History
Eastern Door and the North (EDN) is the name of the team that represents the First Nations and Inuit in Quebec in various national and international sporting competitions, including the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships (NAHC) and the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG).
Initially called “Team Kahnawà:ke,” it became Team EDN, uniting the various communities of the territory under a single name.
Until 2011, Team EDN was coordinated by the community of Kahnawà:ke. In July 2011, the Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador entrusted the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission with the task of promoting sports and recreation activities and coordinating the EDN delegation’s participation in various events.
Team EDN, which brings together teams made up of members from different nations, proudly represents First Nations and Inuit cultures and values.
Team EDN has shined on the national stage on many occasions, winning five NAHC titles and an impressive total of 17 medals. With over 20 appearances at this major event, Team EDN continues to showcase commitment, talent, and perseverance, year after year.
With more than seven appearances at the NAIG, Team EDN has built a solid reputation in the sporting world. Over the years, its athletes have accumulated over 340 medals—including more than 110 gold, 130 silver, and 100 bronze.
Over the years, several members have left their mark on Team EDN through their commitment and passion. Dave Canadian, for example, made significant contributions to the team as a coach, mission staff member, and Chef de Mission.
Values
Team EDN is guided by three fundamental values: respect, perseverance and sportsmanship.
Mission
Team EDN is committed to reinforcing a sense of cultural belonging and cultural pride among First Nations and Inuit youth in Quebec. Its mission is to:
- Instill in Indigenous youth a sense of accomplishment, pride and self-confidence.
- Build a sense of belonging to the community and nation and a sense of pride in representing First Nations and Inuit cultures, identity and perseverance.
- Build sports and athletic skills in First Nations and Inuit communities.
- Encourage Indigenous youth to adopt healthy lifestyles.
- Instill in Indigenous youth a sense of accomplishment, pride and self-confidence.
- Build a sense of belonging to the community and nation and a sense of pride in representing First Nations and Inuit cultures, identity and athletic excellence.
- Build sports and athletic skills in First Nations and Inuit communities.
- Encourage Indigenous youth to adopt healthy lifestyles.
