Treaty 2 Territory –
Hello, my name is Danielle McGurry, and I am an Anishinaabe Two Spirit Ikwe with roots in Pinaymootang, and I was just recently hired as Communications Keeper.
Thank you for taking the time to read my introductory blog post. I am beyond excited to join this incredible team and look forward to helping wherever I can be of assistance!
Sidenote, if anyone (adult or youth) would like to learn more about becoming an on-ice hockey official, going away to attend University and play hockey, or any questions at all, please reach out!
I grew up in Winnipeg and finished high school at Sturgeon Heights Collegiate. I have always been involved in hockey. I started with playing boys hockey, then AA and High School, and after graduation I left home to play 2 years of NCAA Division III hockey in Pennsylvania, USA.
My hockey officiating began at the age of 12 until the age of 25. It’s through reffing that I was able to travel and officiate women’s hockey in numerous National Championships in Edmonton, Dawson Creek and Calgary. I was also fortunate to travel to places like Mexico, Japan, Spain, and St. Catharines for IIHF World Championships. One of my most memorable highlights was being invited to work a Canada vs USA pre-Olympic game in Calgary. It was a dream of mine to be on the same ice as Team Canada, and I had the time of my life. Officiating also allowed me to become a clinic instructor, supervise other officials and help run female official’s tournaments.
My dream to officiate Olympic hockey was cut short when I suffered a serious concussion while officiating a University game in Montreal, where I was living in 2016.
While I continue to struggle coping with the daily effects of Post-Concussion Syndrome and severe neck trauma, I am able to maintain a positive attitude primarily due to the support system I am blessed with.
I am surrounded by amazing family and friends, including my incredible fiancée Janelle, And let’s not forget our super cute fur babies; 2 cats and a dog.
Best wishes to you and your families!
Miigwech
Submitted by: Danielle McGurry, Communications Keeper
Last modified: March 9, 2022
