Tumbler Ridge makes friendly wager with fellow Kraft Hockeyville finalist ahead of winner announcement

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — Both the finalists in Kraft Hockeyville have agreed to friendly competition, including a wager over the outcome.

Elected officials from Taber, Alberta and the District of Tumbler Ridge have agreed that the losing finalist in the Kraft Hockeyville competition will wear the winning one’s team jersey in a council meeting in the near future.

The annual contest showcasing community arenas sees teams compete for a prize of $250,000 and the opportunity to host an NHL pre-season game in their home venue.

The two finalists – Taber and Tumbler Ridge – issued a joint press release in anticipation of the announcement of the winner on Saturday, April 4th.

Each community has already won $50,000 toward arena upgrades by virtue of being their province’s winner earlier in March.

“This competition has brought people together across both communities, highlighting the passion, pride and connection that hockey creates far beyond the rink,” reads part of the statement, signed by Taber mayor Andrew Prokop and his Tumbler Ridge counterpart, Darryl Krakowka.

“We recognize emotions can run high during moments like this. We encourage everyone to continue supporting their community in a way that reflects the positive, welcoming spirit hockey is known for.”

Additionally, the District of Tumbler Ridge released details about a community watch party taking place starting Saturday, April 4th at the Tumbler Ridge Community Arena at 1 p.m.

The event is hosted by the district and the Tumbler Ridge Minor Hockey Association, who encourage all to put on their Tumbler Ridge Raptors hockey gear and “help fill the arena with hometown pride.”

It is free to drop in and attend the event. 

A large screen will stream CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada’s telecast, where the winning town of Kraft Hockeyville will be named during the second period intermission of Saturday night’s game. 

A crew from the program will be at the arena in the wake of the announcement, according to a Facebook post.

The event will include a community barbecue, games and activities for children, and more. 

The event will kick off at 1 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, April 4th at the Tumbler Ridge Community Centre Arena on 340 Front Street. 

Voting for the finalists will take place starting on Friday, April 3rd at 6 a.m. and wrap up the following day at 2 p.m.

To vote or for more details, visit Kraft Hockeyville’s website.