Behind every elite athlete is a community that believes in them, and sometimes, that community stretches across the country.
As Ivy Liao, a Vancouver based National Team athlete, prepares to represent Team Canada at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany (July 28 – August 8, 2025), she does so with the support of a unique and values driven partnership between Table Tennis North and the Richmond Olympic Oval.
While Ivy trains at the Oval in preparation for international competition, she’s also giving back, serving as a mentor for youth in the Northwest Territories through Table Tennis North. It’s a beautiful cycle of empowerment. Ivy receives high-performance support from one of Canada’s premier facilities, and in turn, shares her experience and encouragement with young players who may one day follow in her footsteps.
“This partnership reflects the kind of sport ecosystem we want to see in Canada,” says Thorsten Gohl, Executive Director of Table Tennis North. “It’s about lifting each other up, creating conditions for our national athletes to thrive, while making space for youth to feel seen and supported.”
Mentorship programs like this do more than inspire. They break isolation, build confidence, and connect players across regions and generations. For Ivy, it’s a chance to be a visible role model. For the youth she supports, it’s a reminder that excellence is possible, no matter where you live. The Richmond Olympic Oval plays a critical role in this story. By providing Ivy with the resources and space to train, they’re not only helping her reach her goals, they’re helping build the future of Table Tennis in Canada.
“It has been such an incredible journey to grow as an athlete with the Oval’s support, while connecting with youth in the Northwest Territories as a mentor. I’m so grateful for the support I’ve received, and it means a lot to also play a role in empowering and inspiring younger athletes. I’m looking forward to competing alongside my teammates at the World University Games and will do my best to make Canada proud!” – Ivy Liao
As Ivy steps onto the global stage at the FISU Games, she carries the strength of partnership, the power of community, and the belief that when we support each other, everyone rises. Table Tennis North is proud to stand alongside Ivy, and the Richmond Olympic Oval in championing a model of sport that values both excellence and connection. Good luck, Ivy!