The countdown is on for two communities vying for the coveted title of Kraft Hockeyville 2025, as the final voting phase kicks off this weekend. Sackville, New Brunswick, and Crossfield, Alberta, have both made it to the final four of the national competition, and both towns are rallying their residents to vote as often as possible to secure victory.
Rob Nurnbur, President of the Sackville Minor Hockey Association, is at the forefront of the campaign in Sackville. He’s been vocal about the importance of community support and engagement during this critical voting period. "Jokingly, but not joking… I’ve been asking people to take off Friday as well to vote. You can vote as often and as frequently as you can," Nurnbur stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The excitement in Sackville is palpable. The community has rallied support from across the Atlantic provinces, with Nurnbur reaching out to Hockey New Brunswick, Hockey PEI, and Hockey Newfoundland, all of whom have pledged their backing. “They are asking their associations and their provinces to do the same as well,” he added, highlighting the unity among hockey communities.
Events to celebrate and promote voting will take place at the Sackville Arena throughout the weekend. On April 4 and 5, residents can enjoy a pancake breakfast, barbecues, and numerous voting stations set up to facilitate participation. There are even plans for a parade and live music on Saturday, making it a festive atmosphere for the community. Nurnbur expressed his pride in the journey, stating, "The journey started for me personally two years ago. Over the last year, my committee has been working really hard to make this a reality for our community. And you know, I think we’ve already made history.”
Meanwhile, in Crossfield, the town is equally enthusiastic about its chances. Announced as a finalist on March 15, the community has been busy organizing rallies to boost voting enthusiasm. The first rally kicks off at 7 a.m. on April 4, with another scheduled for April 5 at 3 p.m. The goal? To gather “a million or two” votes during the unlimited voting period.
However, the town is adhering to strict voting guidelines, as outlined on their Facebook page, Crossfield Chases Hockeyville. The community cannot offer any incentives for votes, meaning there will be no prizes or discounts to entice participation. Instead, the focus is on community spirit and neighborly support.
Voting for Kraft Hockeyville begins on April 4 at 9 a.m. and will conclude on April 5 at 5 p.m. Residents can vote as many times as they wish during this period. The results will be unveiled live during Hockey Night In Canada on April 5, with Crossfield planning a live viewing party to celebrate the community’s efforts.
The stakes are high for both towns, as the winner of Kraft Hockeyville not only earns the title but also receives $250,000 for rink upgrades and the opportunity to host a preseason NHL game. This recognition can significantly boost local hockey programs and community pride.
As the voting days approach, both Sackville and Crossfield are brimming with excitement and determination. Each community is showcasing its unique spirit and commitment to hockey, making this competition more than just a title; it’s about pride, unity, and the love of the game.
Residents are encouraged to participate actively and spread the word to ensure their town has the best chance at victory. With the support of hockey associations and the enthusiasm of local residents, both Sackville and Crossfield are ready to make their case for Kraft Hockeyville 2025.
As the clock ticks down, the question remains: which community will emerge victorious? The answer lies in the hands of the voters this weekend. Get ready to cheer on your town and cast your votes!
