Belleville Bulls Night Community News Release Share this Belleville’s barn still buzzing after annual Bulls Tribute Night March 31, 2026 Despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, March 28, the Belleville Senators’ annual Belleville Bulls Tribute Night was full of celebration as the gold and red-clad Senators celebrated the history of hockey in the Bay of Quinte region while supporting the future of the game through a partnership with the Belleville Minor Hockey Association. This season, the Senators honoured the memorable OHL Eastern Conference Championship Bulls team of 2007-2008, and donned gold jerseys featuring the charging bull logo, replicating the alternate uniforms worn by the Bulls that season. Before the puck dropped, the team proudly welcomed back alumni from that 2007/08 team, including Assistant Coach Jake Grimes, forward Keaton Turkiewicz, defencemen Andrew Self and Shawn Lalonde, Goaltender Mike Murphy, and Captain Matt Beleskey. The group was recognized at centre ice during the ceremonial puck drop, which followed a video feature narrated by legendary Bulls radio broadcaster Jack Miller, which outlined the Bulls’ special run to the CHL’s Memorial Cup Championship in Kitchener in the spring of 2008. Throughout the night, the Senators welcomed back Bulls alumni from other seasons as well, with names like Randy Rowe, David Silverstone, Andrew Ming and Justin Lemke, sharing the spotlight during the first intermission, while the 2007/08 Bulls in attendance took part in a meet-and-greet autograph session with fans. “It’s just so respectful for them to take the time with us,” said Grimes, who represented the Bulls as both a coach and a player. “The entire organization has been fantastic, guiding us through things, and having us meet the players before the game. They’re working hard and in the middle of their own games and playoff race, and to make the time for us, it just feels really good.” Grimes added, “It’s just such an amazing place to play and live, and you feel a lot of love.” Along with the dozen or so alumni who were able to attend, another herd of former Bulls sent video messages back to the community they called home during their junior hockey careers, reminding fans how much of an impact the City of Belleville and Bay of Quinte have had on their lives. Among them, was former Bulls Captain Eric Tangradi. “I think it’s awesome that the Belleville Senators are having a tribute night to the Bulls,” said Tangradi in his video message. I know they were a huge part of my life and that they meant a lot to the community.” Longtime Bulls’ bench boss George Burnett also sent in a greeting, thanking the Senators for “recognizing this very special group of young men.” To the Belleville community, thank you for your support of this very unique group of characters on a memorable journey,” added Burnett. Perhaps one of the loudest cheers of the night also came when one of the Bulls’ most notable alumni flashed his trademark grin on screen. “BelleVegas! What a city, what a town, what a community,” said former Bulls’ defenceman and NHL standout PK Subban. “To the Belleville Senators,” Subban added, “I think it’s awesome that you are taking a moment to honour that team because in Belleville, it’s all about community and in 2008, I believe we galvanized the community with that run. I wish I could be there tonight, but it’s awesome that we are being honoured and I think the world of Belleville. What a great town.” With the night already focused on celebrating local hockey success, another former Bull was in the building not only to relive memories of wearing the black and gold but also to celebrate a recent championship. In attendance with his recently crowned 2026 OFSAA Boys A/AA Championship hockey squad from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, Titans Head Coach Steve Tracze also commented on the impact of the Senators’ Bulls Night: “Belleville is a big hockey community, starting with the MacFarlands a long time ago, and then the Bulls came in. You can see over the last three years hosting these nights, it’s some of the biggest crowds because of the memories they have.” In addition to celebrating the old OHL Bulls, the Senators were proud to help honour the accomplishments of multiple Belleville Minor Hockey Association teams in attendance, as the BMHA has proudly carried on the legacy of the Bulls name in the Friendly City. The U13 AA team’s efforts to raise over $16,000 in support of Belleville General Hospital through their annual Pink in the Rink games were celebrated during the first period, and in the third period, the Senators recognized the U10 A team, who were crowned OMHA Lakeshore League Champions, punching their ticket to OMHA Championship. The AHL Senators also bolstered the