Storm and Rangers unite for Highway 7 Rivalry in support of Mental Health
One of the Ontario Hockey League’s most anticipated rivalries is taking on added significance this season. The Highway 7 Rivalry between the Kitchener Rangers and Guelph Storm brings two passionate hockey communities together each regular season. For 2026–2027, the clubs are building on that tradition with a new trophy, retro jerseys and a shared commitment to supporting Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington (CMHA WW).
“Having the Highway 7 Rivalry launch alongside nine other huge rivalry weekends across the OHL makes for an awesome spectacle for fans everywhere,” said Guelph Storm Vice President of Business Operations Matt Newby, “Whenever the Rangers visit, the Sleeman Centre is buzzing, and putting a new trophy on the line makes every game that much bigger. But what we’re most excited about is our collaborative focus off the ice. Teaming up with Kitchener and CMHA Waterloo Wellington allows us to direct all that passion toward raising crucial funds and awareness for mental health across our communities.”
The winner of the eight-game regular season series will have its name engraved on a new trophy featuring design elements representing both clubs. If the series is tied after eight games, the team with the greater goal differential in those matchups will be awarded the trophy.
“Rivalry Week is always something our fans look forward to, but this year we have an opportunity to make it about something bigger than what happens on the ice,” said Joe Birch, Chief Operating Officer and Governor of the Kitchener Rangers. “The Rangers and Storm may be rivals, but we share a responsibility to use our platforms and resources to make a positive impact. We’re proud to come together in support of CMHA Waterloo Wellington and help raise awareness and funds for the important mental health programs and services they provide across our region.”
Both organizations have longstanding relationships with CMHA WW through the league’s Talk Today program, charitable events, sponsored games and other initiatives. Launched in October 2014, Talk Today is a comprehensive mental health and suicide prevention program.
The Rangers and Storm will also celebrate their histories throughout the series by wearing retro jerseys. Kitchener unveiled its retro Tex jerseys on September 27, bringing back one of the most recognizable looks in Rangers history. Guelph will debut its retro jerseys on Friday, October 23.
Fans can see the special jerseys in action during five of the eight Highway 7 Rivalry matchups:
- Friday, October 23, at 7 p.m. — Guelph at Kitchener
- Sunday, October 25, at 2:07 p.m. — Kitchener at Guelph
- Saturday, December 19, at 2:07 p.m. — Kitchener at Guelph
- Wednesday, January 27, at 6:37 p.m. — Kitchener at Guelph
- Sunday, February 21, at 2 p.m. — Guelph at Kitchener
At the conclusion of the 2026–2027 regular season, each club will auction seven select jerseys worn during the Highway 7 Rivalry, giving fans the opportunity to own a piece of the series while supporting mental health in the region. Proceeds from both auctions will benefit CMHA WW, with the Rangers’ contribution made through Rangers Reach, the Kitchener Rangers Community Fund.
In addition to the jersey auctions, each club has pledged to donate $50 for every goal scored by its opponent during the eight-game series. For every Guelph goal, the Rangers will contribute $50 through Rangers Reach to CMHA WW, with the Storm donating $50 to CMHA WW for every Kitchener goal.
To purchase tickets online click here, over the phone by calling 866-STORM-GO, or in person at the Guelph Storm Box Office in the Sports Hall of Game Hallway of the Sleeman Centre.
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The 2026-2027 Season is proudly presented by Mark Wilson’s Better Used Cars
