Lethbridge College has received a national award for its reconciliation project in its gymnasium. It was awarded the Innovation Award from the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) for its new Indigenous logo on the gym floor and a video unveiling it.
The college was the first member of the CCAA to incorporate Indigenous culture in its gym floor design when it began changes to the facility in 2022.
BACKGROUND: Lethbridge College adds Indigenous art to gym
“What an incredible recognition to receive from the CCAA,” says Todd Caughlin, director of Kodiaks Athletics. “The support from the entire community to make the whole initiative a reality is so appreciated. This isn’t just recognition for the college’s Indigenous Services, Athletics or Marketing and Communication teams. It’s an entire community recognition and only one of many steps to come as we work together to reconnect the land and its people.”
The new design includes the familiar Kodiak bear at the centre, but it is now surrounded by Indigenous images, designs and words, including the word Aikowania, which appears on one side of the court next to the painted drawing of a bear. Aikowania refers to body awareness and movement – the strength, stamina and sharp mind needed to be able to spring into action at a moment’s notice.
Manager of Indigenous Services at the college Lowell Yellow Horn says the project was a reflection of the importance of telling the story of the land. “It captures both the natural beauty of the prairies with mountains in the distance, as well as the gym, shows how the new logo and design bring Blackfoot territory into the gym, and celebrates the body awareness and movement (Aikowania) that are part of the lives of anyone who learns, works or plays at Lethbridge College.”
The award recognizes a member institution that has developed an initiative demonstrating unique marketing, communication or technological advances in its athletic program.