INAC team claims win in "Hockey Night in Beardy's"

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Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) defeated the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN) in the first annual Beardy's Cup hockey game on Jan. 18.

There was no official score sheet, but at the end of regulation time the score was 8-8 and the match was decided in a shoot-out. Minister Nault and three of his teammates contributed to the 12-10 victory. At a Liberal Party fundraiser in Edmonton on Jan. 25, Nault kidded AFN Grand Chief Phil Fontaine about the INAC win and told the audience that he - Nault - scored the winning goal. Many prominent Native leaders attended the fundraiser because it was held in honor of Metis Senator Thelma Chalifoux.

FSIN Chief Perry Bellegarde and Fontaine graciously accepted defeat and challenged the INAC team to a rematch next year.

Referees for this historic hockey summit were Treaty Commissioner David Arnot and Saskatchewan First Nations Sports Hall of Fame inductee Eugene Arcand, who cited the INAC team for breach of the Indian Act and delay of process.

Much of Beardy's First Nation came out to cheer on the two teams. They were dazzled by some very talented players and entertained by those who struggled to stay on their feet.

"There are a lot of issues and challenges that test the strength of our partnerships with First Nations," said INAC coach and regional director-general Roy Bird. "But hockey is one of the common bonds that bring together anyone who was raised in Saskatchewan."