Monthly Archives:December 2021

May 5 – Red Dress Day

On May 5, Table Tennis North joins communities across Canada in recognizing National MMIWG2S Awareness Day — also known as Red Dress Day.

This important day honours the thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit, and gender-diverse people. It is a day to reflect, to learn, and to build greater awareness of the systemic violence that continues to impact Indigenous communities across the country.

We are reminded of Call to Action 41 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which called for a national inquiry into the cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls — a call that continues to resonate.

Today, we wear red.
We pause.
We listen.
We commit to action, healing, and respect.

Table Tennis North stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities and honours the voices, the families, and the memories of those we have lost.

Let us each be part of creating a safer, more just future.

#MMIWG2S #RedDressDay #TableTennisNorth #TruthAndReconciliation

Table Tennis in the North continues to reach new heights!

We are thrilled to announce that Shari Olsen, from Fort Smith, has achieved another major milestone, becoming the first Territorial Referee in the Northwest Territories. Already serving as a Territorial Umpire, Shari’s new certification adds another layer of leadership and expertise to the growth of Table Tennis in the North.

In Table Tennis, the referee plays a vital role. As the authority on rule interpretation and tournament management, referees ensure that competitions are run fairly and in accordance with regulations. They oversee umpires, manage draws, supervise eligibility, and make important decisions throughout tournaments. Having someone from the North step into this role shows the incredible momentum and development happening in our Territory.

Reflecting on the accomplishment, Shari shared,

“It is so exciting! lol. It’s another exciting opportunity for Table Tennis to expand in the North, with Northerners forging the path forward.”

We couldn’t agree more. Shari’s achievement not only opens new doors for herself but also paves the way for more Northern representation at major events, including the upcoming 2026 Arctic Winter Games.

Congratulations, Shari! We are proud of you and can’t wait to watch your journey as a Territorial Referee across Canada.

In the North, we understand the true power of community, resilience, and belonging. These aren’t just words, they are the heart of who we are. And they’re also the heart of what the Canada Games have been about for nearly 60 years.

Today, more than ever, Canada needs the Canada Games.

The Canada Games aren’t just a sporting event. They are about unity, bringing Provinces and Territories together from coast to coast to coast. They are about connection, building friendships that span across regions and cultures. They are about resilience, offering athletes a place to rise, to face challenges, and to grow stronger through sport.

Here in the Northwest Territories, we know that every opportunity matters. Whether it’s a young athlete taking their first step onto a national stage, a coach gaining invaluable experience, or a community coming together to cheer, the Canada Games help us dream bigger, work harder, and believe stronger.

It’s about sparking greatness, not just on the podium, but in our schools, our rinks, our recreation centres, and our communities. It’s about investing in the future of sport and leadership. It’s about creating spaces where Northern youth can shine, where they can proudly say: “I belong here.”

From inspiring more than 140,000 volunteers across Canada, to fueling local pride and economic growth with each edition, the Canada Games are a legacy of hope, determination, and unity.

At Table Tennis North, we are proud to support this message. Proud to see our athletes, coaches, and officials take part. Proud to be part of something that brings all of us, no matter where we live, a little closer together.

Because it’s not just about the medals. It’s about the memories, the growth, and the ripple effect of believing in something bigger than ourselves. More than ever, Canada needs the Canada Games. And the North will always be ready to answer that call.

Table Tennis North is proud to celebrate National Volunteer Week, recognizing the invaluable contributions of our dedicated volunteers. We are incredibly fortunate to have so many passionate individuals within our organization, from Board Members and committee members to coaches, officials, and everyone who helps make our events and training camps a success.

This week, we want to shine a spotlight on each of you. Your commitment and hard work are what keep our organization thriving. As we celebrate, we are reminded of the words of Marny Twigge, Vice President Table Tennis North: “Each individual volunteer contribution, big or small, creates momentum and has the power to influence and inspire. Together, we are building a wave of positive change that enhances the well-being and resilience of our communities.”

