Membertou to host National Aboriginal Hockey Championship
Membertou will host the 2018 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.
Team from across the country will compete at the event from May 1-14, 2018, at the Membertou Sport and Wellness Centre.
“I am proud to be bringing the 2018 National Aboriginal Hockey Championships back to Nova Scotia,” Jeff Spencer, chair of the National Aboriginal Hockey Program, said in a release. “Chief Paul and the community of Membertou have assembled a first-class team with an A-1 facility and know that this elite national championship will be well-received and hosted.”
The goal of the tournament is to help develop, enrich and advance the sport of hockey throughout Cape Breton.
There will also be a legacy program for Mi’kmaq youth in Cape Breton.
“We look forward to hosting this action-packed tournament right here in our community and to support aboriginal youth as they pursue their hockey dreams,” said Membertou Chief Terry Paul.
“This tournament is expected is bring many positive economic benefits to Cape Breton through local hotels and restaurants.”
The tournament will feature elite bantam and midget-aged Canadian Aboriginal hockey players. Along with a showcase of their athletic abilities, the tournament also aims to foster cultural unity and pride. It’s been held annually since 2001.
“Cape Breton is poised to show our world renowned hospitality and raise the bar for those communities hosting the event in the future,” said co-chair Gerard MacPhee. “The organizing committee is excited and ready to execute this national event and make the experience the best ever for participants, officials, partners, sponsors and fans from across Canada. We look forward to working closely with the NAHC and the community of Membertou.”