Monthly Archives:July 2024

Quebec City, QC – Team NT Table Tennis made a remarkable debut at the 2024 Canada 55+ Games, with athletes Lesley Paulette from Fort Smith and Mike Pickles from Yellowknife showcasing their skills and representing the Northwest Territories with pride. Their dedication and sportsmanship not only highlighted their individual talents but also brought attention to the potential of athletes from the North.

Lesley Paulette expressed her excitement about the experience, stating, “Competing at the Canada 55+ Games has been an incredible opportunity. I’m proud to represent the Northwest Territories and show what we can achieve. It’s not just about winning; it’s about the camaraderie and the friendships we build along the way.”

Mike Pickles echoed her sentiments, adding, “This experience has been unforgettable. I gave it my all on the table, and I hope I’ve inspired others in our community to get involved in sports. We may be from a small territory, but we have a big heart and a lot of talent.”

This year marked the first time Table Tennis athletes from the Northwest Territories participated in the Canada 55+ Games, and both Paulette and Pickles have set a high standard for future competitors. Their performances have left a lasting impression, and the enthusiasm surrounding their participation suggests that this will not be the last time Team NT takes the stage.

Huge congratulations to Mike for his outstanding performance—bringing home the BRONZE medal in the 55+ Singles event and the GOLD medal in the 55+ Doubles with his amazing partner, Serge Begin.

Looking ahead, the athletes and their supporters are already excited about the next games, scheduled for 2026 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With the momentum gained from this year’s event, Team NT is poised to continue building on their success and inspiring future generations of athletes from the Northwest Territories.

Table Tennis North is excited to announce a comprehensive clinic aimed at educating officials and umpires, set to take place from September 11-14, 2024 in Yellowknife and Fort Providence. This initiative is designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of those involved in officiating table tennis events across the region.

Schedule of Events:

• September 11:
  6-8 PM – Club Umpire Training/Exam in Fort Providence
  This session will cover the essential rules of table tennis, combining theory with practical application. Participants will have the opportunity to take an exam at the end of the training if they wish to certify as club umpires.
• September 12-13:
  9 AM-5 PM – Referee Training/Exam in Fort Providence
  This two-day clinic will provide in-depth training on overseeing, scheduling, and managing table tennis tournaments. Participants can expect 14 hours packed with valuable information and hands-on learning about the intricacies of officiating table tennis events.
• September 14:
  4-6 PM – Territorial Umpire Training/Exam in Yellowknife
  6-8 PM – Club Umpire Training/Exam in Yellowknife
  The final day will include additional training and the opportunity to take the exams for both club and territorial umpire certifications.

The training sessions will be held at the Arcan Facility in Yellowknife and the Territorial Training Centre for Table Tennis in Fort Providence, providing participants with excellent resources and facilities.

To sign up for the clinic, interested individuals are encouraged to send an email to info@tabletennisnorth.ca. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of table tennis officiating and contribute to the growth of the sport in the region.

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to elevate the standards of table tennis officiating in the Northwest Territories!

The 55+ Games in Quebec City are fast approaching, and excitement is building as athletes from the Northwest Territories prepare to join in the competition. Let’s meet two of our dedicated participants who are ready to showcase their skills in table tennis.

Lesley Paulette

This will be Lesley’s first Canada 55+ Games, and she is eager to compete in the 65+ category. “I signed up for the Games because I figured, why not? And if not now, then when?” she shares. Lesley has a deep passion for table tennis, and after a lifetime of caring for others, she sees this as an opportunity to focus on herself. “It keeps me fit and active and challenges me mentally and physically—all good things for someone getting older by the day. I never had a chance to compete before, so when this opportunity came up, I couldn’t let it pass me by.”

Lesley expects the Games to be challenging but filled with fun. She looks forward to sharing the experience with fellow Team NT participants, creating lasting memories together.

Mike Pickles

Mike is also participating in his very first 55+ Games, competing in the 55 age category. When asked why he signed up, he said, “To increase my athletic abilities, make new friends, and to represent the NWT.”

His expectations for the Games are grounded in a philosophy of openness: “My expectations are to assume nothing. I want to fully immerse myself in the Games, embrace any disappointments, and carry the NWT flag with pride!”

Schedule for Our Athletes:

The competition will take place at ExpoCité, and here’s the schedule for our athletes:

Wednesday, August 28th

• 09:00 AM: Michael vs. Bill Pounden (ON) – Table 2
• 10:30 AM: Michael vs. Brian Wurts (ON) – Table 1
• 01:00 PM: Lesley vs. Gloria Lam (ON) – Table 2
• 01:30 PM: Lesley vs. June Wan (ON) – Table 2
• 02:00 PM: Lesley vs. Karen Cambridge (ON) – Table 3
• 03:00 PM: Lesley vs. Weijun Fang (ON) – Table 3

For more information about the event, visit the ExpoCité website: ExpoCité. You can also find the table tennis rules here and follow the results here.

