Sports in Canada of Commons amended a bill "to recognize hockey as Canada's Winter Sport and lacrosse as Canada's Summer Sport," although lacrosse is played all year, in all seasons, indoor and outdoors. On May 12, 1994, the "National Sports of Canada Act" came into force with these designations. The modern form of ice hockey began in Canada in the late 19th century, and is widely considered Canada's national pastime, with high levels of participation by children, men and women at various levels of competition. The Stanley Cup, considered the premiere trophy in professional ice hockey, originated in Canada in 1893. Prominent trophies
Sport Canada Sport Canada Sport Canada is a branch of the Department of Canadian Heritage. Its mission is "to enhance opportunities for all Canadians to participate and excel in sport." Sport Canada develops federal sport policy in Canada, provides funding programs in support of sport, and administers special projects related to sport. Funding from Sport Canada is provided through the Athlete Assistance Program, which gives direct financial support to selected national team athletes; the Sport Support Program, which funds national sports organizations; and the Hosting Program, which helps sport organizations to host the Canada Games and international sport events. Sport Canada special