Wolves Partner with SKHC and Ngo Dwe Waanzizjik for Third Annual Indigenous Game this Friday
(Greater Sudbury, ON) – The Sudbury Wolves are proud to announce their partnership with Ngo Dwe Waanzizjik (Urban Indigenous Sacred Circle) and Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre (SKHC) for the third annual Indigenous Game, taking place this Friday when the Wolves host the North Bay Battalion. The game is set to begin at 7:05 p.m.
“We are excited to unveil the Sudbury Wolves’ Indigenous jersey, a powerful symbol of our commitment to honoring and celebrating the vibrant culture and contributions of the Indigenous community,” said Sudbury Wolves Owner Dario Zulich. “This partnership reflects our shared values of respect, unity, and the ability of sport to unite people. We are grateful for this collaboration and look forward to continuing to build meaningful connections that inspire and strengthen our community.”
“With our collective efforts towards reconciliation, we celebrate the resiliency of the Indigenous people in our community,” said SKHC Manager of Community Relations, Jordan Assinewe. “As we celebrate together on Indigenous Celebration Night, let’s cherish the bonds that connect as all, and it is our duty to celebrate the similarities and differences amongst all people for future generations. Initiatives like Indigenous Celebration Night builds trust for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities for generations to come. Demonstrating leadership on how we can work together and unite as a community is how we move forward. Collaboration and community action like Indigenous Celebration Night is a platform that is a vital for cultural reclamation.”
For the third consecutive year, the Sudbury Wolves have partnered with SKHC to celebrate local Indigenous talent. This year’s stunning Indigenous jersey has been designed by Michael Cywink, a talented artist from Whitefish River First Nation (Birch Island), with additional design support from Melanie Laquerre, SKHC’s Creative Director.
Michael’s design incorporates elements of the Woodland style, blending traditional motifs with his own artistic vision. The incorporation of orange, symbolizing hope and the strength of Indigenous peoples, aligns with the significance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the Orange Shirt Day movement. The design prominently features circles, a symbol of respect and equality which holds deep meaning in Ojibwe culture. The jersey also includes natural elements such as water, trees, and the land, reflecting the vital connection Indigenous peoples have with their environment. The shoulder patches, featuring a paw in a handprint, represent the Wolves’ commitment to supporting Indigenous communities. Additionally, feathers on the jersey symbolize truth, trust, and wisdom, while the stars in the bands are a tribute to those who did not make it home and represent Father Sky.
The jerseys will be auctioned off through an online auction during and after the game, with proceeds being donated through Play it Forward to support Indigenous youth in sports and mental wellness through Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre acting as lead and proceeds are being donated to Ngo Dwe Waanzizjik. The auction will begin Friday, January 31st and run until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7. Visit the online jersey auction HERE.
In addition, to the jerseys the Sudbury Wolves are selling t-shirts featuring this year’s Indigenous logo, with proceeds also directed to Ngo Dwe Waanzizjik. Proceeds from the Play it Forward 50/50 jackpot will also support these important initiatives. Friday’s draw is now LIVE! Show your support and get your 50/50 ticket early HERE.
Before the game, the Wolves will honor and celebrate the Indigenous culture with a pre-game ceremony and ceremonial puck drop.
Following Friday’s game, the Wolves will return to the DEN on Sunday to face the Brantford Bulldogs, with puck drop scheduled for 2:05 p.m.
Tickets for both games are available now, with a variety of package options for fans, including the Family Pack, Wolves Kids Club, and 8-Game Flex Pack. Tickets can be purchased online at chl.ca/ohl-wolves/ticket-packages or in person at the Sudbury Arena Box Office.
Don’t miss out on the action—come out and pack the DEN! Purchase your tickets today at greatersudbury.ca/tickets or at the Sudbury Arena Box Office.
ABOUT SHKAGAMIK-KWE HEALTH CENTRE
The Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre is an Aboriginal Health Access Centre that;
Is dedicated to balanced and healthy lifestyles through quality, holistic, culturally-relevant health services to the First Nations, Métis and Inuit individuals and their families in the Greater City of Sudbury and partnering First Nation Communities.
Engages in clinical, social, economic and cultural initiatives that will promote the health of all Aboriginal people.
Promotes community building through partnerships, education and advocacy.
ABOUT NGO DWE WAANZIZJIK (Urban Indigenous Sacred Circle)
Ngo Dwe Waanzizjik, meaning “We are all one,” stands at the heart of the Urban Indigenous Sacred Circle (UISC), a coalition of Indigenous-led organizations united in their commitment to nurture the well-being of the urban Indigenous community. Our foundation is built upon the sacred teachings of the Four Directions, Father Sky, Mother Earth, and the Spirit Tree, guiding us in our mission to address the holistic health needs of our people. Through advocacy, community building, and the promotion of safe, equitable access to services, we strive to create a world where every individual is free from racism and discrimination.
The UISC is dedicated to addressing the Indigenous Determinants of Health, advocating for systemic change, and empowering our community through self-determination and collective action. In unity, we voice the concerns of those unheard, fostering a space where all can flourish, supported by the strength and wisdom of our shared heritage and values.