey team faces off against the Guelph Gryphons at 7 p.m.

Tickets go on sale Wednesday, Aug. 14 on ticketmaster.ca at 10 a.m.

General admission lower bowl tickets are $30 each, with $1 from each ticket donated to the Food First Program. The partnership between the Brock University Students’ Union, the Graduate Students’ Association and Brock University supports students impacted by food insecurity.

Brock Alumni Relations will be hosting an Alumni VIP Section on the Club Level of the Meridian Centre.

Tickets for alumni, which include access to a private bar and complimentary snacks (while supplies last), are $35 and can be purchased through the Brock Homecoming website. A limited number of club level tickets will also be available to community members through Ticketmaster for $40 for adults and $20 for children aged three to 12.

Since its inception in 1999, the Classic has become a tradition that celebrates not only the competitive spirit of university hockey but also the deep historical connections of Brock University to the region.

The game has since become an essential part of the Brock student and Homecoming experience. The trophy, a sword donated by the Werner family, is a unique championship piece that commemorates the War of 1812 and stands as a symbol of excellence and historical pride.

Brock’s Fan Fest will kick off the festivities, taking place from 5 to 6:45 p.m. outside the Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts (MIWSFPA), across from the Meridian Centre.

Open only to Steel Blade ticket holders, the family-friendly event will feature live music, showcasing local Niagara talent, as well as food trucks.

“The Steel Blade Classic is more than just a hockey game, it’s a celebration of our community spirit,” said Brad Clarke, Associate Vice-President, Students. “Fan Fest is also a fan-favourite, bringing together students, alumni and the broader Niagara community. It’s an opportunity to connect and experience the vibrancy of our region. We look forward to welcoming everyone for a memorable night that features both our sport heritage and the exciting future of Brock athletics.”

In addition to Fan Fest, the space outside the MIWSFPA will also play host to the return of the Niagara Grape and Wine Festival’s Event in the Tent, which is presented by Community CARE in partnership with Brock University and the Grape and Wine Festival. Event in the Tent will take place from 7 p.m. until midnight and will also feature live music, food trucks and selections from local wineries and craft breweries. This ticketed event is open to guests aged 19 and over.

“Our collaboration brings together the community, the thrill of sport and the cultural richness of Niagara’s wine heritage,” said Dorian Anderson, Executive Director, Niagara Grape and Wine Festival. “This event celebrates not only our shared passion for excellence but also the vibrant spirit of St. Catharines. We look forward to a memorable day filled with exciting hockey, fine wine and the unique charm that makes our festival a beloved tradition.”

For more information on Brock’s 60th anniversary and related events, visit brocku.ca/60