Kenora Catholic District School Board

“It’s really cool seeing something that I created come to life on a real hockey stick, and I can’t wait to see it be displayed at Western Regionals,” said Davea, Grade 9.

“It’s a really cool experience to do something new and get different opportunities to share our work in the community,” added Katie, Grade 9.

“I really enjoyed the process of coming up with the design, and having mine chosen was really rewarding and exciting. It’s been a fun experience,” shared Caleb, Grade 11.

Our Grade 9 and Grade 11 art students are making a meaningful mark in our community as they take part in the Hockey Blade Art Contest ahead of the U18AAA Thistles Western Regionals, happening April 3–6, 2025.

The students are creating painted hockey blades to be presented to the “players of the game” throughout the tournament. Each piece is themed around Indigenous culture, winter, hockey, or the natural beauty of Lake of the Woods — tying local identity into every brushstroke.

This hands-on project gives students a chance to blend creativity with community spirit — and they’re excited to share their work on a bigger stage:

In addition to having their art featured, selected student artists will receive a full tournament pass, be recognized at the opening ceremony, and have their work featured in the official event program.

We’re proud of our student artists for using their talent to celebrate community, culture, and sport — and we can’t wait to see their work shine at the Western Regionals!