Wishing our Team NT athletes all the best at this event. We know that you will make us proud!

The Canada 55+ Games are just around the corner, set to take place in the vibrant city of Quebec from August 27 to 30, 2024! We are thrilled to announce that three talented athletes from the Northwest Territories will be showcasing their skills in Table Tennis, competing for the coveted titles in this exciting event. The athletes representing the NWT are:

• Roland Laufer
• Lesley Paulette
• Mike Pickles

With a focus on promoting active lifestyles and fostering camaraderie among older adults, the Canada 55+ Games provide a fantastic platform for athletes to demonstrate their talent and passion for sport. Participants can look forward to a thrilling atmosphere filled with friendly competition and the chance to connect with fellow athletes from across the country.

For more information about the event and Table Tennis specifics, visit the official website: Canada 55+ Games – Table Tennis.

Wishing all our NWT athletes an amazing time in Quebec City as they compete and create lasting memories!

The journey of Team NT Table Tennis at the 2024 Canadian Table Tennis Championships was nothing short of remarkable, filled with moments of growth, camaraderie, and success. The team’s adventure kicked off on July 15th with a two-day training camp at the Ottawa Table Tennis Club, where they honed their skills under the guidance of esteemed coaches and dedicated support staff.

Led by Canada Games Coach Bob Howard, Mental Performance Coach Chelsea Currie, and Head Coach Thorsten Gohl, Team NT Table Tennis underwent rigorous training sessions to prepare for the prestigious Canadian Championships. The presence of skilled sparring partner Tony Campbell further elevated the team’s preparation, ensuring they were in peak form for the upcoming competition.

Following the training camp, the team engaged in a blend of fun activities and focused training sessions at the Ly Table Tennis Academy in Montreal, immersing themselves in a holistic preparation regimen that balanced hard work with moments of relaxation and enjoyment.

The Canadian Championships officially commenced on July 19th with the Seniors Competition, setting the stage for an inspiring display of talent and sportsmanship. The tournament provided a valuable learning experience for Team NT’s young athletes, for the first time for the Northwest Territories to participate in this event, showcasing their dedication and resilience in the face of new challenges.

Throughout the competition, the athletes demonstrated a commitment to excellence, focusing on executing successful strokes, refining their techniques, and developing strategic gameplay. Notable achievements included Kevin Canadien’s impressive set win in the U19 singles competition and the commendable performance of Kathleen Cai and Karissa Sadowick, who not only secured victories but also claimed a respectable 5th place in their respective events.

Beyond the competitive arena, Team NT Table Tennis embraced the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie, forging friendships with athletes from other provinces, championing initiatives such as the Equity/Diversity/Inclusion Committee and the Women in Table Tennis campaign, and celebrating the success of their peers.

The 2024 Canadian Championships proved to be an unforgettable experience for all participants, highlighting the dedication, talent, and unity of Team NT Table Tennis. As they look ahead to future events and continued growth in the sport, the team now takes a well-deserved rest before gearing up for the upcoming season in the Fall.

Congratulations to Team NT Table Tennis on a successful and inspiring performance at the 2024 Canadian Championships. Your achievements are a testament to your hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to the sport.

The draw for the highly anticipated 2024 Canadian Championships, hosted in Laval (Quebec) took place virtually on July 11th, 2024, with an impressive turnout of over 50 participants joining in for the drawing of the competition. The event promises to showcase top-tier talent from the Northwest Territories, setting the stage for an exhilarating tournament.

Here is a glimpse of the talented competitors who will be vying for glory in various categories:

Men’s Singles

Gulati, Suhsan (Ontario)
Provencher, David (Quebec)
Gohl, Thorsten (NT)

Osuji, Chijoke (Ontario)
Vaibhav, Agrim (Noval Scotia)
Desbiens, Alexandre (Quebec)
Canadien, Kevin (Northwest Territories)

Ly, Kenny (Quebec)
Chen, Jason (Ontario)
Deshayes, Lois (Quebec)
Sadowick, Carter (Northwest Territories)

Nguyễn, Bao (Quebec)
Santos, Virgilio (New Brunswick)
Li, Zachary Zhihao (Ontario) 
Vandell, Neilson (Northwest Territories)

