For the 16th time since 2006, the Newmarket Renegades and Aurora Tigers will go toe-to-toe on the ice in the Battle of Yonge Street.
From Oct. 27 to 29, the two organizations will see more than 40 games in Newmarket and Aurora take place between various age groups and levels as they compete for town pride.
Leaning into the fun of the rivalry, the losing town of the series has to hang up the winning town's hockey jersey in their hockey office for the year as part of the bragging rights.
“I think it’s important to have a community event with our neighbours like this because it shows people who aren’t even into the sport that it’s all about fun,” said Lynda Carusi, president of Newmarket Minor Hockey Association.
With the series dating back almost 20 years, the Battle of Yonge Street has seen more than 500 games played between the two programs on the ceremonial weekend.
“It started to get us back to good ol’ old town hockey and bring the two communities together,” said Carusi. “It brings people together.”
Carusi said that many of the hockey players look forward to the weekend because it feels so big, especially the younger players.
“They feel like it’s almost like they’re in a tournament,” she said.
Gift bags will be donated by Dickie’s No Frills for the players of each game and local vendors will be set up at the Magna Centre to help support local businesses.
The series also raises funds for the community with a drive for the Newmarket Food Pantry throughout the weekend. Last year, more than 700 pounds of food was delivered to the food pantry after the tournament.
“We want to support our local people,” said Carusi. “It’s a challenging time for everybody.”
At the end of the weekend, wins are tallied up to see which town will take home the Battle of Yonge Street trophy.
In 2022, the Renegades took home the title with the final point total of 41-35 for Newmarket, breaking the overall series tie. Newmarket has won the Battle of Yonge Street eight times to Aurora’s seven.
Dignitaries will be in attendance for the official puck drop on Friday at 8 p.m. ahead of the U18 AA game at Ray Twinney Recreation Complex, 100 Eagle St. W., both Newmarket Mayor John Taylor and Aurora Mayor Tom Mrakas are expected to attend.
