Skip to content
Home » Yukon First Nations Hockey Association

Yukon First Nations Hockey Association

    Yukon Indian Hockey Association Tournament

    In this informative article, you will learn all essential information about Yukon First Nations Hockey Association (or Yukon Indian Hockey Association): the details of its founding, the main tournaments held by this Association, and many more interesting facts.

    Foundation of Yukon First Nations Hockey Association and Its Main Mission

    Yukon Indian Hockey Association, nowadays called the Yukon First Nations Hockey Association, was founded back in 1973. For over 40 years the volunteer board’s hard work and devotion has been helping to achieve the main objective and mission of the Association which are to make popular the sport loved by millions of Yukon Canadians amongst the Yukon Indigenous peoples, to allow Yukon’s First Nation athletes to participate in the hockey competitions together with the citizens of other Canadian territories.

    Regardless of how well these people might play hockey or might not even be able to skate at all, anyone could feel part of the extended family that loves hockey through this Association. Through Yukon Indian Hockey Association tournaments, Yukon Indians could compete in this sport with other Canadian provinces.

    YFNHA Board of Directors: Guiding the Hockey Spirit

    Under the leadership of President Michelle Dawson-Beattie, the YFNHA Board of Directors plays a crucial role in steering the Association’s efforts. Their commitment ensures that hockey remains a vibrant part of Yukon’s cultural tapestry.

    Hockey in Yukon

    Yukon First Nations Hockey Association Tournament

    The Yukon First Nations Hockey Association Tournament, a cornerstone of the Whitehorse hockey scene, holds a special place in the hearts of First Nation communities. Organized by the dedicated Volunteer Council of the Yukon First Nations Hockey Association, this event is a prominent fixture in the world of Indigenous sports and a celebrated part of the aboriginal hockey tournament circuit.

    History and Evolution of the Tournament

    This major Yukon Indigenous tournament, deeply entrenched in the community for over 40 years, gathers players from across the North, Alberta, and British Columbia in Whitehorse. It's not only a central meeting point geographically but also symbolically significant, being held on the traditional land of the Kwanlin Dun First Nation.

    The tournament's history is marked by growth and resilience. The 2019 event set a new record for the number of teams competing. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 tournament was cancelled. The tournament bounced back, with over 45 teams participating in the 2022 Yukon Native Hockey Tournament, showcasing its enduring appeal.

    Tournament Divisions

    The inclusive structure of the tournament allows a wide range of players to participate:

    • A Division: Features top-tier teams, demonstrating high-level skills and intense competition.
    • B Division: A blend of experienced and developing teams, promoting competitive balance.
    • C Division: Often includes newcomers to the sport or those playing for recreational purposes.
    • Women’s Division: A vital addition, highlighting the growing involvement of women in hockey.
    • Old-Timers Division: For seasoned players, merging experience with a passion for the game.
    • Youth Division: Concentrates on young players, fostering the future stars of hockey.
    • Jamboree Divisions (A & B): Catered to the youngest players, encouraging a fun and educational atmosphere.

    Teams Participating in the Tournament

    The YFNHA Tournament welcomes a vibrant mix of teams, showcasing the diversity of native hockey players:
    • Yambi Knights, 1016 Royals, Kaska Grizzlies: Renowned for their competitive spirit and skillful play.
    • Arctic Backhoe Warriors, Tahltan Bear Dogz, Inuvik Ice Bears: Consistently delivering remarkable performances and sportsmanship.
    • Nisutlin Knights, Blueberry Weekend Warriors, Kaska Warriors: Each team brings unique strategies and enthusiasm to the ice.
    • Gwich’in Warriors, Tombstone Avalanche, Saw-Tooth Predators: Reflect the diverse cultural representation in the tournament.

    Sponsors and Partnerships

    The tournament continually attracts support from sponsors like Victoria Gold Corporation and Kilrich Industries, significant contributors to the Whitehorse building materials industry. These partnerships underscore the community and corporate backing the tournament receives, highlighting its importance in Yukon’s sports calendar.

    Recent Developments

    The 44th Annual Kilrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament recently featured teams like Nighthawks Hockey, Outlaws Hockey, and Arctic Backhoe Warriors. The introduction of new divisions, including the Women’s Division, Old-Timers, and Youth, signifies the tournament’s evolution to accommodate diverse age groups and skill levels. Teams representing KDFN (Kwanlin Dün First Nation), CAFN (Champagne and Aishihik First Nations), and GHL CA add richness to the competition.

    The Association’s Impact Beyond Hockey

    The YFNHA goes beyond organizing the annual Whitehorse hockey tournament. It sponsors teams and facilitates participation in First Nation Hockey Tournaments across and outside Yukon. This effort promotes hockey in various regions and communities, including Dease Lake First Nation and the Deline First Nation.

    In collaboration with Klondike Business Solutions, the Association offers skill development camps for all player levels. These camps focus on more than just hockey skills, emphasizing community ties, leadership, and personal development.

    “Learning to Lead” Hockey Camp

    The “Learning to Lead” Hockey Camp, scheduled for July 2024 in Whitehorse, exemplifies the YFNHA’s commitment to youth development. Catering to young enthusiasts aged 5 to 17, the camp includes on-ice and off-ice sessions, swimming, lacrosse, and mentoring by guest speakers and youth leaders. This holistic approach nurtures athletic skills, teamwork, leadership, and healthy living, encapsulating the spirit of the Yukon First Nations in fostering hockey talent.