A member of the Squamish First Nation, Crofton's Wyatt Blace has been named one of 10 provincial recipients of the 2024 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport.
The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I·SPARC) made the announcement from Cowichan Tribes territory on May 20.
As a recipient, Blace will receive a $500 bursary and a framed limited edition Premier’s Award print from renowned First Nations artist Carey Newman. In addition, they will have their photo and biography on display in the BC Sports Hall of Fame.
"It is an honour to be named as a provincial recipient of the 2024 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport and I want to thank I-SPARC for this recognition," Blace said in his acceptance speech. "I would like to thank my coaches with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs, Joe and Ryan, as well as all my teammates support staff and the community of Port Alberni for everything they have done to help me along the way."
Blace is committed to playing hockey at Dartmouth College starting in the 2026-27 season with aspirations of making it to the NHL.
"To my family, thank you for all the support you've given me over the years to chase my dream of playing hockey. Congratulations to all of the other recipients, it is an honour to be celebrated alongside you."
Blace's brother, Carter Blace, received the 2023 Premier’s Award for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport for the Vancouver Island Region.
