Alumni in the Community: From Pride Cup to Délı̨nę, NWT
Community connection remains at the heart of everything the Vancouver Canucks Alumni represent. This past quarter, that commitment was on full display through meaningful involvement in both the NHL Unites Pride Cup and a truly special experience in Délı̨nę, Northwest Territories.
A highlight closer to home was our participation in the NHL Unites Pride Cup, where Canucks Alumni took part in support of inclusion and belonging within the game. Alumni coaches Dave Babych and Jyrki Lumme were behind the bench, while Dave Tomlinson, Brian Richardson, Bill Ranford, and Corey Hirsch took to the ice, helping to create a supportive environment for all participants. It was a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the LGBTQ+ hockey community while reinforcing the message that hockey is for everyone.
That same spirit of connection extended far beyond the Lower Mainland with a remarkable visit to Délı̨nę, Northwest Territories. The event, organized by the local First Nations community and Chief Danny Gaudet, marked the 200th anniversary of what is widely recognized as the birthplace of hockey in Délı̨nę, located along the shores of Great Bear Lake. The celebration was deeply rooted in culture, history, and community pride, bringing together residents from Délı̨nę and Yellowknife, along with a dedicated organizing team led in part by Dave Babych, his son Cal and local leaders.
The weekend featured several unforgettable moments, including a banquet and dinner in Yellowknife with live performances by Tom Cochrane, Chad Brownlee, and Aaron Pritchett. The highlight was an outdoor game on Great Bear Lake in Délı̨nę, where Alumni joined NHL players in a truly unique setting that reflected the game’s origins. Cultural activities throughout the weekend provided an opportunity for meaningful exchange, allowing Alumni Members to experience and celebrate the region’s traditions and history.
Canucks Alumni in attendance included Dave Babych, Cliff Ronning, Bill Ranford, and Martin Gelinas, alongside Aaron Pritchett and Chad Brownlee. The visit also built on an existing relationship with the Délı̨nę community, which began during a previous Alumni trip in March 2024, further strengthening ties and reinforcing a shared appreciation for hockey’s roots.
Experiences like Délı̨nę and the NHL Unites Pride Cup reinforce the importance of partnership and collaboration, while also highlighting the unique role Alumni play in connecting directly with players, families, and fans. By working alongside community leaders, organizations, and local groups, and through simple but meaningful interactions, whether offering encouragement on the bench, sharing conversations off the ice, or just being present, these moments help foster a true sense of belonging and showcase the positive impact hockey can have within the community.
We remain committed to expanding our presence in communities both near and far, continuing to celebrate the game of hockey while supporting causes that bring people together.