Boissevain-Morton Head of Council Judy Swanson understood how important it is to have a large group of people come to visit the community for the first time in two years.
“This is an exciting opportunity for our local hockey club and for our entire community,” Swanson stated. “Hosting this provincial tournament is putting Boissevain on the map for our recreation and sports, and this is our opportunity to showcase everything that makes Boissevain special—including our local businesses, amenities and attractions, and our amazing people.”
Director of Boissevain Parks and Recreation Sam Dyck agreed.
“To be hosting a provincial tournament is a special opportunity in the world of minor hockey as it is not an opportunity that comes along too often,” Dyck said. “Our department is very excited about this news and we are looking forward to working with the host committee to assist with this big event.”
Kara Paradis of Boissevain Minor Hockey said they found out they would be able to host provincials about a month ago.
“The U11 Host Committee put a great deal of work into securing this opportunity and we have been very busy preparing behind the scenes already. We knew there was a possibility that the tournament might be cancelled for another year, but remained optimistic. We were thrilled to learn that the tournament would be going ahead because it is such an exciting event that celebrates some of the best hockey in Manitoba. It is also a wonderful opportunity to showcase all that our community has to offer. With the recent change in public health orders, we are now working quickly to put our plans into motion,” Paradis stated.
 Other provincials are being hosted in communities in the area. Deloraine will be hosting seven teams for the Rural Female U11 from February 25-27. To the west, Melita will be the site for the U15 A Female Provincials from February 26-27. Later on, action will shift eastward along Highway 3, as Killarney will host the U13 Rural B Provincials from March 11-13.
These provincial tournaments bring players, families and fans to local communities, helping their economies. Although there has been loosening of restrictions, masking, social distancing and proof of vaccinations are still a part of attending hockey arenas and restaurants in the province, so all participants and fans are expected to check restrictions at the door and respect them. This is particularly true as there might be some changes as time goes on. In Boissevain, they will be scanning for vaccinations from ages 12-18. The arena will be able to accommodate half of its regular capacity.
The Boissevain host committee, chaired by Lauree Latimer and Kristen Dales are in the process of alerting local restaurants in advance and the municipality is helping them secure dining options. There have also been discussions of a pancake breakfast on March 5 as this enhances these events.
In Boissevain, they are looking for community assistance in terms of sponsorship, in-kind donations and volunteers. Anyone interested can contact Susan Jackson at 204-215-0465 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Paradis said the committee is looking forward to the event.
“The kids are very happy to be playing hockey again and spending time with their friends on and off the ice. Having the ability to participate in activities and sports like hockey is so important to our children’s physical and mental well-being. We are very proud of our U11 team as they have been playing hard all season and will be strong contenders in this tournament.”

by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff