B.C. hockey program breaks barriers for Indigenous kids [Video]

A program that started in Nanaimo five years ago that teaches Indigenous kids how to play hockey is so popular that it’s expanding.

Salish Storm is a non-profit that breaks down barriers to the expensive sport, while incorporating Indigenous teachings.

“We weren’t seeing Indigenous children in minor hockey and so we started to think about what are the barriers that might be keeping them from accessing hockey,” said Salish Storm co-founder Dayna Miles.

The program provides free hockey equipment and coaching for youth between the ages of 6 and 18. Some of the gear is thanks to a sponsorship from the NHL Players’ Association, which donated 25 full sets.

Every practice begins with drumming and cultural teaching from a knowledge keeper or elder.

“They need to learn and walk through both worlds,”—Indigenous and Western—said knowledge keeper Leanor Hampton at Frank Crane arena in Nanaimo.

Head coach Heath Dennison told CTV …