Hockey Day in Canada rolls through Victoria

Thousands of people lined Victoria’s Inner Harbour causeway to catch a glimpse of the Stanley Cup and some of the legends who played the game.

Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations members paddled into Ship Point on Saturday morning with help from former Vancouver Canucks and Stanley Cup champion Geoff Courtnall.

Saturday’s Hockey Day in Canada broadcast put Vancouver Island on a national stage, with the broadcast focusing on the Island and its deep roots to the sport and positive hockey culture.

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(Rogers/Sportsnet)

A noticeable guest on Saturday was three-time Olympian Cassie Campbell-Pascall, who is making a big impact on the sport.

Campbell-Pascall, who is a former player, broadcaster and now an executive of the newly formed Professional Women’s Hockey League was not only a star of the game but helped save it here on the Island.

The Victoria Reign Capital Region Female Minor Hockey Association nearly collapsed during the pandemic, however, Campbell-Pascall took action and guided the team towards a $15,000 grant, helping breathe new life into the league and new hope for young girls wanting to play the game.

In an emotional ceremony, the association unretired Campbell-Pascall’ number, giving another player the opportunity to wear 77.

The all-day Hockey Day in Canada broadcast spread beyond the capital on Saturday, highlight and diving into hockey stories, and human stories, from around the Island.

SEE PREVIOUS:

• Stanley Cup arrives in Victoria for Hockey Day in Canada
• Ron MacLean and Stanley Cup receive warm welcome at Songhees First Nation

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