PNG supports indigenous athletes with tournament and half-time sponsorship
PRINCE RUPERT, B.C., April 3, 2022 – Pacific Northern Gas Ltd. (PNG) has announced its sponsorship of the All Native Basketball Tournament (ANBT) in Prince Rupert, B.C.
The week-long event brings together more than 50 teams of Indigenous athletes from communities across the province and Alaska to compete in the largest basketball tournament in B.C.
“PNG is delighted to support this exciting cultural event and to recognize the commitment of the athletes, coaches and spectators who take part,” said David Keir, Director of Business Development and Stakholder Relations at PNG. “Over the next six days, Indigenous communities will come together to cheer on their hometown teams with pride and celebrate the importance of nation, community and family. It’s part of our commitment to build relationships based on mutual respect with the Indigenous peoples and communities where we live, work and play.”
The tournament includes four divisions – women, seniors, intermediate and masters. Each divisional series will culminate in a final play-off game on Apr. 9, 2022.
“The tournament is a highlight for the local community and the communities of visiting teams, demonstrating the powerful, positive impact of sport,” said Ryan Franke, Indigenous Relations Specialist at PNG. “It’s an honour to be part of the event and to give back in ways that bring Indigenous communities together in fun and friendly competition.”
The first ANBT took place in 1947 and has grown dramatically to include dozens of teams. All games will be broadcast on CFNR-FM radio station, which is owned and operated by Northern Native Broadcasting based in Terrace, B.C. PNG’s Ryan Franke will provide play-by-play and colour commentary of the games.
“We’re thrilled to have PNG’s support for the tournament and half-time catch event,” said Peter Haugan, Chairperson of ANBT. “The games are a source of pride for our community and help foster unity and well-being of all the participating teams and those cheering them on.”
To learn more about the ANBT, visit www.http://anbt.ca/ or visit the ANBT Facebook page.
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PNG Media Contact: media@png.ca
About Pacific Northern Gas Ltd.
PNG has been providing homes, communities and businesses with safe, reliable energy since 1968. PNG proudly serves approximately 42,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in more than 16 communities across northern B.C. PNG is a wholly-owned subsidiary of TriSummit Utilities Inc.