Warm Welcome For Little Band Participants

A warm welcome for the kids, parents and visitors attending the Little Bands Hockey Tournament in Dryden.
Opening ceremonies were held at the Memorial Arena yesterday with a number of dignataries making speeches.
Ontario Regional Chief Stan Beardy says this event will result in lasting memories for the participants.
Beardy says this is an experience of a lifetime and will have a real impact on their life.
He adds the tournament allows kids to showcase their skill and take part in organized hockey.
Beardy notes it is also crucial for future relations with the community and will go a long way in opening up the north.
Dryden Mayor Craig Nuttall is hoping this becomes an annual event in the community.
Nuttall says it’s a great event and notes it will have major economic spin-off’s.
Eagle Lake First Nation Chief Arnold Gardner says this event is huge for aboriginal children across the far north.
Gardner says he’s proud of the communities who are supporting their children and notes it’s a great opportunity for this area.
He notes this could be the beginning of a lasting career in hockey for some of the kids.
Wabigoon Lake First Nation Chief Ruben Cantin Sr. couldn’t stop smiling.
Cantin Sr. says watching the kids play brings back old memories and he stresses they will leave with nothing but memories.
He adds it’s great for the Dryden area and great for building relationships.
Cantin Sr. notes you can’t underestimate the power of sports and this could be the start of something special.
Some 1,000 visitors from communities across the far north are here for the week long event.
Dryden Development Corporation figures show that it could result in nearly $1-million in revenue for the city.