BMHA’s fundraising efforts in support of grassroots, local hockey programming, raising close to $2,000 during an intermission Chuck-A-Puck. And, fans still have the opportunity to support the BMHA through the Senators’ Autographed Game Worn Jersey Auction, which is live now, with bids available to be placed by clicking here. With the Auction set to close Sunday, April 5th, this is fans opportunities to bring home a unique piece of merchandise while supporting a great cause in our community. You can click here to check out our 2025-26 Belleville Bulls Tribute Night playlist on the BSEN Youtube page. Single-game tickets for the final two home games of the 2025-26 regular season are now on sale via Ticketmaster or at the Belleville Sens Box Office located inside the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre. Details on season seat memberships, flex packs, premium seating, the Business Edge program, and more can be found by visiting the Belleville Sens Website. — Visit the Belleville Sens website: www.bellevillesens.com Engage with the Belleville Sens on X: @BellevilleSens Like the Belleville Sens on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BellevilleSens Follow the Belleville Sens on Instagram: @BellevilleSens Listen to the Belleville Sens on Mixlr: www.bellevillesens.mixlr.com
Despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, March 28, the Belleville Senators’ annual Belleville Bulls Tribute Night was full of celebration as the gold and red-clad Senators celebrated the history of hockey in the Bay of Quinte region while supporting the future of the game through a partnership with the Belleville Minor Hockey Association. This season, the Senators honoured the memorable OHL Eastern Conference Championship Bulls team of 2007-2008, and donned gold jerseys featuring the charging bull logo, replicating the alternate uniforms worn by the Bulls that season. Before the puck dropped, the team proudly welcomed back alumni from that 2007/08 team, including Assistant Coach Jake Grimes, forward Keaton Turkiewicz, defencemen Andrew Self and Shawn Lalonde, Goaltender Mike Murphy, and Captain Matt Beleskey. The group was recognized at centre ice during the ceremonial puck drop, which followed a video feature narrated by legendary Bulls radio broadcaster Jack Miller, which outlined the Bulls’ special run to the CHL’s Memorial Cup Championship in Kitchener in the spring of 2008. Throughout the night, the Senators welcomed back Bulls alumni from other seasons as well, with names like Randy Rowe, David Silverstone, Andrew Ming and Justin Lemke, sharing the spotlight during the first intermission, while the 2007/08 Bulls in attendance took part in a meet-and-greet autograph session with fans. “It’s just so respectful for them to take the time with us,” said Grimes, who represented the Bulls as both a coach and a player. “The entire organization has been fantastic, guiding us through things, and having us meet the players before the game. They’re working hard and in the middle of their own games and playoff race, and to make the time for us, it just feels really good.” Grimes added, “It’s just such an amazing place to play and live, and you feel a lot of love.” Along with the dozen or so alumni who were able to attend, another herd of former Bulls sent video messages back to the community they called home during their junior hockey careers, reminding fans how much of an impact the City of Belleville and Bay of Quinte have had on their lives. Among them, was former Bulls Captain Eric Tangradi. “I think it’s awesome that the Belleville Senators are having a tribute night to the Bulls,” said Tangradi in his video message. I know they were a huge part of my life and that they meant a lot to the community.” Longtime Bulls’ bench boss George Burnett also sent in a greeting, thanking the Senators for “recognizing this very special group of young men.” To the Belleville community, thank you for your support of this very unique group of characters on a memorable journey,” added Burnett. Perhaps one of the loudest cheers of the night also came when one of the Bulls’ most notable alumni flashed his trademark grin on screen. “BelleVegas! What a city, what a town, what a community,” said former Bulls’ defenceman and NHL standout PK Subban. “To the Belleville Senators,” Subban added, “I think it’s awesome that you are taking a moment to honour that team because in Belleville, it’s all about community and in 2008, I believe we galvanized the community with that run. I wish I could be there tonight, but it’s awesome that we are being honoured and I think the world of Belleville. What a great town.” With the night already focused on celebrating local hockey success, another former Bull was in the building not only to relive memories of