By Rosalind Russell – The Ontario Provincial Police is gearing up to show its support for the Little Native Hockey League (LNHL) Tournament, happening March 16-20, 2026, in Markham.
Chief Superintendent Gary Maracle (MAR-cail) says Ontario OPP vehicles will once again sport “Proud Supporter of the LNHL” decals with a fresh new design, leading up to and during the tournament.
He says the initiative, launched last year in partnership with the OPP Indigenous Policing Bureau, the Indigenous Police Chiefs of Ontario, and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee raises funds for First Nations youth.
Last year, decal sales raised $7,500, which was used to establish a new Ontario Police Services bursary for LNHL players who are committed to community safety and looking to pursue a career in policing.
The LNHL is Ontario’s largest annual hockey tournament for First Nations youth.
The Little Native Hockey League was founded by Earl Abotossaway, former Chief Jim McGregor, James D. Debassiage, Reverend Leonard Self, and Norman Debassiage in 1971 in Little Current on Manitoulin Island.
The inaugural tournament took place during the Christmas break in 1971 and featured 17 teams and 200 players.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Native_Hockey_League
Over the years, it expanded to dozens of teams and eventually had to be moved to the Markham area to accommodate the thousands who take it in every year,
Last year, it hosted 275 teams and approximately 3,500 players, attracting over 10,000 fans.
It’s pillars, education, citizenship, sportsmanship, and respect, align closely with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action and other reports and recommendations that aim to advance truth and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
OPP members will be at arenas throughout the tournament to cheer on athletes and show their commitment to safe, supportive communities.
Learn more at lnhl.ca.
Photo provided by OPP
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