Tumbler Ridge has been chosen as the representative for British Columbia in the latest edition of the Hockeyville competition, which has been expanded for its 20th year. In this iteration, 13 communities across Canada are each receiving $50,000 for improvements to their arenas. Furthermore, two communities will compete for the grand prize: the runner-up will be awarded $100,000 for arena upgrades, while the winner will receive $250,000 and the opportunity to host an NHL preseason game.
All 13 finalist communities will also be granted $10,000 worth of new hockey equipment. Dennis Campbell, the president of the Tumbler Ridge Minor Hockey Association and their teams, the Tumbler Ridge Raptors, expressed the significance of this achievement, especially given the recent tragic events in Tumbler Ridge. The town is still recovering from a mass shooting that took the lives of eight individuals, including 12- and 13-year-old students at the local high school.
The absence of these young individuals, such as Ezekiel Schofield and Maya Gebala, who were killed and injured in the shooting, respectively, has deeply impacted the community. Campbell highlighted the exceptional qualities of these children and the profound loss felt by their absence.
Tumbler Ridge was nominated for the Hockeyville contest by Theresa Nevills, who resides over a thousand kilometers away on Vancouver Island. She was moved to support the community after learning how the local community center, serving as a gathering space after the tragedy, played a crucial role in bringing people together during difficult times.
Campbell emphasized the need for upgrades to the arena, outlining several areas that require attention, such as additional rooms, storage spaces, a new clock, and improved lighting and sound systems. A panel of judges is currently evaluating the 13 finalists, with the announcement of the two finalists scheduled for March 21. Subsequent voting will determine the ultimate winner, set to be revealed on April 4.
Campbell shared his optimism for Tumbler Ridge’s chances in the competition, noting the close competition and the special significance of the opportunity for the town and its residents.