The sitting of the 2025 Spring Legislature coincided with Kraft Hockeyville, a national contest that gives hockey-loving towns the chance to upgrade their rinks and host NHL games. I was proud to recognize Sackville’s Hockeyville committee, whose hard work landed our community a top spot once the votes were counted!
You can find recordings of both Member Statements made in their honour below:
28 February
PAUL WOZNEY « »: Kraft Hockeyville season has generated a torrent of activity in the Sackville area. This annual contest gives towns the opportunity to win $250,000 for arena upgrades and the chance to host an NHL pre-season game. I rise to recognize the Lake District Recreation Association for encouraging this outpouring of enthusiasm, in-person and online, proving without a doubt that Sackville is Kraft Hockeyville.
The team has proven its dedication to the community outside the rink, too, especially by turning its attention to the support of a Sackville family that recently suffered a devasting tragedy. In late January, they raised over $6,000 for this family. By so selflessly dedicating their energy and time to their hometown, these organizers have channelled Sackville’s pride into real tangible benefits for our community. I rise today in hopes that all present will join me in recognizing the Kraft Hockeyville committee and the Lake District Recreation Association and head online to cast a vote to support this bid.
THE SPEAKER « »: Before I recognize the next member: The member for Sackville-Cobequid tried his hardest to wear the jersey today, but we’re not allowed props, so I was mean and said no.
20 March
PAUL WOZNEY « »: Recently, I congratulated Sackville’s Kraft Hockeyville committee for a first-rate campaign founded on local pride and sincere dedication. Today I rise to report that Sackville is the only contestant in the Maritimes to make the top four.
The work isn’t done yet. The next phase of the competition gives us a short window to win over the course of a single day. Canadians will be asked to cast a vote at krafthockeyville.ca. When the voting opens on April 5th at 9:00 a.m., all of us need to be ready to jump over the boards and get on the ice.
I’m no fan of the Boston Bruins or the Florida Panthers, but even I respect that Brad Marchand, a former TASA Duck and long-time rival of the Sackville Flyers, took to Instagram to voice his support for Sackville’s bid, noting that the Sackville Arena is a special place all Nova Scotians can get behind. If even a “little ball of hate” can set aside his differences with Sackville, surely we all can too. Though it may say Sackville in our arena, a final four victory will be one all Nova Scotians can celebrate.
Please join us on April 5th in showing Canada that Sackville is a clear-cut choice as Kraft Hockeyville 2025.
