The Vancouver Canucks have unveiled their 2023 First Nations Celebration jersey, to be worn in warmups prior to their game against the Minnesota Wild on Mar. 2.
This year’s uniform was designed by none other than Jay Odjick, an Algonquin artist and a cousin of the recently departed Gino Odjick — a true Canucks legend.
The Canucks said the jersey “weaves elements that honour Gino’s legacy and Jay’s own First Nations heritage.” It uses an altered version of the iconic Flying Skate logo as its crest.
Ethan Bear, who is of Cree ancestry, modeled the uniform for photos posted to the official Canucks social media channels.
Introducing our First Nations Celebration jersey!
Designed by Jay Odjick, cousin of Gino Odjick, the jersey weaves elements that honour Gino’s legacy and Jay’s own First Nations heritage.
We'll wear this jersey during warm up of our First Nations Celebration game on March 2nd.
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) February 23, 2023
The Canucks have worn dozens of special honourary warmup uniforms over the years, but this one might be one of the most special we’ve seen yet.
“The jersey will feature a Thunderbird crest in Algonquin design, representing the strong and powerful protector that Gino was, with a lightning bolt at its heart to symbolize Gino’s passion,” the Canucks said in a statement on their website. “The wings of the Thunderbird will include Coastal Salish design inspiration to honour the First Nations communities of Vancouver and the surrounding areas.
“The jersey will also feature Medicine Wheel shoulder patches, which represent the interconnectedness and balance of all elements of life, with eight feathers to represent the eight seasons Gino played as a Canuck.”
The Canucks have made a limited number of authentic replica jerseys available for sale, priced at $750 CAD, along with a wider selection of related (and much cheaper) merchandise. The team said proceeds from the sale of the First Nations Collection will go to Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations youth programs.
Gino Odjick passed away in Vancouver at age 52 on Jan. 15. He appeared in 605 NHL games with the Canucks, New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers, and Montreal Canadiens during his 12-year career, collecting 64 goals and 137 points; he also skated in 10 games during the Canucks’ run to the 1994 Stanley Cup Final.
