Under the bright lights of the Meridian Centre, the Brock Badgers will lay it all on the line next week for their hometown crowd. While they’ll be vying for a win, the team’s biggest goal at the Steel Blade Classic will be giving fans an unforgettable night of hockey.

Known for its electric atmosphere, the annual Steel Blade showdown will see the Badgers face off against the Guelph Gryphons Friday, Sept. 18 with a 7 p.m. puck drop. Part of Brock’s Homecoming celebrations, the event brings together the University and Niagara communities for what is considered one of the most highly anticipated games of the year.

It’s a moment Alex Blanchard has been waiting for.

Although this is the first season the Modern Languages student is suiting up for the Badgers, he’s long heard about the unmatched energy the game brings to downtown St. Catharines.

“I’m really looking forward to finally being a part of it, especially getting to experience the atmosphere, compete against Guelph and represent Brock in front of my hometown crowd,” says the defenceman.

The Pelham native says playing in front of his community at the biggest arena in the region holds special meaning — and he’s not alone. This year’s men’s Badgers hockey team includes eight local players who grew up skating in Niagara’s rinks.

“Growing up playing hockey in Niagara, the Brock University men’s hockey program was something that many young players looked up to and hoped to play for one day,” Blanchard says. “To now have the opportunity to wear the Badgers jersey and represent my hometown in front of friends, family and the local hockey community makes this game especially meaningful.”

It’s that connection to community that has made the Steel Blade a “can’t miss” event since the inaugural faceoff in 1999, says Melissa Krist, Executive Director of Brock Sports and Recreation.

“It’s more than a Brock tradition; it’s a proud Niagara tradition — one that showcases the passion, excitement and energy of university sport,” she says. “If you haven’t experienced it for yourself, this is your year.”

Tickets for the Steel Blade Classic are available on Ticketmaster for $35. Brock graduates are invited to purchase an Alumni Ticket, which includes exclusive VIP access to the Alumni Club Level fourth-floor lounge featuring premium bird’s-eye view seating, access to a private bar and complimentary club-level food offerings. For those looking to enhance their game-day experience, an Alumni Package is also available that includes all Alumni Ticket benefits, plus four Alumni Club Level tickets and one commemorative Brock Badgers hockey jersey.