Darrell Greer
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Sep 18/02) - The biggest grape on the vine is headed for Nunavut.

The city of Iqaluit has been confirmed as the location for the live segment of the Hockey Day in Canada broadcast on Saturday, Feb. 15.

The program airs for almost the entire day in Canada, featuring minor hockey segments from a number of locations across the country and three separate hockey games involving all six Canadian NHL teams.

It's estimated close to five hours of programming will originate from Nunavut's capital during the broadcast.

Hockey Night In Canada's famous broadcasting tandem of Ron MacLean and Don "Grapes" Cherry will be in Iqaluit for the event.

Iqaluit Minor Hockey Association president Glen Higgins says local hockey organizers are already planning the day's events.

"We have two initial things we're looking at doing," says Higgins.

"We want to host a tournament that weekend and we'll also look at having a developmental clinic run at the same time."

Higgins says while minor hockey will be the focal point, he wants all levels of hockey to be represented during the broadcast.

"I'd like to see both the adult recreational hockey guys and the old-timers involved, as well as the minor hockey association.

"I'm sure, everyone who plays will want to be involved in this in one way or another."

Higgins says the fact Cherry is confirmed to be part of the broadcast is igniting an extra level of excitement surrounding the event.

"Everybody knows who Don Cherry is. A number of guys have already said they hope he puts in an appearance at the Legion for a few pops and throws a couple of octopuses around.

"It's a great thing for Nunavut. This event will provide an opportunity to put Hockey North on the map and showcase our game here to a national audience."