wearing the black and gold but also to celebrate a recent championship. In attendance with his recently crowned 2026 OFSAA Boys A/AA Championship hockey squad from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, Titans Head Coach Steve Tracze also commented on the impact of the Senators’ Bulls Night: “Belleville is a big hockey community, starting with the MacFarlands a long time ago, and then the Bulls came in. You can see over the last three years hosting these nights, it’s some of the biggest crowds because of the memories they have.” In addition to celebrating the old OHL Bulls, the Senators were proud to help honour the accomplishments of multiple Belleville Minor Hockey Association teams in attendance, as the BMHA has proudly carried on the legacy of the Bulls name in the Friendly City. The U13 AA team’s efforts to raise over $16,000 in support of Belleville General Hospital through their annual Pink in the Rink games were celebrated during the first period, and in the third period, the Senators recognized the U10 A team, who were crowned OMHA Lakeshore League Champions, punching their ticket to OMHA Championship. The AHL Senators also bolstered the BMHA’s fundraising efforts in support of grassroots, local hockey programming, raising close to $2,000 during an intermission Chuck-A-Puck. And, fans still have the opportunity to support the BMHA through the Senators’ Autographed Game Worn Jersey Auction, which is live now, with bids available to be placed by clicking here. With the Auction set to close Sunday, April 5th, this is fans opportunities to bring home a unique piece of merchandise while supporting a great cause in our community. You can click here to check out our 2025-26 Belleville Bulls Tribute Night playlist on the BSEN Youtube page. Single-game tickets for the final two home games of the 2025-26 regular season are now on sale via Ticketmaster or at the Belleville Sens Box Office located inside the Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre. Details on season seat memberships, flex packs, premium seating, the Business Edge program, and more can be found by visiting the Belleville Sens Website. — Visit the Belleville Sens website: www.bellevillesens.com Engage with the Belleville Sens on X: @BellevilleSens Like the Belleville Sens on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BellevilleSens Follow the Belleville Sens on Instagram: @BellevilleSens Listen to the Belleville Sens on Mixlr: www.bellevillesens.mixlr.com
Despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, March 28, the Belleville Senators’ annual Belleville Bulls Tribute Night was full of celebration as the gold and red-clad Senators celebrated the history of hockey in the Bay of Quinte region while supporting the future of the game through a partnership with the Belleville Minor Hockey Association. This season, the Senators honoured the memorable OHL Eastern Conference Championship Bulls team of 2007-2008, and donned gold jerseys featuring the charging bull logo, replicating the alternate uniforms worn by the Bulls that season. Before the puck dropped, the team proudly welcomed back alumni from that 2007/08 team, including Assistant Coach Jake Grimes, forward Keaton Turkiewicz, defencemen Andrew Self and Shawn Lalonde, Goaltender Mike Murphy, and Captain Matt Beleskey. The group was recognized at centre ice during the ceremonial puck drop, which followed a video feature narrated by legendary Bulls radio broadcaster Jack Miller, which outlined the Bulls’ special run to the CHL’s Memorial Cup Championship in Kitchener in the spring of 2008. Throughout the night, the Senators welcomed back Bulls alumni from other seasons as well, with names like Randy Rowe, David Silverstone, Andrew Ming and Justin Lemke, sharing the spotlight during the first intermission, while the 2007/08 Bulls in attendance took part in a meet-and-greet autograph session with fans. “It’s just so respectful for them to take the time with us,” said Grimes, who represented the Bulls as both a coach and a player. “The entire organization has been fantastic, guiding us through things, and having us meet the players before the game. They’re working hard and in the middle of their own games and playoff race, and to make the time for us, it just feels really good.” Grimes added, “It’s just such an amazing place to play and live, and you feel a lot of love.” Along with the dozen or so alumni who were able to attend, another herd of former Bulls sent video messages back to the community they called home during their junior hockey careers, reminding fans how much of an impact the City of Belleville and Bay of Quinte have had on their lives. Among them, was former Bulls Captain Eric Tangradi. “I think it’s awesome that the Belleville Senators are having a tribute