Volunteer registration: TBD
For Sponsorship Opportunities contact: Joel Tayler jtaylor@therecc.ca


December 17th, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Central Nova Scotia Sports & Entertainment is excited to announce the hosting of Hockey Canada’s 2025 U17 World Hockey Challenge at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre October 31st- November 8th.

Truro, Nova Scotia – Central Nova Scotia Sports & Entertainment staff and volunteers, including Honorary Chairman, Chief Bob Gloade of Millbrook First Nation is pleased to work with an outstanding group that will represent and direct the tournament as host committee members. In the weeks ahead, registration for tournament volunteers and position leads will open as organizers expect to engage approximately 150+ volunteers to help support a successful 2025 U17 World Challenge.

The Impact on Our Community will be incredible:
The 2025 U17 World Challenge is projected to bring substantial financial benefits to local establishments, including accommodations, dining, and retail outlets. Thousands of visitors will provide a vital boost to the area's economy, with an estimated impact of $4 to $5 million dollars.

The tournament will feature the World’s best U17 players and inspire a deep sense of Canadian pride throughout the community, showcasing our national colors while uniting Canadians from all walks of life to celebrate inclusivity and build lasting social bonds.

This event will position Truro, Nova Scotia as a top-tier destination for sporting events, drawing in new tourists and enhancing our region's reputation for exceptional sports tourism.
Hosting the tournament advances hockey development in the region, offering local players valuable opportunities to engage with the event and highlighting the best of both Canadian and international hockey.

What Fans Can Look Forward To:
Spectators will enjoy a showcase of the world's finest young hockey talent, with displays of skill, speed, and determination on the ice.
In addition, fans will experience unique cultural perspectives and traditions of the participating teams, adding an extra layer of excitement and fascination to the event. Over a two-week period the community will create a festive atmosphere with activities, and entertainment, available for fans of all ages.

Surrounded by the energy and enthusiasm of our community still reeling after Team Canada’s Gold Medal victories at the 2022 World Junior Championship in Halifax and the 2023 World Junior A Challenge played in Truro, Hockey Canada will look for the hat-trick and seize this golden opportunity. The region will once again come together to celebrate the spirit of hockey and the thrill of competition.
2025 U17 World Challenge celebrates the extraordinary talent of young players globally, bringing together national and regional teams to compete with pride and passion for the championship. Competing teams in the 2025 U17 World Challenge are: Team Czechia, Team Finland, Team Sweden, Team USA, Team Canada Red Team Canada White.

Throughout the event, fans will get a glimpse of future NHL superstars. Many hockey legends, such as Joe Sakic, Pavel Bure, and Jeremy Roenick, as well as current stars like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews, have graced this tournament in past years.

Beyond being a prestigious platform for rising hockey talent, the 2025 U17 World Challenge plays a crucial role in benefiting local and national communities through tourism, economic growth, and regional engagement.
Bringing the 2025 U17 World Challenge to the region creates a surge in visitors, athletes, and their families, boosting local businesses like hotels, restaurants, and attractions. This event draws hockey enthusiasts nationally and internationally, while extensive media coverage, including live TSN broadcasts, elevates our tourism appeal.

The tournament’s economic benefits extend beyond tourism, with increased revenue for local businesses and ripple effects that stimulate job growth and strengthen community services. Events like this often inject $4 to $5 million into regional economies.

Direct spending by fans and participants on accommodations, meals, and transportation creates a ripple effect, stimulating local job growth and reinforcing our community services.The event provides local businesses with unparalleled opportunities to promote their offerings. Sponsorships, partnerships, and vendor spaces allow businesses to reach new audiences and strengthen relationships with visiting families.

This can foster a supportive business environment, encouraging collaboration among local enterprises and helping them to build lasting relationships with families visiting for the tournament.
Engaging with the local community is a top priority for the 2025 U17 World Challenge involving schools, minor hockey programs, and other local organizations in fostering participation and spreading excitement about the event
By building partnerships with local businesses, schools, and community organizations, we can broaden the event's influence and significance. These collaborations could involve shared marketing efforts, local sponsorships, and events that honor the spirit of hockey while celebrating local culture and fostering strong community connections.

The 2025 U17 World Challenge offers a valuable opportunity not only for the young athletes participating but also for the communities hosting the event. By boosting tourism, driving economic growth, and encouraging collaboration, the tournament highlights the role of sports in strengthening communities and promoting cultural exchange.

The shared experiences of athletes, fans, and families will leave a lasting legacy, reinforcing the region’s rich hockey tradition and fostering strong community connections for years to come. As the host community, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience. Mark your calendars for October 31st- November 8th 2025 and get ready to cheer on the best young hockey players from around the world. We can't wait to welcome the world to the Truro area for the 2025 U17 World Challenge.

