By Joel Gasson

Saskatchewan Partnership Bidding to Bring the North American Indigenous Games to the Province

May 11, 2011 | 6:56 AM

A partnership comprised of The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN), Saskatchewan's Metis Nation, the Province of Saskatchewan and the City of Regina is bidding for Regina to play host to the 2014 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG).

At a media conference at Regina's City Hall Tuesday afternoon, representatives from the partner groups announced that they will present their final bid tomorrow in Moncton, New Brunswick. Those in attendance were Minister of First Nations and Metis Relations Ken Cheveldayoff, FSIN's Vice-Chief Morley Watson, and Regina City Councillor Chris Szarka.

The NAIG Site Evaluation Committee recently visited a variety of potential event sites, including: The Tor Hill and Murray Golf Courses; the Mount Pleasant Sport Park; O'Neill High School; and Thom Collegiate. London, Ontario and Halifax, Nova Scotia are other cities which are putting forth bids to host the Games.

Minister Cheveldayoff, representing Premier Brad Wall and the provincial government stated: “The Government of Saskatchewan is honoured to be a partner with the FSIN and the City of Regina in the bid for the 2014 North American Indigenous Games.” He added: “Our accessibility for all provinces, our sporting and hospitality venues, and our welcoming citizens will make these games the most successful ever.”

Likewise, Councillor Chris Szarka showed support on behalf of Mayor Pat Fiacco and Regina city councillors: 'The City of Regina would be thrilled to be a part if this exciting event […] The 2014 games would welcome hundreds of coaches, players, athletes, family members—and our hotels, stores, restaurants and entertainment and cultural centres would receive economic benefits from this event.” The event, the largest for aboriginal youth, is anticipated to draw approximately 10,000 competitors, coaching staff and spectators. According to Vice-Chief Morley Watson, it is also anticipated to rake in thirty-five million dollars for the Province of Saskatchewan and the City of Regina.

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Apart from the economical benefits, the NAIG would have an invaluable positive impact upon Saskatchewan's aboriginal youth, according to Watson: 'for us to get them involved in sports, we belief it's a builder of character and positive lifestyle'. He also stresses the importance of what he calls a 'true partnership', an example of cooperation between Saskatchewan's first nations groups and its government for aboriginal youth and all citizens of our province.

The last and only other North American Indigenous Games were held in Prince Albert in 1993. Team Saskatchewan has won the overall championship in six out of the seven NAIG held.

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