night to the Bulls,” said Tangradi in his video message. I know they were a huge part of my life and that they meant a lot to the community.” Longtime Bulls’ bench boss George Burnett also sent in a greeting, thanking the Senators for “recognizing this very special group of young men.” To the Belleville community, thank you for your support of this very unique group of characters on a memorable journey,” added Burnett. Perhaps one of the loudest cheers of the night also came when one of the Bulls’ most notable alumni flashed his trademark grin on screen. “BelleVegas! What a city, what a town, what a community,” said former Bulls’ defenceman and NHL standout PK Subban. “To the Belleville Senators,” Subban added, “I think it’s awesome that you are taking a moment to honour that team because in Belleville, it’s all about community and in 2008, I believe we galvanized the community with that run. I wish I could be there tonight, but it’s awesome that we are being honoured and I think the world of Belleville. What a great town.” With the night already focused on celebrating local hockey success, another former Bull was in the building not only to relive memories of wearing the black and gold but also to celebrate a recent championship. In attendance with his recently crowned 2026 OFSAA Boys A/AA Championship hockey squad from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, Titans Head Coach Steve Tracze also commented on the impact of the Senators’ Bulls Night: “Belleville is a big hockey community, starting with the MacFarlands a long time ago, and then the Bulls came in. You can see over the last three years hosting these nights, it’s some of the biggest crowds because of the memories they have.” In addition to celebrating the old OHL Bulls, the Senators were proud to help honour the accomplishments of multiple Belleville Minor Hockey Association teams in attendance, as the BMHA has proudly carried on the legacy of the Bulls name in the Friendly City. The U13 AA team’s efforts to raise over $16,000 in support of Belleville General Hospital through their annual Pink in the Rink games were celebrated during the first period, and in the third period, the Senators recognized the U10 A team, who were crowned OMHA Lakeshore League Champions, punching their ticket to OMHA Championship. The AHL Senators also bolstered the BMHA’s fundraising efforts in support of grassroots, local hockey programming, raising close to $2,000 during an intermission Chuck-A-Puck. And, fans still have the opportunity to support the BMHA through the Senators’ Autographed Game Worn Jersey Auction, which is live now, with bids available to be placed by clicking here. With the Auction set to close Sunday, April 5th, this is fans opportunities to bring home a unique piece of merchandise while supporting a great cause in our community. You can click here to check out our 2025-26 Belleville Bulls Tribute Night playlist on the BSEN Youtube page.
Despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, March 28, the Belleville Senators’ annual Belleville Bulls Tribute Night was full of celebration as the gold and red-clad Senators celebrated the history of hockey in the Bay of Quinte region while supporting the future of the game through a partnership with the Belleville Minor Hockey Association. This season, the Senators honoured the memorable OHL Eastern Conference Championship Bulls team of 2007-2008, and donned gold jerseys featuring the charging bull logo, replicating the alternate uniforms worn by the Bulls that season. Before the puck dropped, the team proudly welcomed back alumni from that 2007/08 team, including Assistant Coach Jake Grimes, forward Keaton Turkiewicz, defencemen Andrew Self and Shawn Lalonde, Goaltender Mike Murphy, and Captain Matt Beleskey. The group was recognized at centre ice during the ceremonial puck drop, which followed a video feature narrated by legendary Bulls radio broadcaster Jack Miller, which outlined the Bulls’ special run to the CHL’s Memorial Cup Championship in Kitchener in the spring of 2008. Throughout the night, the Senators welcomed back Bulls alumni from other seasons as well, with names like Randy Rowe, David Silverstone, Andrew Ming and Justin Lemke, sharing the spotlight during the first intermission, while the 2007/08 Bulls in attendance took part in a meet-and-greet autograph session with fans. “It’s just so respectful for them to take the time with us,” said Grimes, who represented the Bulls as both a coach and a player. “The entire organization has been fantastic, guiding us through things, and having us meet the players before the game. They’re working hard and in the middle of their own games and playoff race, and to make the time for us, it just feels really good.” Grimes added, “It’s just such an amazing