We won!
Elliot Lake has been crowned this year's Kraft Hockeyville, announced during Saturday's Hockey Night in Canada broadcast.
The win comes with a $250,000 cheque, which the city hopes to use to help replace the aging Centennial Arena. Last September, the arena was closed suddenly, due to structural issues.
The announcement also means Elliot Lake will be given the chance to host a pre-season NHL game (if the arena meets all the requirements of the league and the players' association).
And the winner of Kraft Hockeyville 2024 is....
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) March 31, 2024
Elliot Lake, Ontario!! 🎉@hockeyville | #KraftHockeyville pic.twitter.com/4u3fCCaPU7
A good crowd was on hand at Collins Hall gearing up for a Hockey Night in Canada Watch Party, beginning at 6 p.m. today.
At the time of the announcement, around 7:45 p.m., it was standing room only.
The mayor some council members and many city staff were in the media area surrounded by young Elliot Lakers awaiting the news.
When the announcement came, only the word, "Elliot" could be heard from the announcer before the crowd erupted in cheers and applause.
The city caught the Kraft Hockeyville spirit early. Signs and banners are visible all over town, in stores, on fences, cars, and homes. The win tonight was a huge boost for morale in Elliot Lake.
A ball hockey tournament was held this afternoon. A watch party was also hosted at the curling club from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Elliot Lakers caught the Hockeyville spirit early and it kept on building.
One resident who spoke with ElliotLakeToday this afternoon said, no matter what the outcome, it has been wonderful to see the community come together.