By Joan Janzen
KERROBERT – Students and staff from Dodsland and Kerrobert packed the Kerrobert Composite School gym on Wednesday afternoon as they waited to hear the Hockey Saskatchewan announcement. Hockey Day in Saskatchewan 2027 will be hosted in Kerrobert, and everyone in the area is excited!
James Walker (front row, far right) looks on as Dodsland and Kerrobert students cheer at the Hockey Saskatchewan announcement on Wednesday, Oct. 28. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Justin Rechenmacher, representing the Hockey Day in Saskatchewan 2027 Host Committee, said hockey is about people, friendships, strength and communities coming together to support one another. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Students and staff took part in a game of hockey trivia before playing floor hockey. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
L-R: Kindersley Klippers Cowyn Loney, Pryce Thiessen, Cobe Perlinger, Cam Perlinger and Justus Cutler. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Students gathered for the Hockey Saskatchewan announcement. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Students, staff, and others gathered for a group photo. PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
The event is especially meaningful for the communities of Dodsland and Kerrobert. When Dodsland lost its rink in a tragic fire, Kerrobert immediately opened its doors, sharing its facilities and supporting Dodsland players and families when it was most needed. The two communities saw Hockey Day in Saskatchewan as an opportunity to work together and give back to their communities.
“Hosting this event as partners allows us to recognize the support Kerrobert showed Dodsland during a difficult time and celebrate the strong relationship that has grown between our communities,” Justin Rechenmacher said. Justin spoke as a representative of the Hockey Day in Saskatchewan 2027 Host Committee.
Four representatives from Hockey Saskatchewan were present at the ceremony to offer their congratulations: general manager Kelly McClintock, manager Joseph Laprairie, Thomas Piller from communications and Karissa Wonko from marketing.
Five Kindersley Klippers were in attendance, accompanied by coach Kyle Schneider, who delivered a message to the students.
Justin Rechenmacher concluded the presentation, saying, “We are excited to welcome visitors from across the province to showcase the hospitality, pride and hockey traditions of both Kerrobert and Dodsland.”
The afternoon wrapped up with a fun game of hockey trivia, followed by floor hockey games where students tested their skills against the Klippers and Rage players.