LIIDLII KUE/FORT SIMPSON - The achievements of individuals, teams and organizations from Fort Simpson in many different areas, but particularly hockey, were celebrated on Jan. 20.

Ryder Hardisty, a Rugrats Hockey player, skates after one of the pucks during the team's exhibition game. - Roxanna Thompson/NNSL photo

Approximately 200 people attended the event that branded Fort Simpson as the Village of Champions. The celebration was envisioned as a way to recognize the community's achievements, said Chris Hewitt, who developed the idea.

The evening started with a community feast followed by a ceremony in the arena. Fifteen people who've been involved in the development of hockey in the village were called onto the ice to receive certificates. More certificates will be mailed to former residents who supported hockey, Hewitt said.

Special attention was given to Owen Rowe who won the RBC Hockey Leaders award last year. Rowe was presented with the $10,000 that came with the award, which he's donated to minor hockey in the village.

RBC donated an additional $1,500 to minor hockey while the Northern Store gave $1,000. An exhibition game by members of the Rugrats Hockey program capped off the ceremony.

"I think the Village of Champions creates a little bit of pride in the community and some identity," Hewitt said.

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