08/25/2026
This partnership is personal.
Long before the first youth walked into the Pacific Youth Basketball & Wellness Summit, I knew I wanted our coaches to wear something that represented more than a logo.
I wanted apparel created with purpose—apparel connected to identity, resilience, leadership and the belief that we are all capable of becoming more.
That is why I reached out to my friend Erica McLean, the Gitxsan woman behind SKANII Athletics — .erica.McLean
SKANII is an Indigenous- and woman-owned brand built from Erica’s story, her strength and her determination to show her children—and everyone watching—what is possible when you believe in your voice and keep moving forward.
Erica didn’t simply provide apparel for our coaching team. She travelled to Tofino with her mom and her son and became part of the Summit with us.
Three generations of one family came together to support an experience centred on youth, culture, wellness, mentorship and legacy. That meant something.
Our coaches wore SKANII while teaching, encouraging and building relationships with young people throughout the Summit. The quality of the apparel was exactly what we hoped for—but the story behind it was why this partnership truly belonged here.
Erica, thank you for being my friend, for believing in this vision and for bringing your family, your leadership and your heart into this experience.
We are incredibly proud to recognize SKANII Athletics as the Coaches Apparel & Leadership Partner of the Pacific Youth Basketball & Wellness Summit.
This wasn’t simply apparel.
It was purpose worn proudly.
Hamiyaa, my friend. 🧡
