An Epochal Open Letter from Brady Tkachuk to the Ottawa Senators, Fans, and the Whole Ottawa Senators Community
Dear Ottawa Senators family,
From the moment I went onto the ice in the Senators jersey, I felt the weight of a city, a legacy, and a dream on my shoulders. And what a lovely journey it has been. As I sit down to write this letter, my heart is filled with enormous gratitude, love, and reflection—for everything you, the Ottawa Senators organization, the fans, and the entire city have done to influence not only my profession, but also my life.
Thank you, Senators organization, for believing in a young child with a fire in his heart and a stick in his hand. Your confidence in me, from drafting me to entrusting me with the captaincy, has been a pillar of my growth as a player and a person. You’ve created an environment in which I can develop, struggle, learn, and ultimately thrive. The culture you’ve created here is based on heart, determination, and pride, and I am thrilled to be a part of that.
To my teammates, past and present, you are more than just competitors; you are brothers. Every day in the locker room, on the ice, and on the road, you have pushed me to be the greatest version of myself. We’ve shared victories, defeats, late-night flights, and early-morning practices, and we’ve grown together as a family.
To the fans, your unfailing support has seen me through every high and low. Whether it’s a deafening cheer at the Canadian Tire Centre after a goal or a word of encouragement during a tough stretch, you’ve made me feel loved and supported beyond measure. You’ve never asked me to be perfect—you’ve only asked me to give my all, and I’ve always tried to do just that.
To the Ottawa community, you’ve accepted me not only as a player, but also as a person. This city has become my home, and its inhabitants have given me inspiration. The kids I’ve met at neighborhood rinks, the supporters I’ve talked to at local events, and the countless families who proudly wear the Senators colors—you’ve all left a mark on my soul.
I’ve always approached this game with enthusiasm, grit, and a lot of heart. And everything I do on the rink reflects the people who have supported me. Understand that every goal, assist, and shift was motivated by a desire to make you proud.
This isn’t a farewell; it’s an expression of gratitude. A milestone at which I pause to reflect on my journey thus far and look forward to what is ahead. We’re creating something great here in Ottawa, and I’m happy to continue leading the way.
Thank you for being the fuel for my fire. This adventure would not be the same without you.
With my whole heart,
Brady Tkachuk
#GoSensGo ❤️🏒🇨🇦.