place to play and live, and you feel a lot of love.” Along with the dozen or so alumni who were able to attend, another herd of former Bulls sent video messages back to the community they called home during their junior hockey careers, reminding fans how much of an impact the City of Belleville and Bay of Quinte have had on their lives. Among them, was former Bulls Captain Eric Tangradi. “I think it’s awesome that the Belleville Senators are having a tribute night to the Bulls,” said Tangradi in his video message. I know they were a huge part of my life and that they meant a lot to the community.” Longtime Bulls’ bench boss George Burnett also sent in a greeting, thanking the Senators for “recognizing this very special group of young men.” To the Belleville community, thank you for your support of this very unique group of characters on a memorable journey,” added Burnett. Perhaps one of the loudest cheers of the night also came when one of the Bulls’ most notable alumni flashed his trademark grin on screen. “BelleVegas! What a city, what a town, what a community,” said former Bulls’ defenceman and NHL standout PK Subban. “To the Belleville Senators,” Subban added, “I think it’s awesome that you are taking a moment to honour that team because in Belleville, it’s all about community and in 2008, I believe we galvanized the community with that run. I wish I could be there tonight, but it’s awesome that we are being honoured and I think the world of Belleville. What a great town.” With the night already focused on celebrating local hockey success, another former Bull was in the building not only to relive memories of wearing the black and gold but also to celebrate a recent championship. In attendance with his recently crowned 2026 OFSAA Boys A/AA Championship hockey squad from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, Titans Head Coach Steve Tracze also commented on the impact of the Senators’ Bulls Night: “Belleville is a big hockey community, starting with the MacFarlands a long time ago, and then the Bulls came in. You can see over the last three years hosting these nights, it’s some of the biggest crowds because of the memories they have.” In addition to celebrating the old OHL Bulls, the Senators were proud to help honour the accomplishments of multiple Belleville Minor Hockey Association teams in attendance, as the BMHA has proudly carried on the legacy of the Bulls name in the Friendly City. The U13 AA team’s efforts to raise over $16,000 in support of Belleville General Hospital through their annual Pink in the Rink games were celebrated during the first period, and in the third period, the Senators recognized the U10 A team, who were crowned OMHA Lakeshore League Champions, punching their ticket to OMHA Championship. The AHL Senators also bolstered the BMHA’s fundraising efforts in support of grassroots, local hockey programming, raising close to $2,000 during an intermission Chuck-A-Puck. And, fans still have the opportunity to support the BMHA through the Senators’ Autographed Game Worn Jersey Auction, which is live now, with bids available to be placed by clicking here. With the Auction set to close Sunday, April 5th, this is fans opportunities to bring home a unique piece of merchandise while supporting a great cause in our community. You can click here to check out our 2025-26 Belleville Bulls Tribute Night playlist on the BSEN Youtube page.
Despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, March 28, the Belleville Senators’ annual Belleville Bulls Tribute Night was full of celebration as the gold and red-clad Senators celebrated the history of hockey in the Bay of Quinte region while supporting the future of the game through a partnership with the Belleville Minor Hockey Association. This season, the Senators honoured the memorable OHL Eastern Conference Championship Bulls team of 2007-2008, and donned gold jerseys featuring the charging bull logo, replicating the alternate uniforms worn by the Bulls that season. Before the puck dropped, the team proudly welcomed back alumni from that 2007/08 team, including Assistant Coach Jake Grimes, forward Keaton Turkiewicz, defencemen Andrew Self and Shawn Lalonde, Goaltender Mike Murphy, and Captain Matt Beleskey. The group was recognized at centre ice during the ceremonial puck drop, which followed a video feature narrated by legendary Bulls radio broadcaster Jack Miller, which outlined the Bulls’ special run to the CHL’s Memorial Cup Championship in Kitchener in the spring of 2008. Throughout the night, the Senators welcomed back Bulls alumni from other seasons as well, with names like Randy Rowe, David Silverstone, Andrew Ming and Justin Lemke, sharing the spotlight during the first intermission, while the 2007/08 Bulls in attendance took part in a