Dawson Creek’s bid for the 2016 International Ice Hockey Federation U18 Women’s World Hockey Championship has received a major boost with a commitment of $60,000 from the Government of British Columbia should the bid be successful.

The City of Dawson Creek has been shortlisted for the event by Hockey Canada.

The International Ice Hockey Federation U-18 Women’s World Hockey Championship is an eight-team, 22-game tournament that will take place over eight days in January 2016. The event would provide an economic boost for the region as it typically attracts athletes, coaches, officials, fans and supporters from out of town and out of province.

Hockey Canada’s final selection of the host city is expected to be made in late April 2014.

Quotes:

Coralee Oakes, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development ─

“The IIHF U18 Women’s Worlds will provide a lift to the local economy and will serve as a beacon of inspiration for young hockey players in B.C. This event represents a wonderful opportunity to showcase Dawson Creek to the international sport community and for northern hockey fans to experience high level, exciting competition.”

Mike Bernier, MLA, Peace River South ─

“The City of Dawson Creek and the entire South Peace are very excited to have been shortlisted by Hockey Canada for the chance to host the IIHF U18 Women’s Worlds Championships. This is an incredible opportunity for our region to host some of the best hockey talent and provide Northern British Columbia the chance to display our volunteer and community spirit worldwide.”

Ryan MacIvor, bid committee chair ─

“This unique event has been held in Canada only once before; to have a northern rural community like Dawson Creek have this opportunity and hold this prestigious event is a great honour. The economic and social benefits stand to have a lasting legacy for Dawson Creek.”

Quick Facts:

• The IIHF Federation U18 Women’s World Hockey Championship is an annual event.
• 2016 will mark the second time the tournament has been held in Canada. The inaugural event was held in Calgary in 2008.
• The City of Dawson Creek and the Peace River Regional District have also pledged their support.
• Dawson Creek has a proven track record of hosting successful events, including the 2012 Hockey Canada National Women’s U18 Championship, 2012 Swiss Chalet Men’s National Curling Finals, 2010 Grey Power Player Curling Championships, and the 2009 Hockey Canada National Women’s team centralization camp.

Learn More:

Hockey Canada: http://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/Home

Media Contacts:

Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 888-1462