During the First World War, the young men of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment were stationed in Pleasantville, St. John’s—near Signal Hill. As they prepared for the formidable challenges of combat overseas, these men found a haven in the game of hockey. The sport provided a glimmer of joy, camaraderie, and normalcy amidst the hardships of military training.
In 1917, while awaiting transport to England, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment team played key exhibition games against Canadian teams, including a memorable match in Nova Scotia. Newfoundland was still a dominion at the time, and hockey served as a bridge between this future province and Canada, uniting them in their shared love for the game.
These matches not only bonded the players but also served as vivid reminders of home and were a testament to the spirit of unity and resilience that the Regiment embodied. These qualities continue to be displayed by the men and women of the modern Royal Newfoundland Regiment.
The Royal Newfoundland Regiment is one of Canada’s oldest regiments, distinguished by its unique achievements during the First World War. In the trenches, other allies would yell, “WHO ARE YOU?” to which the Regiment would reply, “NEWFOUNDLANDERS!” This response served as a powerful signal to allies that a friend was near. This, along with their unofficial motto, “BETTER THAN THE BEST,” encapsulates a profound sense of identity and pride.
Today, the Royal Newfoundland Regiment continues to embody the legacy of valour and dedication established by those who came before them. Their service honours a storied past while continuing a tradition of service to Canada at home and abroad, in places such as the Balkans, Afghanistan and eastern Europe.
The Newfoundland Regiment hockey team embodies the core values of unity, community, and resilience upheld by the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. Through hockey, we strive not only to remember and honour this legacy but also to carry it forward, inspiring future generations to connect with the enduring spirit of Newfoundland.
