An emotional and successful gathering was recently held in Moose Factory to commemorate a local hockey player who died three years ago.
The Michael Trapper Gathering, in its second year, was a four-day event that involved hundreds of people. It included a hockey tournament, a curling event and step-dancing competition.
The gathering, held at the Thomas Cheechoo Memorial Complex Arena, was started last year in memory of Michael Trapper, who died in a snowmobile accident.
“When Michael passed away, we decided to have something in memory of Michael,” said Bob Chilton, co-coordinator. “The three things he loved was hockey, curling and step-dancing. So the committee decided to put on this gathering, emphasizing the three events. All in all it was a touching experience.” Chilton said the event will continue next year. “It was a good way to bring people together, hockey players and spectators, step-dancers and curlers.” The gathering was made possible through fundraising. It saw the participation of I (, hockey teams from Chisasibi, Waskaganish, Moose Factory, Moosonee, Attawapiskat, Kashechewan and Wiky. And a total of 24 curling teams.
The team Michael played for, the Moose Factory North Stars, retired Michael’s sweater and the number “4,” which were presented to the Trapper family. The North Stars also acquired new sweaters with “4” embrailed on the side.