Thank you, volunteers, for all that you do! Your efforts make a significant difference in the lives of many, and we are grateful for your unwavering support. Let’s continue to work together to promote the love of Table Tennis and foster a vibrant community!

Fort Providence, NT — Table Tennis North is thrilled to announce the official opening of its new Territorial Training Centre, now located at the former curling rink, just behind the Youth Centre.

This new space offers an ideal setting for expanding Table Tennis in the community and across the Territory. With increased room, improved accessibility, and central location, the facility is perfectly positioned to welcome more participants, from beginners to competitive athletes.

The Centre will serve as the home base for the Fort Providence Table Tennis Club and host a variety of training sessions, tournaments, and community events throughout the year.

“This is more than just a training space, it’s a place to grow the sport, build confidence, and bring people together through movement and fun,” said Thorsten Gohl, Executive Director of Table Tennis North.

Table Tennis North extends its heartfelt thanks to the Sport North Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) for their support in making this vision a reality.

Stay tuned for upcoming programming announcements and tournament dates, and don’t forget to drop by for a game!

April 23 marks World Table Tennis Day, and here in the North, we’re not just celebrating — we’re rallying.

Across the Northwest Territories, table tennis isn’t just a sport. It’s a meeting place. It’s a reason to come together. It’s a spark in the middle of winter and a laugh shared across a table, even when it’s minus 40 outside.

This year’s global theme — “Diversity and Inclusion” — feels especially fitting for us in the North. From the smallest communities to growing clubs in regional hubs, Table Tennis North is proud to support programs that make sport accessible, joyful, and deeply rooted in community values. Whether it’s youth trying their first backhand, Elders sharing stories between rallies, or coaches traveling hundreds of kilometers to teach the game — we see what connection really looks like.

This year, we’ve seen table tennis:

• Played on gym floors, school stages, and outdoor slabs in every season
• Used as a tool for mental wellness, youth leadership, and cultural exchange
• Bring together athletes from Fort Good Hope to Fort Smith, building friendships and futures

And today, on World Table Tennis Day, we say thank you. To the players. The volunteers. The community leaders. The parents who drive. The youth who show up early. The Elders who encourage. The teachers who say “yes” to trying something new. You are the heartbeat of this sport in the North.

We may be small in number, but we are mighty in passion.

So wherever you are reading this — in a school, at home, or out on the land — we invite you to grab a paddle, find a table (or make one), and celebrate the power of play.

Happy World Table Tennis Day from all of us at Table Tennis North.
Together, we’re building something beautiful, one rally at a time.

The UCCMS outlines key expectations and standards for creating safe, respectful, and inclusive sport environments. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s inside:

Purpose & Scope

• Establishes a national standard to prevent and address maltreatment in sport.
• Applies to all participants: athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, volunteers, and others.

Core Principles

• Everyone has the right to participate in sport free from abuse, harassment, neglect, and discrimination.
• Emphasizes integrity, safety, fairness, inclusion, and respect.

Prohibited Conduct
The UCCMS defines and prohibits:

• Psychological Maltreatment – including emotional abuse, bullying, and gaslighting.
• Physical Maltreatment – any form of physical violence or neglect.
• Sexual Maltreatment – harassment, abuse, or exploitation of a sexual nature.
• Neglect – failure to meet basic needs of athletes (e.g., medical, nutrition, emotional).
• Grooming & Boundary Transgressions – inappropriate relationships or interactions.
• Discrimination, Harassment & Abuse of Authority – based on race, gender, sexuality, etc.

Responsibilities & Duty to Report

• Every sport organization must implement policies aligned with the UCCMS.
• Participants must report any violations they witness or experience.
• The Independent Sport Integrity Office (OSIC) manages complaints for national-level sport.

Sanctions & Accountability

• Outlines how investigations happen and what sanctions may result.
• Ensures a fair and transparent process for handling complaints.

