Statement from Premier Pillai, Minister Mostyn and Minister McLean on Yukon Native Hockey Tournament

March 20,  2025

Premier Ranj Pillai, Deputy Premier and Minister Jeanie McLean, and Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn have issued the following statement:

“Today, March 20, 2025, the puck drops for the 45th annual Kilrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament, presented by Finning Canada.

“Established in 1977, this annual tournament has become a beloved event for players, friends and families from across the Yukon and beyond, who come together in the capital for a weekend of competition and reunion.

“To help make this event possible, our government is proud to invest more than $71,000 through the Community Development Fund to support the costs from this year and the next.

“This year, we’re joined by teams from British Columbia and the Northwest Territories, for a total of almost 60 teams and 1,020 players across eight divisions.

“The reach of this tournament is truly remarkable. With the arrival of so many in Whitehorse, we acknowledge the immense effort that goes into making this event a success.

“The Yukon First Nation Hockey Association has long brought us together for this tournament and for that we thank for their years of effort.

“It also takes many volunteers to run the tournament. Volunteers are truly the backbone of our sporting community and their commitment demonstrates what truly makes our sport scene so vibrant.

“We encourage everyone to take in one of the many hockey games this weekend. The energy at the Canada Games Centre and Takhini Arena is going to be electric as always.”

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

NT4