Ottawa welcomes new Team Canada fans with citizenship ceremony ahead of the World Juniors

Newly sworn-in Canadian citizens don Team Canada jerseys at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa. Dec. 23, 2024. (Kimberley Johnson/CTV News Ottawa)

Ottawa is welcoming the world as it hosts the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship.

But first, some new Team Canada fans were sworn in at a citizenship ceremony at the Canadian Tire Centre on Monday.

A cheer and many happy faces were seen as 26 people became Canadian citizens.

It marked the end of a long journey for Gonzalo Lozano, whose young son was in the stands cheering him on. He first came to Canada as a university student, studying in Ottawa, and has worked toward this moment ever since.

"I just feel privileged to be here and actually become, like, a Canadian citizen in this. Such a nice way," Lozano said.

This is the first time a citizenship ceremony has taken place alongside the World Juniors. The new Canadians who were sworn in Monday came from 14 countries.

Hockey Canada says the game and welcoming newcomers are a great match up.

"It really is a commitment to the game and fun, integrity, fair play, and community. Exactly what these people are bringing to Canada as well," said Hockey Canada's Dean MacIntosh.

The Canadian Tire Centre is hosting the World Juniors and these new Canadians are excited to take in the game.

"I'm here, haha! It's a good thing," said Olusola Matthew Babatunde, watching his first hockey game at the CTC with his family.

Canada took on Czechia in a pre-tournament game Monday, winning 3-2.

The tournament officially gets underway on Boxing Day. Team Canada will take on Finland at the CTC, with new fans in attendance.

"Of course I'm Team Canada. How could I not be?" Lozano said, donning his first ever hockey jersey.