As the World Cup is in full force, Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation has announced the plans for a new soccer pitch in their community.
The Cree Nation has been selected as the only First Nation in Canada to receive a new community soccer pitch through a national infrastructure initiative led by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities.
The new pitch will be built at Chief Beardy Memorial Elementary School and is among the first projects scheduled to open in 2026 as part of Jumpstart’s plan to construct 25 community soccer pitches across Canada by 2029.
Councillor Sheryl Okemaysim, who oversees education for Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation, said the selection reflects the Nation’s commitment to youth, wellness and sport.
“This pitch will be a place where our children can play, grow, and connect right here at our elementary school,” Okemaysim said.
The facility will include durable playing surfaces, multiple goals, benches and accessible entry points designed to create a welcoming space for youth and families.
Chief Edwin Ananas said the project grew out of discussions about expanding First Nations sports opportunities and credited longtime sports advocate Michael Linklater with helping connect the Nation with Jumpstart representatives.
“This is more than a field,” Ananas said. “It is a commitment to our children and their health.”
The pitch is expected to serve as a central hub for sport, learning and community connection for years to come.
(TOP PHOTO – courtesy Facebook/Beardys and Okemasis Cree Nation)