For Immediate Release

SHERWOOD PARK, AB - National Inline Hockey Association - Canada
(NIHA - Canada) is pleased to announce that British Columbia Inline Hockey Association (BCIHA) has become a member of NIHA-Canada. BCIHA joins Manitoba Inline Hockey Association (MIHA) and Hockey Alberta Inline (HAIL) as full members and an Ontario group as affiliate members.

"NIHA-Canada takes great pleasure in announcing BCIHA becoming part of the national association. We are a relatively new association with a strong membership committed to further the growth and development of inline hockey throughout Canada. The inclusion of BCIHA will provide a wealth of knowledge and input to the national body of inline hockey.

Our association is a not-for -profit organization that promotes, fosters and ensures quality and affordable programming for all participants. BCIHA will appoint a member to the board of directors; this person will be responsible in representing their provincial body", commented NIHA-Canada chair, Kevin Sharp.

Recognized by Hockey Canada, Hockey Alberta, Hockey Manitoba, and USA Hockey as the governing body of inline hockey in Canada the NIHA- Canada is excited with the addition of BCIHA.

"The British Columbia Inline Hockey Association is excited to be part of NIHA-Canada.

BCIHA was created from existing BC leagues who have come together to work towards a common goal - growth of in line hockey in British Columbia. As BCIHA enters our next phase of development, we feel that joining NIHA-Canada was the next logical step for us to take. This partnership will allow BC, Alberta and Manitoba to share resources & ideas, cross-promote, and broaden the horizons for in line hockey players everywhere.

We look forward to working with the Alberta and Manitoba groups to take this great sport forward. This group shares the same dedication, ideals and love of in line hockey as do our members", BCIHA spokesperson, Scott Hill stated.

"On behalf of the Hockey Alberta In Line member leagues we are excited to welcome the BCIHA into the growing National Inline Hockey Association-Canada family. We know that with the wealth of knowledge that their membership brings forth it will surely enhance the sport of Inline Hockey across Canada. We also look forward to meeting many new Inline Hockey enthusiasts at the 2004 Canadian National Invitational Championships to be held this summer in Calgary," said NIHA-Canada Alberta representative, Rob Baustad.

"The Manitoba In Line Hockey Association is thrilled to have BCIHA part of NIHA-Canada. Being one of the founding members of NIHA-Canada we had no idea the association would make so much progress this quickly. We look forward to working with BCIHA in the future", explained Manitoba representative, Ken Gregorchuk.

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