North West Hockey Development Association secretary treasurer, Hugh Martin, left, and president, Don Hydukewich, right, present a donation for $20,000 to Battlefords North Stars’ President/Governor, Shandon Reichert May 17. (submitted photo/Jennifer Whyte)

By Martin Martinson

A lasting impact

North West Hockey, making a difference in the community

May 17, 2019 | 5:00 PM

Since first established in 1972, the North West Hockey Development Association (NWHDA) has left their mark on the Battlefords community time and time again.

A proud supporter of the Battlefords North Stars, the Association has also played an integral role in supporting several other community organizations. Those organizations include the AAA Stars, and various minor hockey teams, as well as non-hockey related groups, such as the local swim club, curling club, army cadets, and 4-H club, to name a few.

Annually, the NWHDA supports the North Stars on a large scale, with this year’s total donation averaging just over $28,000.

The money however, is really just the tip of the iceberg.

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For Don Hydukewich, President of the NWHDA, and Hugh Martin, the association’s head of inventory and secretary treasurer, the organization has served as a fixture within their daily lives for a number of years.

“There’s a lot of work involved after-hours that a lot of people don’t realize,” Hydukewich said. “It’s something that has to be done and it’s really not that bad. It gives me something to do after [work] hours besides sitting there watching TV and vegetating, instead, I can be there at the rink cleaning up and helping out.”

Hydukewich, who can often be found at the rink following his regular 8 to 5 weekday workday elsewhere, said the role of hockey within the community is one of great importance.

“It’s important because it brings people in from outside the Battlefords and makes for a better environment within the community,” he said. “It [also] keeps the young guys busy and gives them some place to go to, to have fun playing hockey.”

Marketing Manager of the North Stars, Jennifer Whyte, said in a statement that the team is extremely grateful for the work of the NWHDA, and the dedication of people like Hydukewich and Martin.

“We are very lucky to have such a great community presence and support system and it’s even more special when these supporters are big fans of the team,” Whyte said.

“[Martin] is at the rink every morning and it’s clear he is truly devoted to The North West Hockey Development Association,” she continued. “The support they provide, not only to us, but to other non-profits is substantial and we are extremely grateful to have them supporting our community.”

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Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1