Celebrating Indigenous Excellence in Sports

Located within the iconic Mattamy Athletic Centre (MAC), formerly known as Maple Leafs Gardens, Toronto Metropolitan University’s (TMU) Department of Athletics and Recreation has commissioned an Indigenous mural for the building’s main lobby. Once home to the Toronto Maple Leafs, this historic venue remains a hub for sports and community in Toronto, now home of the TMU Bold.

The mural, a 17’ x 17’ hand-painted tribute to Indigenous culture and TMU’s Indigenous athletics community, will serve as a powerful visual representation of Indigenous presence, excellence, and belonging. Designed to inspire reflection and recognition, the work of art welcomes all who enter the space, while reinforcing TMU’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and inclusion.

On August 25th, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) Department of Athletics and Recreation will be unveiling an Indigenous mural created by Emily Kewageshig, Anishinaabe artist and visual storyteller from Saugeen First Nation.

As special guests, the Armstrong family will be acknowledged in honour of the late George Armstrong, former captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs and an Indigenous Algonquin-Anishinaabe hockey trailblazer whose home ice was the former Maple Leaf Gardens, an iconic, historic sports and entertainment venue, and the original home of the Leafs.

Join us in celebration of the long-standing traditions of sport and physical culture within Indigenous communities, and their continued impact on athletic life at TMU.