Education & Prevention

• Encourages training and education as proactive tools.
• Emphasizes the importance of creating cultures of trust and safety.

This summary helps sport leaders and participants quickly understand what the UCCMS stands for and why it matters. For the full document, you can read it here: https://sportintegritycommissioner.ca/sites/default/files/2022-06/UCCMS-v6.0-20220531.pdf

2025–2026 GNWT Youth Funding Streams – What You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of bringing youth together through sport, recreation, leadership, or cultural programming, good news! There are three amazing funding programs available through the Government of the Northwest Territories (MACA), and they’re ready to support your vision.

Whether you’re planning a regional sport gathering, running community programming, or helping young people grow into confident leaders, now’s the time to take action. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what’s available, and how to get started.

1. Regional Youth Sport Events (RYSE)

Let’s get kids moving, learning, and connecting through sport. This fund helps you host regional sport events that bring youth together from multiple communities. Think tournaments, try-it camps, or cross-community training weekends.

Eligible expenses: Travel, accommodation, meals, equipment, facilities, honoraria

Great for: TSOs, rec departments, schools, or regional councils

Deadline: April 26, 2025

Guidelines
Application

2. Youth Contribution Program (YCP)

Sustainable youth programming, built right in your community. This one’s for local and regional groups running ongoing programs for youth, sport, recreation, leadership, wellness, and culture. Weekly programming, seasonal activities, even coaching workshops, this funding helps you do more, consistently.

Eligible expenses: Staffing, supplies, training, facilities, planning

Funding: Up to $10,000

Deadline: May 3, 2025

Guidelines
Application

3. Youth Corps Program

Help youth lead the way, in sport, culture, and community. This is your opportunity to help youth become the leaders they’re meant to be. Youth Corps supports projects focused on leadership, service, and personal development, from traditional skills and mental wellness to community engagement and sport leadership. You can also use this for virtual sessions, youth-led initiatives, or even multi-week mentorship programs. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!

Perfect for: Youth workers, cultural groups, and coaches wanting to do more
Deadline: May 10, 2025

Guidelines
Application

Ready to apply?

•   Make a plan (big or small!)
•   Use the fillable forms linked above
•   Reach out if you need help! (Seriously — I’m always here to brainstorm)

Why This Matters

This isn’t just funding — it’s opportunity. It’s the chance to…

•   Build confidence and connection through play
•   Create safe and welcoming environments
•   Keep youth active, included, and inspired
•   Foster cultural pride and northern resilience
•   Grow your programs in ways that reflect your community’s spirit

Need a letter of support, a quick review, or help telling your story? Let’s chat. You’re not doing this alone.
Let’s make 2025–2026 a year of movement, mentorship, and meaningful memories. We’re in this together, #weareallteamnt.

RBC Training Ground is now open for registration and is set to arrive in Yellowknife this May! This is a fantastic opportunity to discover your potential and elevate your athletic journey.

For all the details and to register, visit the RBC Training Ground website at https://rbctrainingground.ca/ and stay tuned for updates from Sport North. This is your chance to get moving and take your skills to the next level!

If you need assistance or want to sign up, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected]. We’re here to help you connect and stay informed. Plus, we can support small communities in finding funding to ensure everyone has the chance to participate in this incredible event.

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

#RBCTainingGround #AthleteDevelopment #Yellowknife #SportNorth #GetMoving #OpportunityKnocks #TableTennisNorth #weareallteamnt 

Table Tennis North will be hosting its AGM on May 5th, 2025 at 7pm virtually. If you are a member and interested in attending, please send us an e-mail to [email protected].

AGENDA

Call to Order
Approval of Agenda
Treasurer Report
Approval of Financial Statement
Executive Director Report
Nominations & Elections
New Business
Adjournment

Board of Directors nomination form
Proxy form
If you are not a member yet, here is the membership form.