Seniors PWHL Trip Honouring Ellie Penasse: Indigenous Heritage Unity Game

Press Release

February 11, 2026

NFN Seniors 55+ are invited to join us for a special trip to honour Ellie Penasse and her lasting impact on women’s hockey.

From NFN, Ellie emerged as a courageous trailblazer whose determination helped reshape the landscape for Indigenous girls in hockey. At a time when opportunities for female players were scarce, Ellie often had to dress and play like the boys. Her resilience and passion pushed through barriers across Turtle Island, creating space for Indigenous girls who dreamed of being part of the sport. Today, her influence continues to inspire future generations.

Ellie will be honoured at the PWHL game on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at TD Place (1015 Bank St., Ottawa ON at 7 p.m.), in recognition of the path she helped carve. On the same evening, the Nbisiing Redhawks Drum Group has been invited to perform an opening drum ceremony before the game. The Nbisiing Emiigaazwaad Hockey Team has also been invited to stand alongside Ellie on this special occasion.

Registration Details:

• Registration opens Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.
• Registration closes Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
• A Facebook Live draw will take place on Friday, February 20, 2026 on the NFN Administration Facebook Page to announce selected participants.

Trip Information:

• There are 50 spots available, with each participant is able to bring one guest (plus one).
• Participants and their guest will share a hotel room.
• The bus will depart Garden Village at 9 a.m.  and do a pick-up in Duchesnay for 9:30 a.m.
• The bus will depart Ottawa at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

To Register, Contact: registerlchc@nfn.ca or call 705-753-3312

For any questions, reach out to:
Jon Watson
Recreation Activator
jonw@nfn.ca
705-753-6971

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