Rankin Inlet (May 22/06) - Hundreds of people took to the ice in Rankin Inlet this past week to help prepare for the next round of the Kraft Hockeyville contest.

Rankin is one of 25 remaining communities vying for the Hockeyville crown and the chance to host an NHL exhibition game. <

The next segment of the show will feature profiles of the remaining communities and will air June 6 on the CBC network.

Three nights later, the final 10 will be announced.

The grand finale naming the Hockeyville winner will be aired on June 11. Hockeyville's Northern co-host Mark Day was accompanied to Rankin by 2002 Olympic gold medallist Sami Jo Small.

The Winnipeg native was as confident dealing with the throng of admirers as she is guarding goal for the womens national hockey team.

"I had such a fantastic time in Rankin. I really hope I get the opportunity to come back again," said Small.

"The people are so warm and friendly, and there's no doubting this town is crazy about hockey."

Doug McLarty is one of the committee members behind Rankin's bid for the Hockeyville crown.

He said the excitement is starting to build as the next round draws near.

"The whole crew was really blown away by Rankin and commented on what a unique experience this was for them," said McLarty.

"And that's exactly how we want the judges and the rest of Canada to see our community - as unique."

McLarty will be travelling to Hamilton, Ont., for the next round of the show with fellow committee members Lorne Kusugak, Justin Merritt and Jackson Lindell.

Kusugak said he was extremely pleased with how the filming went in Rankin.

"A chance like this might only come along once in a lifetime, so it's important to see the community having fun and enjoying the ride," said Kusugak.

"We couldn't have asked any more from the crew who travelled here, especially Sami Jo (Small).

"The kids just loved her. She posed for photos, signed autographs and spent time with everyone who asked.

"I would encourage everyone to tune in on June 6 and cheer for Rankin Inlet to become Hockeyville."