The future Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa has signed up Jakob Chychrun as its newest Community Ambassador ahead of an expected launch in 2025.

The NHL star, who was traded to the Ottawa Senators in March, will work with the Hard Rock team to promote local initiatives, including mental health programs.

It’s the latest milestone achieved by the company as it undergoes its two-year expansion of Rideau Carleton Casino into the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa.

Construction on the $467m project began in June and is expected to finish in Spring 2025 with Rideau Carleton Casino – the site of the new facility – continuing to operate until the renovation and rebranding of the property is complete.

The new casino will include 1,500 slot machines, 40 live-action table games, a Hard Rock Sportsbook, high-limit gaming and a Baccarat room, while the tradition of horse racing at the site will also live on.

Helen MacMillan, General Manager, Rideau Carleton Casino, Future Hard Rock, commented: “We are excited to welcome Jakob to the Hard Rock family, especially now as momentum builds towards the opening of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa in early 2025.

“Being from Boca Raton, Jakob really understands the Hard Rock brand, and looks forward to helping us introduce this world-class hospitality brand experience to more Canadians.”

Chychrun grew up in South Florida where Hard Rock International has its global headquarters, and his father, former NHLer Jeff Chychrun, was born near Ottawa in LaSalle, Quebec.

As ambassador, the defenseman will also support ‘money can’t buy experiences’, including appearances and participation in select VIP member experiences, such as dinners, golf games and other exclusive events.

“I am thrilled to partner with Hard Rock, a globally recognized entertainment brand, as they continue to shape the future of entertainment,” said Chychrun. “It’s a real privilege to join the Hard Rock International team of star athlete partnerships.

“The mutual work we are planning to undertake towards raising awareness of mental health initiatives is in perfect alignment with Hard Rock’s All is One and Love All-Serve All philosophies.

“It really is a win-win for the community.”

As his first act as Community Ambassador, Chychrun joined the Rideau Carleton Casino team last Saturday at a team member and VIP event, where he helped present a $10,000 cheque to the Alzheimer Society.

“As a new member of the Ottawa Senators organization, and someone with deep ties in the region, it is very important for me to build my local relationships with the community,” concluded Chychrun.

“I’m happy to have it start with Hard Rock.”