A core priority within the provincial strategy for Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation includes the development of a consistent, comprehensive Indigenous Team BC program that results in increased participation and better preparation for athletes to participate in elite competitions such as the North American Indigenous Games and the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.
The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is responsible for managing the Team BC Program for both the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) and the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.
Team BC for the North American Indigenous Games and the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships
For more information on Team BC for National Aboriginal Hockey Championships, please visit Team BC – National Aboriginal Hockey Championships.
For more information on Team BC for North American Indigenous Games, please visit Team BC – North American Indigenous Games.
Team BC Logo
The Soaring Raven represents the strength and determination of the Team BC athletes, coaches and all nations within British Columbia. The Sun provides connection to our ancestors and is the basis of all light and nourishment on this earth. The Raven flying, swooping and soaring parallels the plight of the athlete. With great confidence they show that new heights are possible by transforming and adapting to the surroundings of the unknown.
Designed by Kwakwaka’wakw Artist, Jamin Zuroski
Team BC Theme Song
After launching a province-wide competition, I·SPARC unveiled Team BC’s new theme song set to premiere at the Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG).
The song is used to inspire Team BC during competitions and to create a unique presence at the Opening and Closing Ceremonies.
Seven songs were submitted from Indigenous artists from across BC to the competition and were adjudicated by Team BC’s Theme Song Selection Committee ultimately leading to the winning song composed by William Wasden Jr. from the Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw Nation.
The theme song was unveiled at Team BC’s Pep Rally prior to the 2017 NAIG Opening Ceremonies and continues to be sung at all future events in which Team BC participates.
“I composed the song in the spirit of inclusion and bringing as many Indigenous cultures from BC together,” William Wasden Jr. says of his composition. “The song is steady and upbeat and is meant to be used for celebrating and uplifting spirit. In our Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw tradition, these social songs are beautiful simple tunes that can easily be taught, so everyone is able to participate and fully enjoy the spirit of the song. I composed the song in the Chinook language because it is an inclusive language that is used throughout the Province.”
“Team BC’s new theme song represents the spirit and passion of our athletes and coaches,” says Lara Mussell, Team BC Chef de Mission with I·SPARC. “We will be proud to sing this inspiring piece by William Wasden Jr. Our new theme song will further unify us as a team.”
545 Indigenous coaches and athletes from across the Province will learn the new theme song from William Wasden Jr. at Team BC’s Pep Rally. Team BC’s contingent will sing the song while marching in the Athlete Parade as they enter the Opening Ceremony.
“We are so pleased with the result of our province-wide competition,” said Rick Brant, I·SPARC Executive Director. “Our new theme song will be a part of Team BC’s legacy and we are thrilled to have a song that encompasses the mission and values of the team.”
Listen to Team BC’s Theme Song!
For I·SPARC updates we encourage joining our mailing list today and/or liking our I·SPARC Facebook page to receive updates on Team BC related announcements.
U16 Soccer action Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario on July 21, 2017. (Photo Credit: Mina Holmes)
Team BC marching to the Opening Ceremony of the Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games. (Photo Credit: Mina Holmes)