Vernon supporting Falkland Kraft Hockeyville 2020 bid

Photo: Contributed

The City of Vernon is cheering on Falkand in its bid to become the next Kraft Hockeyville.

The community 30 minutes from Vernon on Highway 97 is hoping to bring home the $250,000 grand prize to put a roof over its outdoor hockey rink.

Nominations for the contest close Sunday, Feb. 9.

Falkland is looking for a final push of support from neighbouring communities to reach Top 4 and move on to the next round.

In addition to winning the title and funding, the top community also has a chance to host an NHL pre-season game.

“In 2016, the Village of Lumby won the Hockeyville title,” said Mayor Victor Cumming. “Vernon helped Lumby host a game between the Edmonton Oilers and LA Kings at Kal Tire Place. The buzz in the region was electrifying. It’s events like these that really bring people together and show what it means to have community pride.”

In order to reach Top 4, Falkland needs supporters to log into the Kraft Hockeyville site and share photos, stories and notes. Each item collects a certain number of points. Judging to reach Top 4 will be based on the content of the stories and the number of points collected.

“There is no doubt Falkland is a proud hockey community,” said Christy Poirier, Manager, Communications and Grants. “Reading the stories of their dedication to the sport, and the effort put in to building and maintaining the outdoor rink so families can play, is inspiring. The fact we can rally behind our neighbours and help their bid to build a roof is exciting.”

To learn more about Kraft Hockeyville and to support Falkland’s nomination, click here.