meet-and-greet autograph session with fans. “It’s just so respectful for them to take the time with us,” said Grimes, who represented the Bulls as both a coach and a player. “The entire organization has been fantastic, guiding us through things, and having us meet the players before the game. They’re working hard and in the middle of their own games and playoff race, and to make the time for us, it just feels really good.” Grimes added, “It’s just such an amazing place to play and live, and you feel a lot of love.” Along with the dozen or so alumni who were able to attend, another herd of former Bulls sent video messages back to the community they called home during their junior hockey careers, reminding fans how much of an impact the City of Belleville and Bay of Quinte have had on their lives. Among them, was former Bulls Captain Eric Tangradi. “I think it’s awesome that the Belleville Senators are having a tribute night to the Bulls,” said Tangradi in his video message. I know they were a huge part of my life and that they meant a lot to the community.” Longtime Bulls’ bench boss George Burnett also sent in a greeting, thanking the Senators for “recognizing this very special group of young men.” To the Belleville community, thank you for your support of this very unique group of characters on a memorable journey,” added Burnett. Perhaps one of the loudest cheers of the night also came when one of the Bulls’ most notable alumni flashed his trademark grin on screen. “BelleVegas! What a city, what a town, what a community,” said former Bulls’ defenceman and NHL standout PK Subban. “To the Belleville Senators,” Subban added, “I think it’s awesome that you are taking a moment to honour that team because in Belleville, it’s all about community and in 2008, I believe we galvanized the community with that run. I wish I could be there tonight, but it’s awesome that we are being honoured and I think the world of Belleville. What a great town.” With the night already focused on celebrating local hockey success, another former Bull was in the building not only to relive memories of wearing the black and gold but also to celebrate a recent championship. In attendance with his recently crowned 2026 OFSAA Boys A/AA Championship hockey squad from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, Titans Head Coach Steve Tracze also commented on the impact of the Senators’ Bulls Night: “Belleville is a big hockey community, starting with the MacFarlands a long time ago, and then the Bulls came in. You can see over the last three years hosting these nights, it’s some of the biggest crowds because of the memories they have.” In addition to celebrating the old OHL Bulls, the Senators were proud to help honour the accomplishments of multiple Belleville Minor Hockey Association teams in attendance, as the BMHA has proudly carried on the legacy of the Bulls name in the Friendly City. The U13 AA team’s efforts to raise over $16,000 in support of Belleville General Hospital through their annual Pink in the Rink games were celebrated during the first period, and in the third period, the Senators recognized the U10 A team, who were crowned OMHA Lakeshore League Champions, punching their ticket to OMHA Championship. The AHL Senators also bolstered the BMHA’s fundraising efforts in support of grassroots, local hockey programming, raising close to $2,000 during an intermission Chuck-A-Puck. And, fans still have the opportunity to support the BMHA through the Senators’ Autographed Game Worn Jersey Auction, which is live now, with bids available to be placed by clicking here. With the Auction set to close Sunday, April 5th, this is fans opportunities to bring home a unique piece of merchandise while supporting a great cause in our community. You can click here to check out our 2025-26 Belleville Bulls Tribute Night playlist on the BSEN Youtube page.
Despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, March 28, the Belleville Senators’ annual Belleville Bulls Tribute Night was full of celebration as the gold and red-clad Senators celebrated the history of hockey in the Bay of Quinte region while supporting the future of the game through a partnership with the Belleville Minor Hockey Association. This season, the Senators honoured the memorable OHL Eastern Conference Championship Bulls team of 2007-2008, and donned gold jerseys featuring the charging bull logo, replicating the alternate uniforms worn by the Bulls that season. Before the puck dropped, the team proudly welcomed back alumni from that 2007/08 team, including Assistant Coach Jake Grimes, forward Keaton Turkiewicz, defencemen Andrew Self and Shawn Lalonde, Goaltender Mike Murphy, and Captain Matt Beleskey. The group was recognized at centre ice during the ceremonial puck drop, which