Day makes Varsity team

The first year at the Canadian International Hockey Academy (CIHA) - a boarding school in Rockland, Ontario, specializing in hockey - is off to a nice start for Kahnawake’s Oniehtá:se Day, who is becoming a part of the U16 Varsity team.

“It’s incredibly encouraging for Ta:se’s hockey journey to be off to such a strong start at CIHA,” said his mother, Nadine Diabo.

Even more encouraging? Making the team despite his limited experience playing contact hockey, having spent his time playing minor hockey with the hockey association in Kahnawake, which is non-contact.

“Instead of letting that hold him back, it made him more determined to push forward and grow,” said Diabo.

“It’s a powerful beginning to what I hope will be a long and rewarding path in the sport.”

Before making the Varsity team, Day was in CIHA’s Development Program, which acts as a “springboard” to Varsity, according to the academy’s website.

“To see him rise to the Varsity level so quickly is a true testament to his hard work, determination, and growth. It’s a big achievement, and I couldn’t be happier for him,” said Diabo.

“I’m incredibly proud of Ta:se.”

Along with the new experiences on the ice, Day’s being in school away from Kahnawake has been something new he has adapted to well, Diabo said.

“So far, Ta:se has adjusted really well to his new school. He gets along great with his peers, and his coaches and dorm parents have really taken a liking to him,” said Diabo.

“He’s a kind, easy-going kid, which has made the transition smoother for all of us.”

That being said, everyday life has been a little strange to not have him around the house while he is at CIHA.

“It’s been quite an adjustment for our family. Ta:se was a kid who rarely left our side, so having him away at school five days a week has definitely made an impact. It’s different only seeing him on weekends,” said Diabo.

“But at the same time, we’re all incredibly proud and supportive of his journey. Everyone in the family encourages him, and we know this experience is helping him grow both on and off the ice.”

Diabo said her son’s favourite part of his new school so far has been the sheer amount of hockey training and playing that has been involved. They are on the ice every day, and train often on and off the ice.

“It’s exactly what he was looking for. We’re all so proud of him for making this decision and embracing the experience with such maturity and enthusiasm,” said Diabo.

The U16 Varsity team has played six games so far and currently has a record of 3-2-1.

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