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Expanding program

Darrell Greer

The organizers of the regional Kivalliq Junior Canucks hockey program are trying to double the number of teams representing the region at the 2018 Manitoba Indigenous Cultural Education Centre Tournament in Winnipeg.

The Kivalliq Junior Canucks hockey program is trying to double its numbers. Here's the team after capturing the 2017 atoms Indigenous championship in Winnipeg, Man., in March of 2017. Pictured are, from back row left, Gleason Uppahuak (manager), Kevin Kalluak (assistant coach), Ryley Komakjuak, David Clark (head coach), Gregory Wiseman, Preston Kaludjak, Nolan Nakoolak, Russell Matoo, Justin Eetuk, Hunter Kablutsiak, Douglas Pameolik Jr., Prime Paniyuk, Ben Kusugak and William Uppahuak, and front row from left, Mark Kalluak, Kadin Eetuk, Liam Tattuinee, Jimmy Ollie, Ben Tulugak, Ryan Haqpi and Rodney Nakoolak. NNSL file photo

The Kivalliq atoms squad captured the overall 2017 atoms championship.

Program organizers Gleason Uppahuak of Arviat and David Clark of Rankin Inlet are seeking funding to be able to send both a regional bantam and regional midget team to the 2018 event.

The organizers will be asking the Kivalliq Inuit Association to donate $50,000 towards the regional hockey program at its upcoming AGM to help with the costs of flights, jerseys, team apparel, hotels and bus, van or truck rentals. Players for the regional teams will be selected at the Arctic Atoms, Powerful Peewee and Polar Bear Plate (midget) tournaments. A selection event for the bantam squad has yet to be decided.