Behind the Scenes with the Ottawa Black Bears Cheer Team at Canadian Tire Centre

Sports

Apr 19

Group photo of the Ottawa Black Bears Cheer Team in uniform at Canadian Tire Centre, captured during their media day.

This past season, I had the absolute honour of photographing the Ottawa Black Bears Cheer Team, and what an experience it was. From high-flying stunts to behind-the-scenes moments, every part of this journey was packed with energy, passion, and pride.

As an Ottawa sports photographer, it’s always exciting to capture movement and momentum — and this team brought that in full force. Whether it was sharp choreography mid-game, synchronized tosses that left jaws on the floor, or the electric vibe during their walk-ins, the Ottawa cheerleaders delivered it all with heart and intensity.

Cheerleader from the Ottawa Black Bears performing with pom-poms on game day at Canadian Tire Centre.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleader mid-air during a high stunt at Canadian Tire Centre, with teammates catching below.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleaders dancing in formation in front of a live crowd during a game at Canadian Tire Centre.

Two Ottawa Black Bears cheerleaders performing synchronized tosses during a halftime routine.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleader striking a final pose during their game day routine, holding pom-poms high.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleaders bringing energy and excitement to the field during a performance at Canadian Tire Centre.

We also held a full media day, complete with studio portraits, posed action shots, and even a few fun props (like lacrosse sticks!) to tie in their team spirit. These polished visuals weren’t just for fun — they were created to help the team shine across social media, promotions, and branding for the season.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleader striking a full-body pose with red and black pom-poms during studio photo day.

Cheerleader from the Ottawa Black Bears posing with a lacrosse stick, smiling in front of a white studio backdrop.

Cheerleader from the Ottawa Black Bears posing confidently with pom-poms on a white background during media day.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleader holding a lacrosse stick across her shoulders in uniform during team media day.

One of my favourite parts? The game day walk-ins. We documented the team as they arrived at Canadian Tire Centre, looking fierce and focused — kind of like a fashion runway meets game day hype. It added such a cool storytelling layer to their visual content.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleader wearing a black dress during game day walk-in, photographed at Canadian Tire Centre.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleader walking in with a white top and leather pants before game day at Canadian Tire Centre.

Still, it wasn’t just the performances or the poses — it was the in-between moments that really stood out. The laughs during warm-ups, the quick pep talks, and the way they supported each other through every routine reminded me what teamwork really looks like.

Line of Ottawa Black Bears cheerleaders standing in formation during pre-game at Canadian Tire Centre, holding pom-poms.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleaders running onto the field with energy during a game day entrance at Canadian Tire Centre.

Ottawa Black Bears cheerleaders lined up on the field, smiling during a break in performance at Canadian Tire Centre.

Whether they were revving up the crowd or pulling off those gravity-defying stunts, this group made it clear that Ottawa cheerleaders bring the same level of dedication and athleticism as any team on the ice. If you're looking for Ottawa sports photography for your team, event, or brand, I’d love to connect!