Last week, several teams arrived in Whitehorse for the first ever Women’s Division of the Yukon First Nations Hockey Association Tournament.
The Kirlrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament ran for four days from March 23-26, 2023 at the Canada Game Centre and Takhini Arena in Whitehorse, bringing the whole community together.
This annual event was cancelled in recent years because of pandemic, and everyone was beyond excited to come back this year with record number and more than 1,000 players scheduled to participate. It means 56 teams on 3 sheets of ice: kudos to the Yukon First Nations Hockey Association for figuring out the schedule!
Photography by Yukon First Nations Hockey Association
Off the ice
Photography by Brittney McGean
Photography by Talyce Henkel
Behind the scenes of this tournament is a team of dedicated organizers, officials, coaches, and players who work tirelessly to make the event a success.
Neighbourly North had the privilege to open the doors of its short-term rentals to many players and families in Whitehorse and our crew followed team Vixens in their journey, led by Selena Faith Kaytor.
Off the ice, this event speaks about the personal journey of women who put their lives on hold for a few days, disrupt the routine and reconnect around a sport they love.