followed a video feature narrated by legendary Bulls radio broadcaster Jack Miller, which outlined the Bulls’ special run to the CHL’s Memorial Cup Championship in Kitchener in the spring of 2008. Throughout the night, the Senators welcomed back Bulls alumni from other seasons as well, with names like Randy Rowe, David Silverstone, Andrew Ming and Justin Lemke, sharing the spotlight during the first intermission, while the 2007/08 Bulls in attendance took part in a meet-and-greet autograph session with fans. “It’s just so respectful for them to take the time with us,” said Grimes, who represented the Bulls as both a coach and a player. “The entire organization has been fantastic, guiding us through things, and having us meet the players before the game. They’re working hard and in the middle of their own games and playoff race, and to make the time for us, it just feels really good.” Grimes added, “It’s just such an amazing place to play and live, and you feel a lot of love.” Along with the dozen or so alumni who were able to attend, another herd of former Bulls sent video messages back to the community they called home during their junior hockey careers, reminding fans how much of an impact the City of Belleville and Bay of Quinte have had on their lives. Among them, was former Bulls Captain Eric Tangradi. “I think it’s awesome that the Belleville Senators are having a tribute night to the Bulls,” said Tangradi in his video message. I know they were a huge part of my life and that they meant a lot to the community.” Longtime Bulls’ bench boss George Burnett also sent in a greeting, thanking the Senators for “recognizing this very special group of young men.” To the Belleville community, thank you for your support of this very unique group of characters on a memorable journey,” added Burnett. Perhaps one of the loudest cheers of the night also came when one of the Bulls’ most notable alumni flashed his trademark grin on screen. “BelleVegas! What a city, what a town, what a community,” said former Bulls’ defenceman and NHL standout PK Subban. “To the Belleville Senators,” Subban added, “I think it’s awesome that you are taking a moment to honour that team because in Belleville, it’s all about community and in 2008, I believe we galvanized the community with that run. I wish I could be there tonight, but it’s awesome that we are being honoured and I think the world of Belleville. What a great town.” With the night already focused on celebrating local hockey success, another former Bull was in the building not only to relive memories of wearing the black and gold but also to celebrate a recent championship. In attendance with his recently crowned 2026 OFSAA Boys A/AA Championship hockey squad from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, Titans Head Coach Steve Tracze also commented on the impact of the Senators’ Bulls Night: “Belleville is a big hockey community, starting with the MacFarlands a long time ago, and then the Bulls came in. You can see over the last three years hosting these nights, it’s some of the biggest crowds because of the memories they have.” In addition to celebrating the old OHL Bulls, the Senators were proud to help honour the accomplishments of multiple Belleville Minor Hockey Association teams in attendance, as the BMHA has proudly carried on the legacy of the Bulls name in the Friendly City. The U13 AA team’s efforts to raise over $16,000 in support of Belleville General Hospital through their annual Pink in the Rink games were celebrated during the first period, and in the third period, the Senators recognized the U10 A team, who were crowned OMHA Lakeshore League Champions, punching their ticket to OMHA Championship. The AHL Senators also bolstered the BMHA’s fundraising efforts in support of grassroots, local hockey programming, raising close to $2,000 during an intermission Chuck-A-Puck. And, fans still have the opportunity to support the BMHA through the Senators’ Autographed Game Worn Jersey Auction, which is live now, with bids available to be placed by clicking here. With the Auction set to close Sunday, April 5th, this is fans opportunities to bring home a unique piece of merchandise while supporting a great cause in our community. You can click here to check out our 2025-26 Belleville Bulls Tribute Night playlist on the BSEN Youtube page.
