FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Truro, N.S. (November 16, 2021) – The Maritime Junior Hockey League will be holding a special week of games focused on Indigenous recognition and reconciliation, sponsored by Scotiabank. Each of the league’s twelve teams will host a game between November 24th to December 5th during the MHL’s Week of Reconciliation where specially designed jerseys will be worn.
The jerseys themselves have been created in consultation with local First Nations, taking into account their feedback and ideas. The message “Every Child Matters” will be emblazoned on the jerseys. A photo of residential school survivors is also present. All teams are colour coordinated with the same design.
“With the success and community reaction to previous special jersey activities, the Governors thought that this could be our unique way to show our support and that Every Child Matters,” says MHL President Steve Dykeman.
Also of help in planning has been former NHLer Everett Sanipass, who was born in the Elsipogtog First Nation. Sanipass was the first New Brunswicker of First Nations heritage to play in the National Hockey League, drafted 14th overall in 1986 by the Chicago Blackhawks. After parts of four seasons in Chicago, he was traded to the Quebec Nordiques where he would play for parts of two seasons. Sanipass was the first player of First Nations descent to be inducted into the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame. He will be present at a number of games throughout the Maritime during this special week.
The jerseys worn in these games will be auctioned off by each team at the conclusion of the schedule.