On May 26, 2024, MÁLEXEȽ Elders Randy Daniels, Jennifer Daniels, May Sam and Scott Sam blessed the land before construction crews broke ground for the Nation’s new on-reserve multi-sport mini-pitch.
Reciprocity Trusts funds supported completion of the mini pitch, which was planned and installed in partnership with Whitecaps FC. Whitecaps FC has committed under the Hope and Health movement to creating new opportunities for Indigenous youth to have safe and high-quality sports experiences that inspire hope and physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being in their own communities.
“Our vision is for Indigenous children and youth to carry themselves with pride and confidence, achieve their highest potential, and dream big.” – Hope and Health team
The Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action 87-91 address reconciliation in sports, prescribing support for Indigenous athletic development, reducing barriers to Indigenous sports participation, promotion of physical activity as a fundamental component of health and well-being, consistently funding community sports programs, and supporting the revitalization of traditional sports and games.
The Malahat Strong Mini-Pitch was unveiled to the community on August 14th, 2024 (Malahat Day), bringing together Elders, youth and families in celebration, gratitude and play. The court is the same colour as the salmon butterflied open on wire racks staked around a fire of smoldering ashen logs. After a song is sung to bless the court, kids of all ages vibrating with glee are unleashed across it – within minutes, kicking into the net with a level of determination and skill that already seems long-practiced. Parents and Elders have shared how these spaces for community gathering and recreation help build confidence in individuals’ identity as MÁLEXEȽ and connect members in healthy shared activities.
As Shannon, the Executive Director of Infrastructure and Capital Projects explained, “it’s not just recreation; it’s about mental, physical, social, and cultural health, working together as one, nautsa’mawt.” The Coast Salish principle of naut’sa mawt (“with one heart and one mind”), is also the foundational principle by which all ten Nations govern the South Island Indigenous Reciprocity Trust for shared prosperity and well-being.
“It is amazing to see the community come together in sport and to see our youth have a safe place to play and gather. We are grateful for the support of everyone who made this project happen and we raise our hands in gratitude.” – Malahat Nation Chief Gordon Harry.
Resources
https://www.whitecapsfc.com/community/mini-pitches
https://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/whitecaps-fc-celebrate-malahat-strong-mini-pitch-opening-in-malahat
https://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/vwfc-hope-health-announce-first-mini-pitches-indigenous-communities
