The Niverville Nighthawks have reached a significant milestone in their campaign to build permanent facilities, raising approximately $300,000 during their annual fundraising gala held on March 14, 2026. The sold-out event, which took place at the Niverville Event Centre, drew more than 350 attendees and featured a waiting list, highlighting strong community support for the junior hockey team.
The funds raised at the gala provide a strong start toward the $1.5 million required to construct 8,000 square feet of dedicated space for the team. Since joining the league in 2022, the Nighthawks have operated out of a rented trailer outside the arena. The planned upgrades will include permanent dressing rooms, lounge areas, coaches’ offices, and dedicated medical and training rooms.
The success of the evening was boosted by matching donations from local supporters. Tom Kleysen, a long-time hockey supporter and member of the Nighthawks board, pledged to match funds raised up to $250,000. Additionally, Cameron Rennie of IG Private Wealth Management contributed $25,000 and initiated a matching challenge that was successfully met during the event.
Board President Clarence Braun attributed the growth of the gala to the dedication of local volunteers, including Cara Dowse, Fran Giesbrecht, Heather Wallace, and Jennifer Leoppky. The team currently operates as a non-profit supported by 67 founding members, with fundraising efforts playing a critical role in covering the approximately $1 million needed annually to run the program.
This community support coincides with a historic season for the Nighthawks, who finished the regular season with a league-best 51-6-1 record. The team recently celebrated their first-ever playoff series victory after sweeping the Winkler Flyers and is currently competing in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League semi-finals against the Waywayseecappo Wolverines.
