Introducing VFIHA’s Indigenous crest designed by Debra Sparrow

About VFIHA’s Indigenous Crest 

In 2021, the BC Hockey Indigenous Participation Work Group encouraged local minor hockey associations to appoint an Indigenous Liaison Person who would initiate and assist with the building of quality relationships with their local First Nation(s). Due to the high level of interest in this position, VFIHA created an Indigenous Liaison Committee to share in this role. 

In 2022, this committee sent out a call for proposals for the creation of an Indigenous jersey crest as a way to celebrate, share and educate VFIHA members on Indigenous culture and to create an opportunity to build a bridge between the association and local First Nations. Musqueam artist Debra Sparrow was commissioned to design the crest. 

The Story
Written by Debra Sparrow

While sitting by the river where eagles gather, waiting patiently, waiting for the right moment to strike using their strength to capture their prey, it came to me that it is a similar approach in sport, and in this case, hockey. I therefore adapted the eagle’s head perched on top of the V and the feather in the space inside the V, representing strength, patience and courage.

About Debra Sparrow

Debra Sparrow is a member of the Musqueam Nation and is self-taught in Salish design and jewelry making. She designed the logo for the Canadian hockey teams for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver, and continues to work on pieces close to her heart at her home in Musqueam. Debra is also an acclaimed weaver and is deeply involved with the revival of Musqueam weaving. Her work has been displayed at the University of British Columbia, the Canadian Museum of History, the Royal BC Museum, Vancouver International Airport, the Burke Museum and the Smithsonian. 

It is Debra’s hope to educate others about the beauty and integrity of her people’s history through her art. She co-created the Musqueam Museum School with the University of British Columbia and among teaching classes, shares her knowledge through public speaking, presentations and publications.