After learning about the mass shooting in Tumbler Ridge, B.C., on February 10, Theresa Nevills, who resides over a thousand kilometers away on Vancouver Island, was deeply impacted. The details unfolding from the close-knit community of around 2,400 residents were surprising to her, as it was not something expected from a small town.
Despite not having any personal connections to Tumbler Ridge, the retired Royal Canadian Air Force aviation maintenance superintendent felt a strong urge to assist. She took notice of how the local community center transformed into a safe haven for residents in the aftermath of the tragedy and decided to nominate Tumbler Ridge for Kraft’s annual Hockeyville contest after realizing no one else had done so.
The community center, which accommodates the town’s arena along with various other facilities like the pool, library, and curling rink, holds significant importance for the residents. Nevills emphasized that this space served as a sanctuary where people came together to support one another during the initial days following the tragic event.
The grand prize of the Hockeyville contest offers $250,000 for arena upgrades and the opportunity to host an NHL preseason game. Recalling her experience of supporting the community of Stirling-Rawdon, Ont., which won the Hockeyville title in 2012 while she was stationed nearby in Trenton, Nevills considered this nomination as a valuable opportunity for everyone to contribute towards Tumbler Ridge’s healing process.
The nomination gained support from prominent figures such as Olympic gold medalist and Hockey Hall of Famer Hayley Wickenheiser, who shared the Tumbler Ridge campaign with her substantial social media following this week. Wickenheiser, while not available for an interview with CBC, has been actively showing solidarity with the community post-tragedy.
The deadline for Hockeyville nominations is March 1, with provincial and territorial winners set to be announced on March 14, each receiving $50,000. The grand prize winner will be revealed on April 4. Nevills expressed her belief that Tumbler Ridge, amidst its recovery from the recent tragedy, deserves to win the contest.
Whether Tumbler Ridge emerges as the victor or not, Nevills highlighted the resilience and unity exhibited by the community. She commended their ability to come together, face challenges, and grow stronger in the face of adversity.