For the first time in the history of the Major Midget League (MML), BC Hockey, in partnership with the Cariboo Cougars, is hosting the MML Winter Classic, taking place January 17 – 20, 2019 in Fort St. James, BC. 

The Winter Classic features a regular-season matchup between the Cariboo Cougars and Vancouver North East Chiefs and includes the first-ever MML outdoor game at the Ernie Sam Memorial Arena on Nak’azdli Whut’en Territory, that has been outfitted with professional boards and regulation glass for this event.

In conjunction with the Winter Classic, BC Hockey will host several development camps for children within Fort St. James Minor Hockey Association (MHA), Burns Lake MHA and the three (3) local Indigenous bands.  The Cariboo Cougars coaching staff will run the practices which include female, Initiation, Atom, Pee Wee and Bantam divisions.  All Association coaches, assistant coaches and on-ice helpers are encouraged to attend one (1) or more of the practices.

In addition, BC Hockey and the Cougars will visit local elementary schools to promote the sport of hockey and healthy, active living.  There will also be a Hot Stove Panel featuring conversations between Fort St. James MHA coaches and executive, Nak’azdli members and Cougars players, parents and staff.

The puck drops at the MML Winter Classic between the Cariboo Cougars and Vancouver North East Chiefs on Sunday, January 20, 2019 at 2:00pm at the Ernie Sam Memorial Arena.  Their first game of the weekend takes place on Saturday, January 19, 2019 at the Fort Forum at 5:00pm.

For more information on the MML Winter Classic or the MML, please visit the MML website at www.bchockey.net/mml.