Despite a narrow 1-0 loss to the Manitoba Moose on Saturday, March 28, the Belleville Senators’ annual Belleville Bulls Tribute Night was full of celebration as the gold and red-clad Senators celebrated the history of hockey in the Bay of Quinte region while supporting the future of the game through a partnership with the Belleville Minor Hockey Association. This season, the Senators honoured the memorable OHL Eastern Conference Championship Bulls team of 2007-2008, and donned gold jerseys featuring the charging bull logo, replicating the alternate uniforms worn by the Bulls that season. Before the puck dropped, the team proudly welcomed back alumni from that 2007/08 team, including Assistant Coach Jake Grimes, forward Keaton Turkiewicz, defencemen Andrew Self and Shawn Lalonde, Goaltender Mike Murphy, and Captain Matt Beleskey. The group was recognized at centre ice during the ceremonial puck drop, which followed a video feature narrated by legendary Bulls radio broadcaster Jack Miller, which outlined the Bulls’ special run to the CHL’s Memorial Cup Championship in Kitchener in the spring of 2008. Throughout the night, the Senators welcomed back Bulls alumni from other seasons as well, with names like Randy Rowe, David Silverstone, Andrew Ming and Justin Lemke, sharing the spotlight during the first intermission, while the 2007/08 Bulls in attendance took part in a meet-and-greet autograph session with fans. “It’s just so respectful for them to take the time with us,” said Grimes, who represented the Bulls as both a coach and a player. “The entire organization has been fantastic, guiding us through things, and having us meet the players before the game. They’re working hard and in the middle of their own games and playoff race, and to make the time for us, it just feels really good.” Grimes added, “It’s just such an amazing place to play and live, and you feel a lot of love.” Along with the dozen or so alumni who were able to attend, another herd of former Bulls sent video messages back to the community they called home during their junior hockey careers, reminding fans how much of an impact the City of Belleville and Bay of Quinte have had on their lives. Among them, was former Bulls Captain Eric Tangradi. “I think it’s awesome that the Belleville Senators are having a tribute night to the Bulls,” said Tangradi in his video message. I know they were a huge part of my life and that they meant a lot to the community.” Longtime Bulls’ bench boss George Burnett also sent in a greeting, thanking the Senators for “recognizing this very special group of young men.” To the Belleville community, thank you for your support of this very unique group of characters on a memorable journey,” added Burnett. Perhaps one of the loudest cheers of the night also came when one of the Bulls’ most notable alumni flashed his trademark grin on screen. “BelleVegas! What a city, what a town, what a community,” said former Bulls’ defenceman and NHL standout PK Subban. “To the Belleville Senators,” Subban added, “I think it’s awesome that you are taking a moment to honour that team because in Belleville, it’s all about community and in 2008, I believe we galvanized the community with that run. I wish I could be there tonight, but it’s awesome that we are being honoured and I think the world of Belleville. What a great town.” With the night already focused on celebrating local hockey success, another former Bull was in the building not only to relive memories of wearing the black and gold but also to celebrate a recent championship. In attendance with his recently crowned 2026 OFSAA Boys A/AA Championship hockey squad from St. Theresa Catholic Secondary School, Titans Head Coach Steve Tracze also commented on the impact of the Senators’ Bulls Night: “Belleville is a big hockey community, starting with the MacFarlands a long time ago, and then the Bulls came in. You can see over the last three years hosting these nights, it’s some of the biggest crowds because of the memories they have.” In addition to celebrating the old OHL Bulls, the Senators were proud to help honour the accomplishments of multiple Belleville Minor Hockey Association teams in attendance, as the BMHA has proudly carried on the legacy of the Bulls name in the Friendly City. The U13 AA team’s efforts to raise over $16,000 in support of Belleville General Hospital through their annual Pink in the Rink games were celebrated during the first period, and in the third period, the Senators recognized the U10 A team, who were crowned OMHA Lakeshore League Champions, punching their ticket to OMHA Championship. The AHL Senators also bolstered the BMHA’s fundraising efforts in support of grassroots, local hockey programming, raising close to $2,000 during an intermission Chuck-A-Puck. And, fans still have the opportunity to support the BMHA through the Senators’ Autographed Game Worn Jersey Auction, which is live now, with bids available to be placed by clicking here. With the Auction set to close Sunday, April 5th, this is fans opportunities to bring home a unique piece of merchandise while supporting a great cause in our community. You can click here to check out our 2025-26 Belleville Bulls Tribute Night playlist on the BSEN Youtube page.