Women’s Singles

Wang, Yi (Nova Scotia)
Barey-Caron, Sidonie (Quebec)
Zhu, Cindy (Ontario)
Sadowick, Karissa (Northwest Territories

Zhang, Sunny (Ontario)
Lee, Victoria (Manitoba)
Cui, Christina (Quebec)
Cai, Kathleen (Northwest Territories)

Men’s Doubles

Vandell, Neilson / Sadowick, Carter (Northwest Territories)
Yang, Zhichen (Ontario) / Yang, Mike (Ontario)

Women’s Doubles

Cai, Kathleen / Sadowick, Karissa (Northwest Territories)
Pan, Ivy (Alberta) / Zuo, Ding Hao (British Columbia)

Mixed Doubles

Canadien, Kevin / Sadowick, Karissa (Northwest Territories)
Ly, Kenny / Murdanaigum, Nelina (Quebec)

Vandell, Neilson / Cai, Kathleen (Northwest Territories)
Oamri, Abdul Javad / Koroleva, Svetlana (Ontario)

U40

Gohl, Thorsten (Northwest Territories)
Bizri, Marwan (Quebec)
Khadem, Shahriar (Ontario)

El, Mark, Wael (Quebec)
Yang, Mike (Ontario)
Champagne, Martin (Quebec)
Cai, Tommaso (Northwest Territories)

U19 Boys

Zeng, Raymond (Quebec)
Parish, Vedant (Ontario)
Joyal, Didie (Manitoba)
Canadien, Kevin (Northwest Territories) 

U19 Team

Ontario
British Columbia
Manitoba
Canadien, Kevin / Sadowick, Carter (Northwest Territories)

U15 Boys

Guay, Alexandre (Quebec)
Yang, Denis (Ontario)
Wu, Albert (Saskatchewan)
Sadowick, Carter (Northwest Territories)

U15 Girls

Patry, Zoe (Quebec)
Mu, Kathleen (Ontario)
Hector, Thulir (Saskatchewan)
Sadowick, Karissa (Northwest Territories)

Bai, Stephanie (Ontario)
Gao, Jingxi (British Columbia)
Gonzalez, Sara (Quebec)
Cai, Kathleen (Northwest Territories)

U13 Boys

Sun, Jawed (Ontario)
Su, Ethan (British Columbia)
Wang, Aaron (Ontario)
Sadowick, Carter (Northwest Territories)

U13 Girls 

Ning, Duce (Ontario)
Gbadebo, Habhah (Saskatchewan)
Martin, Amaris (New Brunswick
Sadowick, Karissa (Northwest Territories)

Wang, Olivia (Ontario)
Zorila, Alexandra (Quebec)
Zheng, Tonglong (British Columbia)
Cai, Kathleen (Northwest Territories)

U13 Team

Quebec
Saskatchewan
New Brunswick
Cai, Kathleen / Sadowick, Karissa (Northwest Territories)

As the countdown to the championships begins, stay tuned for more information on live streams, scheduling details, and additional updates leading up to the event. Let’s rally behind our Northwest Territories representatives, cheer them on, and show our unwavering support as they compete on the national stage.

Wishing all our athletes from the Northwest Territories a successful and memorable tournament. GO TEAM NT GO!

The Yellowknife, July 5, 2024

The top players from the recent NWT Table Tennis Championships in Fort Providence will soon head south to compete at the national level.

The tournament occurred on Sunday, June 23. It was the first such event in seven years, but it went down as a great success, with about 15 competitors all told, including nine young people from elsewhere in the territory.

“We now have some very young players who are really excited about the sport and we want to just keep them engaged,” said Thorsten Gohl, the head coach of the NWT table tennis team. “We haven’t focused on tournaments because it’s a lot of work, but it seems that people would like to see more.”

Four people won trophies at the tournament. Fort Providence’s Kevin Canadien captured the youth singles category, and Yellowknife’s Akiko Iwase prevailed in the open singles category. The open doubles category was won by Kathleen Cai of Yellowknife and partner Neilson Vandell of Fort Providence.

While the excitement of the Fort Providence tournament is still fresh, a group of five NWT players are already looking ahead to an even bigger challenge.

On July 15, Cai will join Fort Providence’s Vandell, Canadien, Karissa Sadowick and Carter Sadowick for a two-day table tennis training camp in Ottawa. From there, the group will head on to the 2024 Canadian Table Ten- nis Championships, which will run from July 19-24 in Laval, Que.

Gohl said the territory’s athletes are per- forming very well for their level, but the trip to Quebec is more about enriching experiences than it is about bringing home trophies.

