A colourful procession marched into Takhini Arena to the sound of drumbeats Friday night to officially open the 2015 Kilrich/Northerm Yukon Native Hockey Tournament.

What followed was an emotional tribute to the late Sandi Gleason, an instrumental board member who died of cancer Dec. 24, 2013.

The event was capped by a special performance of the song ‘Like a Drum’ by Yukon singer/songwriter Diyet, while members of the Dakhká Khwáan Dancers twirled and danced along.

Yukon Indian Hockey Association president Jeanie Dendys spoke highly of her friend and former colleague on the tournament board.

“This is a special day for all of us,” she told the large crowd on hand. “We’re here to hold up her memory.

“She was a driving force,” Dendys said of Gleason. “She was our mentor. She was our friend and we’re here to honour her.”

Gleason volunteered to serve on the tournament board for nearly 25 years, Dendys said.

“That’s amazing. Sandi’s leadership and determination carried the event forward ... to showcase our First Nation athleticism, embodied in fair play and good-spirited competition. Well, sometimes good-spirited.”

Dendys also announced that the youth sportsmanship awards – handed out to a deserving player after each youth and jamboree game – has been renamed the Sandi Gleason Spirit Award.

As well, a Sandi Gleason memorial fund has been set up to help players and teams in the advancement of aboriginal sport. Access to the fund is available through www.yiha.ca.

Dendys’ tribute was met with thunderous applause.

Jerseys worn by Yukon Indian Hockey Association members, as well as a number of blankets, were slated to be gifted to the Gleason family following the tournament.

Pastor Andy Nieman spoke a powerful prayer of blessing on the tournament, while Diyet also sang the national anthem during the ceremony.

The 39th annual tournament will take place March 18 to 20, 2016.