Quotes:
"As Premier of Nova Scotia, I am proud to support the 2025 U17 World Challenge, an event that will showcase the talent, dedication, and sportsmanship of young athletes from around the world. This event is not only an exciting opportunity for hockey fans, but also an important moment for our province, as it highlights our vibrant sports culture, strengthens our economy, and fosters a sense of unity and pride among Nova Scotians. We look forward to welcoming visitors, athletes, and families to experience the very best of our hospitality and community spirit."
– The Honorable Tim Houston, Premier of Nova Scotia

"Hockey Canada is thrilled to return to Truro for the 2025 U17 World Challenge. This community has a long and proud history of hosting exceptional hockey events, and we have complete trust in their ability to deliver a memorable experience for athletes, coaches, and fans alike. Truro’s passion for the game and its commitment to the development of young players make it the perfect setting for this prestigious tournament. We look forward to working together once again to showcase the very best of hockey and the power of community."
– Darren Cossar, Senior VP Member Engagement, Hockey Canada

"As a proud member of Millbrook First Nation, it is an honor to serve as the honorary Chairman of the 2025 U17 World Challenge. This event brings together young athletes from across the globe to showcase their talent, dedication, and spirit of unity. We are excited to welcome teams, fans, and visitors to our community, where the values of respect, teamwork, and perseverance are at the heart of both the game and our people. Together, we celebrate the strength of sport and the power of cultural connection."
– Chief Bob Gloade, Millbrook First Nation

"At Central Nova Scotia Sports & Entertainment, we are proud to lead the way in event tourism, bringing world-class sporting events and unforgettable experiences to our rural region. By showcasing our community's unique culture, hospitality, and passion for sports, we not only enhance our local economy but also create lasting memories for residents and visitors from around the world. Our commitment to excellence in hosting events, like the 2025 U17 World Challenge, is a testament to the power of sport to unite, inspire, and elevate our region."
– Matt Moore, CEO, Central Nova Scotia Sports & Entertainment

"As the President of the Halifax Mooseheads, it is a privilege to form a partnership that celebrates the passion and energy of youth hockey. The 2025 U17 World Challenge offers a unique opportunity to showcase the incredible talent and dedication of young athletes, while highlighting our Province’s rich hockey tradition. We are excited to welcome teams and fans to Truro, where we can come together in a central location to celebrate the game, foster new connections, and inspire the next generation of players."
– Brian Urquhart, President, Halifax Mooseheads

Media Contact:
Mike Smith
Email: msmith@therecc.ca

Volunteer Opportunities:
Heather Fraser
Email: hfraser@therecc.ca

Partnership Opportunities:
Joel Taylor
Email: jtaylor@therecc.ca
For more information about the Rath Eastlink Community Centre and its upcoming events, please visit www.therecc.ca and follow us on facebook @ratheastlinkcc

About Central Nova Scotia Sport & Entertainment:
Central Nova Scotia Sports and Entertainment has taken on the role as the exclusive management company appointed to enhance live entertainment initiatives at both the Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition Complex and Rath Eastlink Community Centre. This partnership marks an exciting chapter for both organizations and promises a bright future for the Central Nova Scotia region.

About the Rath Eastlink Community Centre:
The Rath Eastlink Community Centre (RECC) stands as a beacon of sports and community excellence in Truro, Nova Scotia. With its modern amenities and versatile spaces, the RECC has become a hub for various events and activities that bring people together. From sporting events to concerts, trade shows to community gatherings, the RECC caters to a wide array of interests, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie among its visitors. Equipped with an NHL size ice pad and room for 2500+ spectators, the RECC has become a cherished destination for hockey enthusiasts and athletes alike. Beyond sports, the facility offers a well-equipped fitness center, a walking track, climbing wall, aquatics centre and various multi-purpose rooms, ensuring there's something for everyone within its walls. No stranger to major event attraction and execution. The Rath Eastlink Community Centre has recently hosted a slew of free events as part of its 10th anniversary
celebrations, and as a way to give back to front line workers who supported our community throughout the covid-19 pandemic. Since the pandemic the RECC has come back stronger than ever to host events such as:

• Christmas in Space 2024
• Sayer Brown 2024
• 50th Annual Provincial Volunteer Awards 2024
• Brett Kissel 2024
• Ice Cube 2024
• Stars on Ice 2023
• World Jr A Challenge 2023
• Kip Moore: 2023
• Brett Kissel 2023 *RECC 10th Anniversary Special*
• April Wine 2023 *RECC 10th Anniversary Special*
• NHL Alumni vs Local Leaders Hockey Game 2023 *RECC 10th Anniversary
• Special*
• Holiday Dreams: A Spectacular Holiday Cirque 2023 *RECC 10th Anniversary
• Special*
• IIHF World Juniors - Pre-competition Game 2023
• Stars on Ice: 2022
• PWHPA Secret Dream Gap Tour: 2022
• Kim Mitchell: 2022
• Dallas Smith: 2022