THUNDER BAY — The Superior International Junior Hockey League has appointed its first-ever director of diversity and inclusion.
The post will be filled by Trevor Iserhoff, a member of Moose Cree First Nation who lives in Kenora.
Iserhoff is no stranger to the SIJHL, as he currently serves as a scout for the Kam River Fighting Walleye, specializing in the evaluation and recruitment of Indigenous players for that team.
He will continue holding that position as well.
The SIJHL's diversity and inclusion initiative is part of a strategy within the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) to be at the forefront of diversity issues and positive initiatives to eradicate racism and support minority participation in hockey, an SIJHL news release stated.
Iserhoff said he's eager to apply his knowledge and experience to the betterment of the league, and to represent the SIJHL on the CJHL's national diversity and inclusion committee.
"The SIJHL plays on the land of the Robinson Superior Treaty and Treaty 3 territory, so I am honoured and excited to be working with the SIJHL. I am looking forward to helping the league and their respective teams in an advisory role," Iserhoff said.
The league will begin formulating its formal diversity and inclusion strategy and policies immediately, and expects to have further announcements leading up to the 2021-2022 season.
SIJHL commissioner Darrin Nicholas said he applauds the CJHL for recognizing the importance of a focused strategy to make hockey more inclusive and to celebrate players of diverse ethnicity and varied backgrounds.
"The SIJHL intends to be a leader in this movement, and we are ecstatic that Trevor has accepted the mandate to help the league build and execute a strategy from the ground up," Nicholas said.
He added that the end-goal is not only to educate players, team staff and officials as to the sensitivities of equity, diversity and inclusion in society, but that those associated with the league become future ambassadors for diversity within their own communities.
