Government of Canada support helps UNB host University Cup Hockey Tournament

FREDERICTON, NB – February 23, 2011 – The University of New Brunswick in Fredericton will proudly host the University Cup hockey championships in March 2011 and 2012, thanks in part to investments from the Government of Canada.

This week-long tournament will feature six of the best men’s university hockey teams from across the country. Taking part in today’s announcement were the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway; and Eddy Campbell, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of New Brunswick.

“Our Government is proud to support the University of New Brunswick in hosting this national sporting event,” said Minister Ashfield. “By helping to promote the Fredericton region as a sport tourism destination, we are creating significant economic opportunities for the future of the entire area.”

“The ongoing support we receive from the Government of Canada is absolutely invaluable,” said Kevin Dickie, Director of Athletics at UNB. “As we continue to host national championships in all of our sports, we could not be more appreciative of their strong belief in UNB varsity athletics.”

The University Cup men’s National Hockey Championships will be held at the Aitken University Centre and will be televised nationally. The federal government is investing $100,000 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF). These investments will help UNB with costs such as promotions and translations.

For information on ACOA’s programs, please visit http://www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca/