Taku River Tlingit First Nation Unveils New Outdoor Rink

The Taku River Tlingit First Nation officially opened a new outdoor rink in Atlin, British Columbia, on October 20, 2023. The ceremony featured NHL Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier, who expressed his pride in participating in the event. This facility, described as the “first of its kind,” boasts a covered natural ice surface designed for winter skating and hockey. During the summer months, the area will serve as a venue for basketball, baseball, and community gatherings, including traditional potlatches.

Community Celebration with a Hockey Legend

Trottier, who won four Stanley Cups during his illustrious career, highlighted the significance of the rink for local youth. He stated, “It brings me back to my First Nations roots, music, celebration, nature, family, sports, all these things that are in our blood.” He first visited the youth in the community last year, making his return for the grand opening particularly meaningful.

During the opening festivities, community members had their first chance to skate on the rink. Keith Carlick, a Taku River Tlingit citizen, brought his own skates and took to the ice for the first time in three decades. “I wish we had this when we were kids,” he remarked, reflecting on the importance of the new facility for younger generations.

Opportunities for Youth and Community Connection

The outdoor rink is expected to provide numerous opportunities for Taku River Tlingit youth to engage in both on-ice and off-ice sports right in their own community. Marilyn Bowie, the Wolf director of the Taku River First Nation, emphasized the positive impact of the facility, stating, “It will give a lot of our community an opportunity to start doing more activities, especially our youth.” She expressed hope that local players might one day join teams in the Native Hockey Tournament in the Yukon.

Community member Vivian Mahoney also celebrated the new space, noting its potential to unite residents of all ages. “I love it because you look out on the skating rink and there’s every generation there,” she said. “Bringing the people together, no matter what age you are, is something we always worked on.”

Funded through Jordan’s Principle, the new rink not only enhances recreational opportunities but also fosters community spirit and connection among the Taku River Tlingit people. The facility stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural heritage of the First Nation, providing a space for celebration and shared experiences for years to come.