Nak’azdli Whut’en community’s 10th anniversary Winter Classic
Published 10:45 am Monday, January 19, 2026
The Caribou Cougars U18 AAA hockey team took center stage at the heartwarming Winter Classic this weekend, celebrating the 10th anniversary and final year of the event in the Nak’azdli Whut’en community. This year’s festivities paid tribute to the partnerships and community spirit that have been the backbone of the Winter Classic’s success.
On Friday, the Cougars’ leadership brought warmth and inspiration to David Hoy and Nak’albun Elementary Schools, sparking dreams in the young hearts present. The team expressed their dedication to nurturing the aspirations of future athletes.
The evening unfolded with a game between The Northern Capitals and the Greater Vancouver Comets, where young locals were invited onto the ice. Jillian Illerbrun, whose daughter participated, shared a touching moment: “Serabella got to do the prep talk with the team before going out, they all cheered once they introduced her, which totally blew her mind with excitement. Serabella looked up to all the ladies out there with pure love and joy in her eyes and heart.” These experiences are where young dreams take root. She added, “A heartfelt thank you to the Vancouver Comets for embracing Serabella and giving her one of the best experiences of her life, and to Carla Hentis for making it happen for the four U7 girls.”
Saturday night was alive with energy as the Caribou Cougars claimed a 4-2 victory against the Fraser Valley Thunderbirds. The next morning, they continued their winning streak with a 9-2 triumph at the Fort Forum.
The weekend was a heartfelt celebration of community and dreams, offering young hockey enthusiasts invaluable memories and inspiration. The cold weather was a perfect companion, ensuring the outdoor rink was in prime condition for this unforgettable event.