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Up to $1.1 million to support the 2022 Memorial Cup in Saint John

Press Release

29 April 2022

SAINT JOHN (GNB) – The provincial government is providing up to $1.1 million to support the host committee of the 2022 Memorial Cup in Saint John from June 20 to 29.

The Memorial Cup is the national championship of the Canadian Hockey League, a consortium of three major junior leagues operating in Canada and parts of the United States.

“Hosting this nine-day event will be a great boost to the economy and the tourism season,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gary Crossman, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation. “As a hockey fan, I can already see the momentum building in the port city and across the province for this exciting tournament. When June 20 arrives, we will be ready to host hockey fans from across the country.”

Based on past tournaments, it is estimated that the event will generate between $8 million and $10 million in economic activity.

“We look forward to being the centre of attention when the Memorial Cup is held here in our province,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace. “Hosting one of the most prestigious hockey championships is a tremendous opportunity to invite the players’ family and friends to New Brunswick. Once people experience all we have to offer, I am sure they will want to return or even come here to live.”

Saint John’s winning bid to host the Memorial Cup emphasized the province’s rich history of players from minority groups who enjoyed successful hockey careers, including Fredericton’s Willie O’Ree, who broke the colour barrier in the National Hockey League, and Everett Sanipass, from Elsipogtog First Nation, who played with the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks and Quebec Nordiques.

“New Brunswick has a proud hockey history, and the addition of events around the Memorial Cup to celebrate diversity and inclusion is a wonderful way to say that hockey is for everyone,” said Aboriginal Affairs Minister Arlene Dunn. “We look forward to celebrating that diversity and inclusion during the annual showcase event for junior hockey in Canada, right here in Saint John.”

Provincial funding is being provided through the Regional Development Corporation’s Community Development Fund. The event is being hosted by the Saint John Sea Dogs.

“The Memorial Cup will be an exceptional event for our province and, in addition to the positive financial impact, it will create memories that will last a lifetime,” said Mark-Anthony Ashfield, chair of the Host Organizing Committee. “We are grateful for the partnership and support we have received from the province in making this dream become a reality.”

Media Contact(s)

Mary-Anne Hurley-Corbyn, communications, Regional Development Corporation, 506-429-2624.

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