ATHABASCA - The U15-2 Athabasca Hawks hosted provincials from March 20-23, making their opening ceremonies on March 21 extra special with a powerful drumming circle performed by students from the Calling Lake Drum Club.
One of the players from the Hawks, Aidyn Jackson-Favel, stepped up to perform in the ceremony dressed in his full hockey gear. Alongside Aidyn, players from other U15 teams, Evan Johnson U15-3 and Jacobi Lightning U15-1 performed as well.
“The community was touched because he was one of our very own,” said Michelle Cummings, Host Chair for the U15C Provincials.
Drums are sacred amongst Indigenous communities, representing the “universal heartbeat of mother earth”. Playing a special rhythm promotes healing and realignment of the four realms of human existence.
With two Indigenous players on their roster, the Hawks felt it was important to celebrate and share this tradition during their opening ceremony.
“Everyone seemed to enjoy the drummers. We had many compliments on how well they did and how much they enjoyed them,” said Cummings.
This event was inspired by a U18 team performing a drumming circle during the 2023 provincials. This U18 event featured adult drummers, but having theirs including kids from the community seemed to make a huge impact.
“I think including the kids was extra memorable,” said Cummings. “It’s such a neat sound and to have children play for a children’s event.”
The ceremony left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance, celebrating both sport and culture in a truly unforgettable way.
