Toronto NAIG partners with Hamilton to host five sports


The Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games Host Society has announced a partnership with McMaster University and the City of Hamilton to create “a western hub” for the eight-day international sport and cultural event scheduled for July 16 to July 23, 2017.

Five of the 14 sport competitions will be held in the Greater Hamilton Area including:

3-D Archery (Hamilton Angling and Hunting Association)

Lacrosse (Gaylord Powless Arena and Iroquois Lacrosse Arena)

Softball (Turner Park, Hamilton)

Soccer (Ron Joyce Stadium, McMaster University)

Wrestling (Burridge Gym, McMaster University)

“The creation of a western hub for the Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games offers an exciting opportunity for celebration, collaboration and strength in unity across communities, which is the essence of the North American Indigenous Games,” said Marcia Trudeau, CEO of the Toronto 2017 NAIG Host Society.

“We look forward to working together with McMaster University, the City of Hamilton, Tourism Hamilton, and Indigenous communities to provide a high-calibre sporting and cultural experience. Additionally, we commend the City of Toronto for their outstanding leadership as the official 2017 NAIG host city. Together, we will produce a best in-class Games experience to ensure an enduring legacy for Indigenous people and the North American Indigenous Games movement.”

In addition to the sport venues, McMaster University will house more than 1,800 participants on campus with the creation of an Athletes Village, reads a press statement released Sept. 15.

The North American Indigenous Games provides youth the opportunity to showcase their athletic achievements and cultural heritage. 

More than 5,000 Indigenous youth, ages 13 to 19, from all 13 provinces and territories of Canada and 13 regions from the United States will take part in the Toronto 2017 NAIG. The Games will need an expected 2,000 volunteers.  

During the 2017 NAIG, week-long cultural festivals will feature a variety of Indigenous artists, cultural performances and nightly entertainment.