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Yukon Native Hockey Tournament kicks off its 45th anniversary with more teams than ever before

JMB Contracting and the Paulatuk Wolverines face off on the NorthwesTel Ice at the Canada Games Centre (Photo: S. Bonell)

59 teams have come to Whitehorse to compete across 7 divisions.

The 45th Annual Kilrich Yukon Native Hockey Tournament gets underway in Whitehorse today.

In a media release earlier this week, the Yukon First Nations Hockey Association says that this year’s tournament will be the largest ever, with a record-breaking 59 teams competing across 7 divisions.

This year will also include live broadcast services from Takhini Arena through Ptarmigan Creative to allow fans across the north to stream the action in real-time.

Speaking to CHON-FM, Yukon Deputy Premier Jeanie McLean said that the tournament brings Yukoners together like only hockey can.

“Hockey in the Yukon is more than just a game,” said McLean. “It brings us together and strengthens our communities.

The opening ceremony for the Yukon Native Hockey Tournament begins at 5:30 pm on Friday at the Takhini Arena. For a full schedule of matches, visit the Yukon First Nations Hockey Association on Facebook.

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