The Nipigon Elks of the Lakehead Junior Hockey League (LJHL) is excited to announce a team affiliation agreement with the Black Bear Sports Group and specifically the Black Bear Group’s Junior Hockey Teams. These teams include the Maryland Black Bears of the NAHL, Mercer Chiefs (NCDC) as well as Team Maryland (EHL).

“Our team’s association and agreement with the Black Bear Group of Junior teams links our players with an unprecedented opportunity!” reports Malcolm Sutherland, Head Coach and General Manager of the Elks. “Age-eligible players, either graduates from the Nipigon 18U program, our LJHL 18U draft selections and most importantly our returning players will now be eligible to attend hockey evaluations and selection camps with the three Junior Black Bear teams. The incredible experience of showcasing Northern talent at these levels of hockey fits directly into the Nipigon Elks’ program’s new philosophy of player development and enriching athletic experiences.”

Effective immediately, the agreement was facilitated by Sutherland and Keith Primeau. Keith, the former captain of the Philadelphia Flyers and Malcolm have worked together closely in hockey-related programs and multiple events and competitions.

“Black Bear was created and developed to offer opportunities to all hockey players no matter race, ethnicity, background or location,” added Primeau. “Our intention is to offer the game to all those who aspire to improve and climb the competitive ladder. This is a solid relationship for us to continue that message.”

Keith Primeau and Malcolm Sutherland’s work with the StopConcussions Foundation continues. Primeau is also President of Hockey Operations for the Phantoms and a Corporate Member of the Black Bear Group.