“We are very excited that communities in Kings County will host the games for the first time in close to 30 years,” said Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, Elmer MacFadyen. “These games are an excellent training opportunity for Island athletes. The communities involved are very excited about hosting the games and are looking forward to having the athletes/coaches and spectators visit their area during the weekend.”

The host committee which includes a group of dedicated volunteers representing the participating communities in Kings County has been working to ensure that the games are a success for everyone involved.

To date, the following sports have confirmed entry in the PEI Mutual Provincial Winter Games: Badminton, Basketball, Curling, Hockey (Men’s and Women’s), Judo, Karate, Indoor Soccer, Synchronized Swimming, Table Tennis, Volleyball (Men’s and Women’s ), Cross Country Skiing and Squash.

“I would like to wish the host committee the very best as they complete plans for next month’s Provincial Winter Games. I would also like to acknowledge the contribution of Sport PEI and the important role they play in the development and operations of the Provincial Games, ” said Minister MacFadyen. “Thank you to the many sponsors and volunteers for their support in making this event possible. I encourage all Islanders to visit Kings County during the games and watch some of the Island’s best young athletes in action.”

The Provincial Games is an opportunity to profile sport as well as assisting Provincial Sport Organizations in identifying potential athletes for Canada Games.

Opening Ceremonies for the games will be held on Saturday morning February 12, 2005 at the Three Rivers Sportsplex in Georgetown at 9 a.m.

PEI Mutual and the Provincial Government are major sponsors for the 2005 Provincial Winter Games.