In early 2025, the Nunavut Fury Hockey Association launched with a U-19 hockey tournament in Rankin Inlet, on the west coast of Hudson Bay, about 300 kilometres, or 186 miles north of Churchill, Manitoba. Since then, the tournaments have grown and the participants have followed suit, and early last month, the Nunavut Fury Hockey Association relaunched as the Nunavut Ukpiit Hockey Association.

"This name for our girls' hockey association reflects Inuit women and girls' representation and trailblazing in hockey over the last 35 years in our Territory," as described on the association's website. "Ukpiit (snowy owls) have sharp vision, are fierce defenders, are keen listeners, and they soar. We want our new organization name and logo to represent Nunavut girls and to amplify women and girls soaring in the world of hockey."

The growth and passion for girls' and women's hockey is nothing new for the residents of Nunavut, as they have had the Iqaluit Amateur Hockey Association, the local Minor Hockey Association for Iqaluit, supporting age groups U-7 to U-18. Now, through the Nunavut Ukpiit Hockey Association, participants have access to programs designed to support success both on and off the ice, including on-ice training and competitions and Inuit-led, holistic, wellness-focused programming. All of this is done while remaining focused on integrating Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit societal values into every decision made.

"No girl should have to feel like her dreams in hockey are limited by the community she lives in, the equipment she has access to, or whether the right opportunity happens to come at the right time. That is why Ukpiit matters," said Max Joy, the Director of Programming and Initiatives and founder of the Nunavut Fury. "What excites me most is not just what Ukpiit can offer this year. It is what Ukpiit can become over time."

According to the association's website, the short- and long-term plans include camps, travel teams, and "programs designed to develop skills, confidence, and leadership." There will also be coaching opportunities and ways for the community to be involved in meaningful ways, with more details coming.

Girls' and women's hockey continues to grow in all regions of the country, and through the Nunavut Ukpiit Hockey Association, participants passionate about their long-term journey in the sport have a place with a clear vision for the future while remaining rooted in the region's values and beliefs.