Yukon Native Hockey Tournament begins in Whitehorse

Good luck finding an empty hotel room in Whitehorse this weekend hundreds of people are in town from across Yukon, B.C. and the N.W.T. to play in, and watch, the Kilrich Building CentresYukon Native Hockey Tournament.

"Our hotels are full, our restaurants are full," said tournament organizer Karee Vallevand. "I do believe it's the biggest First Nations sporting event in the Yukon."

There are 43 teams registered this year, in six different divisions. Vallevand said that meansmore than 600 players will be in town, "plus all their fans."

Special guests this year include former NHL playerReggie Leach, and country singer Aaron Pritchett.

The first gamegets underway Friday morning, with tournament play scheduled at the Takhini arena and the Canada Games Centre.

"I think it's the kick-off to spring, you know, leading into summer. It's everybody excited, it's a beautiful weekend," Vallevand said.