BY HARPREET PANDHER

EARLIER this month, the Vancouver Canucks held their annual Diwali Skate, welcoming approximately 25 South Asian kids for a special on-ice session.

The hour-long skate was led by an accomplished group of coaches and trainers, including TAPS Hockey Development and UBC Women’s Assistant Coach Partap Sandhu, UBC Women’s Team Assistant Coach Haneet Parhar, UBC Women’s Forward Annalise Wong, and ball hockey legend and hockey trainer Smiter Kaila. Together, they guided the kids through fun drills, skating exercises, and a memorable night on the ice.

Before stepping onto the rink, the participants received a big surprise: a visit from Arshdeep Bains — current Vancouver Canuck, Surrey-born, and a proud representative of Punjabi and South Asian hockey culture. For many of the young skaters, it was a powerful moment to meet a role model who reflects their community, identity, and dreams.

Partway through the session, the excitement level climbed even higher when Fin, the Canucks’ beloved mascot, made an appearance and brought his trademark energy to the ice.

The entire event was a meaningful initiative and an unforgettable experience — blending fun, representation, and inspiration for every child involved. It all took place the night before the official Diwali Game, when the Canucks hosted the Chicago Blackhawks at Rogers Arena.

Photos provided by Harpreet Pandher