The annual tournament provides an opportunity for U15 (Bantam) and U18-aged Indigenous youth across Canada to compete for the NAHC title.
Teams are selected and representative of each province and territory, with attracts participation from First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples.
[3] The location of the tournament varies every year and hosting rights are determined by a bidding policy put in place by the Aboriginal Sport Circle (ASC).
Following in 2016 the championship was held in Mississauga, Ontario, then in Cowichan, British Columbia in 2017, Membertou, Nova Scotia in 2018, and 2019 in Whitehorse, Yukon.
At the conclusion of the 2023 NAHC in Winnipeg, the Aboriginal Sports Circle (ASC) announced the championships would be held in Alberta for the first time in history, with Grande Prairie named the host city.
[4] The gold medalist in each division is also presented with the Turtle Island Cup, a wooden carved trophy handcrafted by artist Carey Newman.
Hosting rights of this event is a result of a successful bidding process performed by provincial/territorial hockey associations.
Indigenous attire, music and dance are included in this ceremonial moment that ignites the beginning of the Championship.
Additionally, the ceremony often includes an introduction of members of the host committee, special speakers, and VIP guests.