MNBC is proud to be a part of Danica Maynard's hockey journey and see this talented Métis athlete's hard work pay off! Following Canada's win at the 2025 IIHF U18 Women's World Hockey Championship, Danica wrote the following letter thanking MNBC for the support. She has given permission for it to be shared publicly.
March 1, 2025
Dear President Walter Mineault, Minister of Sport Dean Gladue, and Senior Manager, Sports & Active Living Adam Fitchett,
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude to you and the Métis Nation of British Columbia staff for the support during my journey at the IIHF U18 Women's World Hockey Championship in Vantaa, Finland. It is an honor to represent not only Canada but also my Métis heritage on the world stage.
Receiving a call from President Mineault and the Métis Nation of British Columbia staff, congratulating me on being selected for Team Canada was such an honour. The support and encouragement I received from Minister Gladue while playing at the U18 Women's World Hockey Championship is a reminder of the power of our community and the importance of staying connected to our heritage. The support meant the world to me and my family.
As a Métis woman in sport, I am proud to represent and speak of our culture on a big stage. I was invited to share my experience and journey to the Federal Commissioner of Sports and other Government Official. This allowed me to speak on behalf of all Métis athletes how a supportive community can empower an athlete like me. This motivates me to continue to strive for excellence at the next stage of my journey, knowing that I am supported by such a strong and caring Métis community.
Winning the gold medal and flying the Métis flag at the IIHF U18 Women's World Championship in Vantaa, Finland was an experience I will carry with me for the rest of my life. In turn, I will be encouraging other Métis athletes to pursue their dreams. I am proud of the journey I have taken, and I am grateful for the role the Métis Nation of British Columbia has played in helping me achieve my goals.
Thank you once again for such a strong supportive community. It means the world to me, and I will continue to work hard to make our community proud on and off the ice.
Sincerely,
Danica Maynard
U18 Women's Hockey Player