Yukon Handgames: Carcross First Nation's Cultural Renaissance

The 37th Yukon Annual Handgames Championship in Carcross showcased the growing popularity and cultural significance of this Dene tradition.

The vibrant handgames tradition is thriving in the Yukon, particularly within the Carcross First Nation community. The 37th Yukon Annual Handgames Championship, hosted in Carcross, was a resounding success, drawing a record number of participants and spectators.

A Record-Breaking Tournament

The Haa Shagóon Hídi Hall in Carcross was packed with drummers, spectators, and handgames players during the 37th Yukon Annual Handgames Championship. Gordon Peter, a seasoned player from the Ross River Dena Council, noted the exceptional turnout, with 74 teams participating. He attributed this surge in popularity to the growing interest in handgames and Carcross's accessible location near Whitehorse.

Handgames: More Than Just a Game

Handgames is a traditional Dene game played between two six-player teams. One team hides a token, and the other team guesses its location. The game's appeal extends beyond mere competition. Gordon Peter emphasizes its role in reconnecting people with their culture and fostering community healing. The rhythmic drumming during the games, he says, is like a heartbeat, uniting everyone present.

Carcross/Tagish First Nation's Hosting Triumph

Dawn Alesna, the tournament's co-organizer, expressed the Carcross/Tagish First Nation's excitement in hosting the championship for the first time. Winning the honor from Selkirk First Nation, the community embraced the opportunity to bring spiritual upliftment through the tournament. Alesna also highlighted the importance of involving young people in the games, ensuring the tradition's continuation.

Youth and Future Generations

Nearly 20 youth teams participated, demonstrating the growing interest among younger generations. Ten-year-old Mirage Barrett from Carcross/Tagish First Nation shared her enthusiasm for the game, particularly enjoying the movements players use to hide the token. This enthusiasm underscores the importance of nurturing the tradition among young people.

Looking Ahead

This year's adult winners, Rainebow Rich, hope to pass the torch to Selkirk First Nation's Pelly Crossing for next year's tournament. The success of the Carcross event ensures that the Yukon handgames tradition will continue to thrive, bringing communities together in the spirit of competition and cultural celebration.

So, dust off your best guessing skills and maybe start practicing your poker face. It seems the Yukon handgames scene is just getting warmed up!