The Ontario Provincial Police is showing its support for the Little Native Hockey League tournament with decals appearing on OPP vehicles across the province ahead of the annual event.
The tournament is scheduled to take place March 16 to 20, 2026, in Markham and is recognized as Ontario’s largest annual hockey tournament for First Nations youth.
OPP vehicles will once again display “Proud Supporter of the LNHL” decals, returning this year with a new design. The initiative was launched in 2025 through a partnership involving the OPP Indigenous Policing Bureau, the Indigenous Police Chiefs of Ontario and the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee.
Police say the program is intended to demonstrate support for the tournament while raising funds for First Nations youth.
Last year, decal sales raised $7,500, which helped establish a new Ontario Police Services bursary for LNHL players interested in pursuing careers in policing and community safety.
“The OPP recognizes that the LNHL Tournament offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful community outreach and foster positive relationships with Indigenous youth,” said Chief Superintendent Gary Maracle of the OPP Indigenous Policing Bureau. “Every decal sold helps strengthen community connections, celebrate culture, and create opportunities for First Nations athletes.”
In 2025, the tournament hosted 275 teams and about 3,500 players and attracted more than 10,000 spectators.
The Little Native Hockey League emphasizes education, citizenship, sportsmanship and respect, values organizers say align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s 94 Calls to Action and other efforts aimed at advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
OPP members are expected to attend arenas throughout the tournament to support players and engage with communities.
More information about the tournament is available at lnhl.ca.
