As part of its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, the City of Markham, along with Destination Markham Corporation, has signed a three-year agreement to host the Little Native Hockey League (LNHL) annual tournament through 2027.
The 51st tournament, Ontario's largest youth ice hockey event for First Nations, is set for March 2025, in partnership with the First Nations of the Chippewa Tri-Council.
“We are honoured that Markham will host the next three LNHL tournaments,” said Mayor Frank Scarpitti. “After celebrating the 50th anniversary this year, we look forward to welcoming athletes and families from across Ontario and continuing to support the positive impact this tournament has on Indigenous youth.”
“With the memories of the 50th anniversary still fresh, we’re excited to host the LNHL again,” said Andrew Baldwin, executive director of Destination Markham. “Markham is ready to deliver an exceptional experience, both on and off the ice.”
LNHL president Chico Ralf called the agreement a “historic day” for the tournament.
“Our athletes and communities now have a home in Markham for the next three years. I’m excited to welcome the Chippewa Tri-Council as hosts of the 51st LNHL Tournament, and look forward to many successful events to come.”
In March 2024, Markham hosted the 50th anniversary of the LNHL, welcoming more than 3,500 Indigenous athletes and spectators, generating nearly $8 million in economic impact for the city.
Markham has long celebrated Indigenous communities, partnering with Eabametoong First Nation since 2017 to promote social, cultural, and economic collaboration, and fostering sport and fitness opportunities in First Nations communities.
Scarlett Liu is a federally funded Local Journalism Initiative reporter at Markham Economist & Sun