“It’s not about table tennis,” he said. “It’s

about creating opportunities and possibilities for our youth to become the best version of themselves. For us to send them to a Canadi- an tournament doesn’t mean that they need to excel and be high-performance athletes, it means that they’re travelling together, they’re building the culture together, they’re doing fundraising together, they’re training together.

“They’ll travel from Ontario to Quebec and then back, making friends there. We have a few mentors that are in Ottawa and from B.C. that are flying in too, so they’re trying to build that little bit of a community. Then hopefully when [the players] come back, they feel empowered and then everybody else that sees them wants to be empowered as well. [We’re] creating that circle of constant reinforcement.”

Gohl and his players have been hard at work fundraising for their journey to Ontario and Quebec. It’s an expensive trip, and progress has been somewhat “slow,” but the group has plans for a bake sale and a 50/50 draw that will add to the total they’ve already raised through their GoFundMe campaign, which is still open for donations.

Whatever happens at the coming tournament in Laval, Gohl hopes the members of Team NWT will enjoy themselves, and that their opportunity will inspire more young residents to get involved in table tennis.

The sport is a great way to keep young peo- ple out of trouble, he emphasized, and it is conveniently accessible, with a table, some paddles, and some balls being all that’s required to get going.

“Sports like this can be done anywhere, in any community,” he said. “For me, it can be the sport of the North, because it’s accessible during summer or winter in any spaces.

“It doesn’t need to be [played on] a profes- sional table, but I think we need to create the excitement around it.”

Team NT Table Tennis is calling on the community to rally behind their fundraising efforts to send four youth athletes to the 2024 Canadian Table Tennis Championships (July 18-24, 2024). The team is seeking support for flights, accommodation, travel, and registration costs to ensure their athletes can compete at the highest level.

To showcase the talent and dedication of their athletes, Team NT Table Tennis has released a video highlighting their journey and the impact of community support. The video serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of backing local athletes in their pursuit of excellence.

GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/119a6517

“We need your help to make this dream a reality for our athletes,” said Thorsten Gohl, Head Coach Team NT Table Tennis. “Your contributions will go a long way in supporting our team and allowing them to focus on their training and performance.”

How can you help? Team NT Table Tennis welcomes any in-kind donations and financial contributions to cover the expenses for their athletes. Additionally, supporters can offer assistance in other ways by reaching out to the team with their ideas and offers of support.

In recognition of donors’ generosity, Team NT Table Tennis will acknowledge contributors through their social media channels and website. Donations exceeding $500 will be rewarded with a personalized fun video during the team’s trip, while donations over $1,000 will receive an exclusive Team NT t-shirt to show their support during the event.

With a fundraising goal of $11,000, Team NT Table Tennis aims to alleviate financial concerns and focus on delivering engaging content to thank their supporters. The team is excited to share their journey with the community and express their gratitude for the outpouring of support.

The Northwest Territories will be proudly represented by the following youth athletes at the Canadian Table Tennis Championships:

• Karissa Sadowick, Fort Providence
• Carter Sadowick, Fort Providence
• Kathleen Cai, Yellowknife
• Neilson Vandell, Fort Providence
• Kevin Canadien, Fort Providence

Under the guidance of Head Coach Thorsten Gohl, the team is gearing up for a transformative experience at the championships. Coach Gohl expressed his enthusiasm for the athletes’ growth and development through this competitive opportunity.

Team NT Table Tennis will kick off their journey with a training camp in Ottawa, followed by a week of intense competition at the Canadian Championships. Two athletes, Kathleen and Karissa, have also been invited to the Female National Training in Quebec City, showcasing the team’s talent and potential on a national stage.

As the team prepares for this exciting chapter, they extend their gratitude to the Mackenzie Recreation Association and Sport North for their support and encouragement. Community members are encouraged to follow Team NT Table Tennis on social media for updates on their journey and to witness the impact of their contributions firsthand.

For more information follow Table Tennis North on Social Media and check our website or send us an e-mail to info@tabletennisnorth.ca. Together, let’s cheer on our local athletes and help them shine on the national stage.

Q&A

Why support this cause!?
Many individuals have a desire to give back to their community or support causes they are passionate about. Donating allows you to make a positive impact and contribute to the greater good. Overall, supporting our athletes financially can be a meaningful and impactful way for individuals to contribute to causes they care about and make a difference in the world.

Can I donate in-kind goods or services instead of money?
Yes, we welcome in-kind donations of goods or services that align with our organization’s needs. Please contact us to discuss potential in-kind donation opportunities.

How will my donation be used?
Your donation will be used to support our youth for accommodation, travel, flights to the Canadian Championships and the registration for the events.

