What began as a class project has now become a meaningful annual initiative blending sport, culture, and education.
Last season, Nolan Lee (Trail ,BC), a men's hockey student-athlete, was enrolled in an Indigenous Studies course at the University of Waterloo. One of the core challenges of the course was not just to reflect on Indigenous issues, but to act on them. Inspired by this, Nolan Lee (Trail ,BC) took the initiative to organize a hockey camp for Indigenous youth. The result was a one-day event on campus that included hockey skills sessions, academic workshops, and time spent in Indigenous spaces. That same year, Nolan Lee (Trail ,BC) graduated, leaving behind the spark of something impactful.
A third-year Science student and Assistant Captain on the men's hockey team, Liam Fedak (Oakville, ON), who was deeply involved in last year's camp, stepped up this year, and the initiative grew.
On Sunday, April 6, fifteen high school aged youth part of Chimnissing Minor Hockey, from the Beausoleil First Nation, took part in a day long experience at the University of Waterloo. The Beausoleil First Nation rests on the southern shores of Georgian Bay on Christian, Beckwith, and Hope Islands. The camp included both boys and girls, and the on-ice sessions were led by varsity men's and women's hockey players. Beyond their time on the ice, participants engaged in academic programming through a presentation by the Undergraduate Recruitment team, aimed at encouraging educational pathways and sharing what life as a university student can look like. The group also toured campus to see a number of academic and Indigenous spaces.
The camp is a collaboration between Athletics and Recreation and the Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR), jointly led by Liam Fedak (Oakville, ON), Nick Cahyono (co-op student for Indigenous Initiatives in Athletics), and Melissa Star Ireland from OIR, alongside other key contributors.
"It's incredibly moving to see this vision come to life through the dedication of our students and the collaborative spirit between Athletics and the Office of Indigenous Relations. I also want to acknowledge the generous support of the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre who also made this day happen. This was a reciprocal and enriching experience for all. We are so grateful for the opportunity to learn from them and build these lasting connections with Beausoleil First Nation." - Melissa Star Ireland, Director, Indigenous Relations
The day was about more than just hockey, it was about creating space, connection, and opportunities for Indigenous youth to see themselves reflected in post-secondary environments. It's also a meaningful example of how student-athletes can extend their impact well beyond the ice.
"This is the kind of experience that can truly leave a lasting impact," said Liam Fedak (Oakville, ON). "In my opinion it is not just about visiting a campus, but instead it provides an opportunity to see what's possible. Bringing together sport, academics, and a sense of community helps the participants picture themselves here, and I hope it plays a meaningful role in shaping their futures."
The experience left a lasting impression on everyone involved, especially the youth who were inspired by what they saw and felt. Trevor A. Reid of Beausoleil First Nation shared this sentiment: "Chi-miigwech to the University of Waterloo and Melissa Star Ireland for welcoming us with open arms! It really opened our kids' eyes to what they can accomplish and work towards in both their academic and athletic careers."
