Peninsula Panthers reach out to First Nation youth with free event, game at Tsawout gym today

MARIO ANNICCHIARICO / TIMES COLONIST
NOVEMBER 13, 2013 10:09 pm

The Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League team is joining forces with the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP and Central Saanich Police for their first annual ball hockey challenge today at 6 p.m. at Tsawout First Nation gymnasium, where about 300 people are expected.

Team governor Pete Zubersky will present a framed Panthers game jersey to the Tsawout First Nation and all First Nation youth in attendance will be admitted to the Panthers game on Friday against the Nanaimo Buccaneers at no charge.

The hockey organization will also talk to youth about taking advantage of opportunities.

“The idea is to show the First Nation youth that there are opportunities out there and you can go chase your dreams,” Zubersky said.

“That’s what the discussion will surround on Thursday and, again, before the game on Friday.”

The idea was developed by Zubersky and Cpl. Pat Bryant of Central Saanich police.

A Vernon Fiddler Dallas Stars jersey, which former Panthers and current Stars Jordie and Jamie Benn helped acquire, will be given away tonight at the gym through a draw.

Fiddler is Metis and one of about 10 First Nation people to currently be playing in the National Hockey League.

A number of ceremonies will honour First Nation youth prior to Friday’s game at Panorama Recreation Centre. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m.

The Panthers are currently 10-8-2-1 and sit second in the South Division of the VIJHL. They are led offensively by Connor Logan, a 17-year-old who is also of First Nation descent, who will speak to fans in a pre-game ceremony that will also include B.C. Green Party Leader Adam Olsen.

The Panthers have also arranged bus transportation for all First Nation youth who require a ride to and from the game.

Buses will make stops at the administration offices of four reserves, starting at 6 p.m. at Tsawout and going to Tsartlip, Pauquachin and Tsaykum. Buses will take the youths back to the same stops after the game.

mannicchiarico@timescolonist.com

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