Which teams have the loudest fans?

IRC All Native Hockey Tournament

“It was hard!” laughed Donald Hendrick, almost shouting so he can be heard above the noise of the 400 strong crowd at the opening of the IRC All Native Hockey Tournament (Feb 16th to 19 th) . He was telling us about playing as a member of Old Dogs versus Young Blood the day before, and these team names should give some indication that a sense of humor takes precedence over winning.

Donald is also the organizer of this year’s tournament. “The cup has been going on for 18 years, IRC sponsors the ice time and the trophy, and teams find their own sponsor. Last year the winner was sponsored by Northwind, which is also sponsoring Old Dogs this year.” No wonder the Old Dogs found the game challenging, for B Division, Young Bloods ended up as the champion! Aklavik Ice Hawks placed second and Fort Macpherson Flames placed third. The champion for A division this year is TUK EGT, Northwind placed second and East Three Rebels were third.

“It’s the only major tournament of the year for the Inuvik region, and everybody tries to make a team to come from surrounding communities. The smaller communities make teams easily, as they too have a lot of players and ice rinks. The players are responsible for paying for their own equipment,” said Donald. “The game is about winning to some extent, but just to play is the main thing.”

The teams are in good spirits and it is exciting to be there at the opening, Roy Ipana was the MC, and Nellie Cournoyea thanked the audience, which comprised “people from all over the ISR, for coming out every year to encourage people to continue to play hockey and for inspiring them to show good sportsmanship.” Doris Rogers sang O Canada so it filled the stadium, and the momentum began building when players from Northwind and Paulatuk started beating their sticks against the ice, lined up on either side of the rink.

The turnout was great all weekend long. Fans brought along pots and pans and noisemakers to cheer for their teams. TUK EGT and Young Bloods had the loudest fans! Many of the fans exchanged expert analysis about the development of the game. Frank Wolki from Paulatuk said mid-game, “The game was awesome. I think Northwind should pick up the pace, get more shots,” and Desmond Ruben added, “The game is pretty exciting. Even though it’s held in Inuvik, Tuk is giving them a pretty good run at their game. Maybe during the periods things will change.” Chris Ruben told us it would be great if the tournament had girls play too. “They have better options than men for hockey, there is a lot less hitting and a lot more play than in the men’s games. In Men’s games, there’s a lot of close checking, there’s a lot more scoring in women’s games.” For aunt Vera Ovayuak, it was all about supporting her nephews. “I have some nephews playing in this game, some from Inuvik, Aklavik and Paulatuk, so I enjoy watching them. This is the 1st time I am here for the whole tournament. My nephew is the captain of the Young Blood. I’ll do anything to support them to play, it keeps them out of trouble!”

A new component was added this year, the Skills Competition. About 15 people participated; William Aleekuk was the fastest skater while Ronnie Kaye won as the most accurate shooter.

The MVP (Most Valuable Player) for A division was Erwin Elias, and for B division, Deaner Smith. Best Goalie for A division was Ivan Gloadon, and B division, Bryan Mitchell. Top Scorer was Max Kotokak for A division, and Vernon Smith for B division.

Donald said, “Now that the tournament is over I feel good, everyone had a great time both watching and playing!”