How can I stay updated on the impact of my donation?
We will provide regular updates on Social Media to keep you informed about the impact of your contributions. You can also reach out to us for specific information on how your donation is making a difference.

How can you help? 
Any in kind donation is welcome. Financially, everything will go towards covering the cost for our athletes. Any other ways to support us, let us know. 

How do we recognize you? 
We will mention you, if you like, through our Social Media and Website. If your donations are higher than $500 we can make a fun video for you during our trip. Over $1,000 you get one of our Team NT t-shirts, so you can cheer us on during the event. 

How much do we need?
If we can reach $11,000, then we don’t need to worry about anything and can just focus on fun videos to share with you and thank you for all your support. 

Sport North is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking opportunity for coaches in the Northwest Territories to enhance their skills and expertise through the prestigious Pacific Sport Vancouver Island’s Coaching Academy. With a limited number of virtual seats secured for the upcoming program running from September 2024 to May 2025, Sport North is extending its support to NWT coaches by providing contributory funding to facilitate their participation in this transformative coaching experience.

The Pacific Sport Vancouver Island’s Coaching Academy is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum, expert instructors, and innovative approach to coach development. By offering select virtual seats in this esteemed program, Sport North aims to empower coaches in the Northwest Territories to elevate their coaching game and unlock their full potential.

In addition to securing seats in the Coaching Academy, Sport North is committed to providing financial support to NWT coaches to ensure they can seize this exceptional opportunity for professional growth and advancement. The contributory funding available through Sport North serves as a testament to the organization’s dedication to nurturing coaching talent and fostering excellence in sports leadership.

Coaches in the Northwest Territories are encouraged to seize this outstanding opportunity by expressing their interest to Spider at Sport North by July 15th. Whether you are a novice coach looking to enhance your skills or an experienced mentor seeking to refine your coaching techniques, the Pacific Sport Vancouver Island’s Coaching Academy offers a transformative learning experience that will take your coaching journey to the next level.

Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of a dynamic and supportive coaching community, gain valuable insights from industry experts, and elevate your coaching practice to new heights. Join Sport North in embracing this exciting opportunity to invest in your coaching development and make a lasting impact on the athletes you mentor. Get ready to unlock your coaching potential and embark on a journey of growth, learning, and achievement with the Pacific Sport Vancouver Island’s Coaching Academy.

Spider Jones – coaching@sportnorth.com

As we celebrate Canada Day, we reflect on the history and achievements of our nation. Today, we honor the diverse cultures and communities that make up our country, recognizing the valuable contributions of Indigenous Peoples—First Nations, Inuit, and Métis.

This day offers an opportunity to reflect on our shared history and the path forward. We acknowledge the deep and enduring relationship between Canada and Indigenous communities, and we are committed to reconciliation and healing.

Here are some suggestions for celebrating Canada Day in a way that acknowledges and respects Indigenous communities:

1. Land Acknowledgment: Begin your Canada Day celebration by acknowledging the traditional Indigenous territories on which you are gathered. This is a way to recognize and honor the Indigenous peoples who have stewarded the land for generations.

2. Indigenous Cultural Activities: Incorporate Indigenous cultural activities into your Canada Day celebrations. This could include traditional dances, music performances, storytelling, or art demonstrations. Invite Indigenous artists, performers, or knowledge keepers to share their talents and traditions.

3. Learn and Share Indigenous History: Take the opportunity to learn more about the history, contributions, and resilience of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Share this knowledge with others through conversations, presentations, or educational materials. Understanding the past is crucial for building a better future.

4. Support Indigenous Artists and Businesses: Purchase Indigenous artwork, crafts, or products from Indigenous-owned businesses. This not only supports economic empowerment but also helps promote and preserve Indigenous culture.

5. Participate in Reconciliation Initiatives: Engage in activities that promote reconciliation and bridge the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. This could include attending workshops or events focused on Indigenous rights, supporting initiatives that address social justice issues, or volunteering with organizations working towards reconciliation.

6. Foster Mutual Respect and Understanding: Encourage open and respectful dialogue about Indigenous issues. Engage in conversations that promote understanding, empathy, and awareness of the challenges faced by Indigenous communities. This can help build stronger relationships and foster a more inclusive society.

Remember, celebrating Canada Day with Indigenous relations is not just a one-day event. It is an ongoing commitment to cultivating meaningful relationships, supporting Indigenous rights, and working towards reconciliation throughout the year.

On this Canada Day, let us celebrate our unity while continuing to learn from one another, fostering respect, understanding, and meaningful partnerships. Together, we can build a future rooted in equity, justice, and mutual respect.