A four-on-four hockey tournament is planned for this Saturday (Jan 26) at the ?Esdilagh First Nation’s new outdoor hockey rink.
Band Councillor Chad Stump says this will be the first year of what he hopes will be a long tradition of hockey tournaments on the ice.
The rink, which was just completed this summer, needs to be christened properly, and there is no better way to do it than a classic round-robin tournament.
Stump says they have ordered a trophy as well as some medals and will hope to start playing at 9 a.m. on Saturday.
“It’s to bring communities together that are not associated with ?Esdilagh First Nation,” he says, “And we want to promote healthy living and our people getting out and enjoying some fresh air, getting some exercise and meeting new people.”
“It will be great for all of our people and neighbours,” he adds. “Our young people have worked hard to help in constructing this rink. It will be a proud time for ?Esdilagh to promote a nice event for everyone.
“We’re hoping it puts us on the map.”
The tournament is the brainchild of Daryl Johnny.
“He works closely with youth in the community and wanted to get a little tournament going for anyone that wants to play.”
Stump says hot drinks and water will be available for everyone, and they are working towards getting a concession stand too.
Teams from Tl’etinqox First Nation (Anaham), Xeni Gwet’in First Nation (Nemiah) and Tsi Del Del (Redstone) have confirmed they will play, but the tournament is still open to anyone willing to join.
Entry fees are $200 per team.
Anyone interested can contact Daryl Johnny at 250-991-9045 or Cecil Grinder at 250-267-2189.
READ MORE: Local First Nation using mountain biking to engage youth
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