Wilcox, Treaty 4 Territory – On May 3rd, key figures from Kapawe’no First Nation and Athol Murray College of Notre Dame came together for an important meeting. Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow, Boh Kubrakovich-Kiniw, Superintendent of First Nations Collegiate (FNC), and Brian Thomas, FNC Athletic Director, met with Robert Krueger, Spiritual Development Coordinator and Baseball Coach, to delve into Notre Dame’s operational strategies and foundational principles.
The visit focused on the integration of academics and athletics, a defining feature of Notre Dame, especially evident in its ND Hounds hockey and sport programs for both males and females. Boh Kubrakovich-Kiniw, an alumnus parent whose daughter attended Notre Dame from 2021 to 2023 participating in AAA hockey, basketball, and male baseball under Mr. Krueger, views Notre Dame’s approach as a model for developing Buffalo Bay Academy’s future sports academy.
Dave Harazny, Director of Development & Alumni Relations at Notre Dame, played a pivotal role in facilitating this exploratory visit, ensuring effective dialogue between the academies. Draydin Cyr Indigenous Advocate, History Teacher and Wrestling Coach and Neta Monson joined us while at the Archives. The group toured the college’s archives, revealing the rich history and critical moments leading to Notre Dame’s establishment over a century ago, including the legacy of Father David Bauer and the school’s deep ties to national hockey.
The arena tour was particularly memorable, showcasing numerous championship banners and a Wall of Fame adorned with NHL legends like Curtis Joseph, Rod Brind’Amour, Jaden Schwartz and Morgan Reilly, all notable alumni. This visit offered profound insights into successful academic and athletic integration, strengthening the relationship between KFN and Notre Dame and paving the way for future collaborations to enhance the offerings at Buffalo Bay Academy.
Last modified: May 15, 2024
