With less than 50 days until the 2026 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse, Team NT’s Table Tennis athletes and alternates had the chance to connect with Canadian National Team athlete Ivy Liao in a virtual mentorship session focused on preparation, mindset, and what it means to compete on a big stage.
Ivy opened the session by introducing herself and sharing recent updates from her season, including the national team schedule and the road toward upcoming international events. She spoke honestly about the realities of being a high performance athlete, from travel demands to limited resources, and reminded everyone that sport is also about connection. In her words, some of the most meaningful moments at tournaments come from the friendships and experiences that happen off the table.
Naming the feelings that come with big events
A major focus of the conversation was the emotional side of competition. Ivy invited athletes to reflect on what they are feeling as the Games get closer, excitement, nerves, intimidation, pride, and everything in between. She shared that these emotions are normal, even for experienced athletes, and that learning how to manage them is part of becoming a stronger competitor.
Ivy drew from her own experiences at major multisport events, including the Canada Games, Pan American Games, and World University Games. She spoke about the unique energy of these events, competing in new environments, performing in front of unfamiliar audiences, and being surrounded by athletes from many different sports. She also shared a memorable story of an athlete who still spoke about their Arctic Winter Games experience decades later, a reminder that these moments stay with people for life.
Process goals, not pressure
As the session moved toward practical preparation, Ivy emphasized the importance of focusing on what athletes can control. Rather than putting all attention on outcomes, she encouraged Team NT to set clear process goals, small, realistic actions that athletes can work on every day.
That includes preparation across multiple areas:
- Physical readiness, including fitness, recovery, sleep, hydration
- Technical and tactical focus, including strengths, weaknesses, and game plans
- Mental preparation, including managing nerves and staying grounded in routines
The message was simple and powerful. Big events bring noise and attention, but athletes perform best when they stay connected to their own habits, routines, and controllable actions.
Ivy is coming North
The session also confirmed exciting next steps. Ivy will travel to the Northwest Territories in mid February to work with Team NT in person for more than a week, including joining the first weekend session with the team and coaches. Athletes were encouraged to prepare specific technical and tactical questions ahead of her visit so they can get targeted coaching and feedback while she is here.
A strong example of mentorship in action
This mentorship session was a reminder of what makes Arctic Winter Games preparation so special. It is not only about training, it is about learning how to handle pressure, building confidence, and growing as athletes and humans.
Team NT is grateful to Ivy Liao for sharing her time, experience, and encouragement. The countdown continues, and this is the part of the journey where preparation becomes belief.
