North Battleford to consider up to $20K in support for Tony Cote Summer Games

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Bluesky
• Share on X
• Copy Link

City policy allows recreation fee subsidies when events are expected to generate broader community benefits, including economic activity and tourism opportunities. 

CKOM Staff

Former Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Vaughn Solomon Schofield dies at age 82

3h ago

'A good way to remember'

North Battleford Legion opens applications for 2026 Veterans Banner Program

3h ago

Increasing costs

Travelers face higher costs and fewer flight options as jet fuel prices swing

3h ago

Administration noted the request aligns with the city’s strategic priorities related to community well-being, partnerships and recreation planning goals focused on inclusion and access.

The report states approving the request could result in up to $20,000 in lost facility rental revenue for the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

First launched in 1974 by Chief Tony Cote and the Cote First Nation, the Tony Cote Winter and Summer Games were created to provide First Nations youth under the age of 20 with sport opportunities that were often inaccessible through mainstream systems.

BATC expects about 3,500 athletes from 13 tribal councils and First Nations across Saskatchewan to participate in the 2026 Games. Including families, coaches and volunteers, organizers estimate as many as 15,000 people could travel to the area. The operating budget for the event is estimated between $1.1 million and $1.3 million.

The Games are scheduled to run from July 26 to 31, featuring archery, canoe and kayak, golf, soccer, softball, beach volleyball and athletics competitions. Events are planned across several venues, with Centennial Park hosting soccer, softball and track; Jackfish Lodge hosting golf; and, King Hill hosting archery. Canoe and kayak races are planned at Moosomin First Nation, while The Ridge is expected to serve as the Athletes Village. Additional supporting venues include the Dekker Centre for the Performing Arts and the Access Communications Centre.

Teams confirmed for 2026 include Agency Chiefs Tribal Council, Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs, Big River First Nation, File Hills–Qu’Appelle Tribal Council, Prince Albert Grand Council, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Southeast Treaty 4 Tribal Council, Meadow Lake Tribal Council, Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation, Woodland Sector (PAGC North), Onion Lake Cree Nation, Touchwood Agency Tribal Council and Yorkton Tribal Council.

City council is scheduled to consider the request during its Feb. 9 regular meeting.

—

cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com