On November 8th to 10th, an extraordinary milestone was achieved as the inaugural Women’s Hockey Tournament took place in Thompson. Although there have been girls' hockey teams in previous years, many of them unfortunately faded out over time. However, just last year there was a powerful revival with the establishment of the U-11 girls team, followed by the formation of the U-13 girls team. This tournament not only celebrates their second consecutive year of participation but also stands as the first-ever tournament of its kind for them, showcasing their growth and commitment to the sport.
Charlene Mclvor, the dedicated Female Hockey Director, passionately expressed the importance of this event. She noted, “For the first time there has been communities that have joined us, it’s the first time for a lot of these girls who have left their Northern communities to come here. It’s been an exciting weekend for them. First time to a city, first time to Thomspon. They’ve traveled by barge by boat, crossing a lake, to get to their airport and flying for the first time” Mclvor’s words highlight the profound impact of this tournament on the young athletes’ lives.
“It truly takes a village to organize such a momentous event!” Mclvor emphasized, acknowledging the tremendous effort that went into making this tournament a reality. “Every aspect of this tournament has been made possible through the hard work and dedication of volunteers.”
The Thompson Minor Hockey Association (TMHA) played a pivotal role in ensuring that the girls made it to Thompson to compete. “The logistics involved in bringing the girls together for this tournament were immense” Stated TMHA President; Jessie Horodecki.
Mclvor echoed Horodecki’s words elaborating on the daunting task they had to endure, but ended up being so worth the frustration as these girls could now compete in their beloved sport. “Working with getting the teams from the outlining communities TMHA helped get the girls here to play and that was a HUGE undertaking. But the effort was worth it! It’s for the girls to play Hockey!”
The inaugural Women’s Hockey Tournament in Thompson not only marked a pivotal moment in the resurgence of girls' hockey in the region but also highlighted the power of community, resilience, and dedication among young athletes. The enthusiasm and spirit displayed by the participating teams underscored the importance of such events in fostering inclusivity and promoting the sport. As these remarkable young women took to the ice for the first time, they not only created unforgettable memories but also set the stage for future generations of female hockey players. The collective effort of volunteers, families, and the Thompson Minor Hockey Association exemplified how teamwork can turn a vision into reality, leaving a lasting impact on both the athletes and the communities they represent.
