Indigenous Student‑Athletes Making their Mark on the National stage

Every time the Cougars women’s hockey team hit the ice in St. Louis this week, they do so with a unique opportunity to make history both on and off the ice. The 18-player 2025–26 Assiniboine Cougars Women’s hockey roster is composed of nine athletes with Indigenous heritage; players who recognize their unique nations while making their presence felt on an international stage.

Among the team are Brooke Cyr, Abby Dixon, Kali Remillard, Lexi Remillard, Maddison Haliuk, Rachel Halldorson, and Alexis Campbell all proud members of the Red River Métis, with Kadence Cress having roots at Fisher River Cree Nation along with Hailey Sitter who is part of the Tahltan Nation in British Columbia.

“My culture is a big part of me. I wear the Métis patch on my hockey pants, and I’m proud to be Métis. I think it is important to be a Métis person at this tournament.” said Alexis Campbell, an ECE (Early Childhood Education Student) from Winnipeg, Red River Métis citizen and co-chair of the Métis Regional Youth Advisory Board as well as the provincial Youth Advisory board for her nation on the traditional homeland of the Métis. As part of her role she helps promote youth involvement and youth awareness of Métis culture.

Cougars head coach Charles Tweed recognized this earlier in the season, and celebrated it with his players. “From our perspective we have such a deep connection on this team with so many players who are Indigenous, so to be able to pay homage to their roots and First Nation, Métis, and Indigenous communities across Canada is something that we think is pretty special, and for all those players who have those connections it’s extra special.”

The Cougars also sport a bit of Metis heritage in their Player of the Game hat, which Campbell coincidentally enough received yesterday along with her teammates Kadence Cress (Fisher River Cree Nation), and Kali Remillard (Red River Métis) for their efforts in a 5-0 victory over the Northern Michigan Wildcats. The hat which recognizes the Reconciliation journey, while also recognizing players who impact the game in a positive way, was created by Métis artist and friend of Campbell, Marissa Sinclair. Sinclair is from Dauphin Manitoba, and notes her journey with beading reflects the prominent Metis infinity symbol, never stopping, and always willing to learn and teach others.

“Métis people are the flower and beadwork people, so it’s awesome to have that represented on this team," added Campbell. “For many years Indigenous people were not recognized or treated positively, so it is nice to see how the culture has been embraced here and the player of the game hat and its history is a big part of this team.”

Ahead of the week-long tournament, well-wishes poured in from across the country in support of the student athletes wearing their heritage with pride as a member of the Cougars.

“I am super proud of the entire Assiniboine Cougars women’s hockey team as they compete at this week’s nationals in St. Louis.” said Will Goodon, Minister of Housing, Minister of Identity Protection and acting VP for Southwest Region. “The fact that 7 players on the team are Red River Métis only adds to my excitement. On behalf of the National Government of the Red River Métis, I’m sending our support to the women who I know will leave it all on the ice and make us all proud. The Southwest Region - Manitoba Métis Federation and the Manitoba Métis Federation salutes you all!”

“On behalf of the Chief, Council, and the entire Fisher River Cree Nation community, we proudly congratulate Kaydence on representing our Nation as a member of the Cougars Women's Hockey program. Kaydence, your dedication, determination, and hard work have brought great honor to the community.”

“Hailey, you make the Tahltan Nation proud.” said Kerry Carlick, President of the Tahltan Central Government. “Watching you compete on the national stage is inspiring for our people and our young athletes back home. We are cheering you on all week. Good luck at Nationals!"

“When people think of Reconciliation they think of big acts all the time, and obviously those are important, but anytime we can just do something even small but significant we think it has an impact, and it says hey, we’re here, and we are proud.” added Tweed.

As a commitment to reconciliation and continued learning, the Cougars Women’s hockey team celebrates these players and their teammates in representing their communities, and the college with pride.