Manitoba First Nation backing home talent over Jets in NHL playoff series

While the majority of Manitobans are hoping to see the Winnipeg Jets win their first playoff series in 2023, one Manitoba First Nation is hoping for a different outcome and is cheering for the Vegas Golden Knights.

Vegas defenceman Zach Whitecloud grew up in Sioux Valley Dakota Nation in southwestern Manitoba. His dad Tim Whitecloud is a band councillor in the community. He says he used to cheer for the Jets, but ever since his son signed with the Knights back in 2018, he has been cheering for them ever since – and yes, he will be rooting for Vegas in this series.

Vegas Golden Knight defenceman Zach Whitecloud. (Photo Courtesy: Tim Whitecloud)

“It’s a very exciting time for myself and our family and of course for our community Sioux Valley (Dakota Nation),” said Tim Whitecloud, Father of Zach Whitecloud.

“I hope for a hard-fought battle here and we will see who comes out at the end here, so it’s been very interesting.”

Chief Jennifer Bone of Sioux Valley Dakota Nation, about 260 km west of Winnipeg, says the community is excited to cheer on Zach in the playoffs.

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“The community in general are standing behind Zach and the Vegas Golden Knights. Lots of hype on social media. Our community is hosting a watch party this evening at the community hall, and again on Thursday evening just to get together, watch the game and provide some support,” said Chief Jennifer Bone, Sioux Valley Dakota Nation in Manitoba.

In May, the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports & Recreation Council will be hosting the 20th National Aboriginal Hockey Championships in Winnipeg. Director Carriera Lamoureux says Whitecloud played in the tournament before making it to the NHL and to have him on the big stage in the NHL playoffs is a big deal for First Nations communities.

“It’s super important to turn on the TV and see someone who looks just like you, so that you believe you could be that same thing and have that same ability. But what needs to come after that, is support. You need coaching; you need equipment; you need a community of belonging and connection that allows you to reach and fulfill your potential,” explained Lamoureux.

Vegas Golden Knight defenceman Zach Whitecloud with his father Tim Whitecloud. (Photo Courtesy: Tim Whitecloud)

Zach signed a three-year entry-level contract with Vegas in 2018 and signed a six-year extension with the team in 2021. Whitecloud says his son’s journey to the NHL wasn’t easy, but now he is a person many First Nations children in Manitoba look up to.

“I think it’s huge for hiM to recognize that he is a tremendous role model, held on a high pedestal. I think he is very much aware of that, and he carries himself to the best of his abilities to be that positive role model for everyone,” said Whitecloud.