Team Red – VIP Lube & Pregame Sports Bar & Lounge
The Second Annual Lunar New Year Hockey Tournament, celebrated from February 8th to 11th, 2024, at the Scotiabank Hockey For All Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, successfully united the local community in a vibrant showcase of cultural diversity and sporting spirit. This year’s tournament, drawing in over 52 players, friends and family cheering from the stands, highlighted the rich cultural backgrounds of its participants, including those of Filipino, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and South Asian descent. The event was not just a testament to the universal appeal of hockey but also a celebration of the Lunar New Year, fostering a unique blend of cultural appreciation and athletic excellence.
The tournament was supported by a coalition of local businesses, each sponsoring a team, demonstrating strong community support for multicultural events and local sports. Team Blue was sponsored by 4L Communications and ADM Storage, showcasing their commitment to promoting sports and cultural diversity. Team Red received support from VIP Lube & Pregame Sports Bar & Lounge, underscoring the importance of local businesses in fostering community engagement. Time White was backed by GMA Income Tax Preparation & Winter’s Collision Repair, highlighting their dedication to supporting local events that bring people together. Lastly, Team Black was sponsored by Raymond S.C. Wan Architect & Young’s Ethnic Food Store, reflecting their enthusiasm for celebrating cultural diversity through sports.
The collaboration between these diverse businesses and the tournament organizers not only provided the necessary resources to make the event a success but also highlighted the community’s collective effort to promote inclusivity, diversity, and the spirit of the Lunar New Year through the beloved game of hockey. The Second Annual Lunar New Year Hockey Tournament stands as a shining example of how sports can bring together people from various backgrounds, fostering unity and understanding within the community.
Photos courtesy of Allan Chan
Winnipeg Emperors celebrating at the Jets-Penguins Lunar New Year game at Canada Life Centre. Photo by Danny Truong | Filipino Journal