FORT PROVIDENCE / WINNIPEG – Table Tennis North is celebrating a historic milestone after Akiko Iwase became the first athlete from the Northwest Territories to win a medal at the Canadian Table Tennis Championships, capturing silver in the Women’s Over 40 Singles event.
The achievement marks a defining moment for table tennis in the Northwest Territories and is a testament to years of dedication, perseverance, and the growing strength of the sport across the territory.
What makes Akiko’s accomplishment even more remarkable is the path she took to the podium. After narrowly losing her opening match 3-2, it would have been easy to let disappointment take over. Instead, she responded with determination, winning every match that followed to guarantee herself a place on the podium before advancing all the way to the championship final.
The silver medal is historic, but it tells only part of the story.
Throughout the championships, Akiko embraced every opportunity to challenge herself, competing not only in the Women’s Over 40 Singles, but also in the Open Women’s Singles and Mixed Doubles events. Every match added to her confidence and experience against some of Canada’s top players while proudly representing the Northwest Territories.
“I would like to thank Thorsten the most for his advice and support at matches. I now truly see the impact of coaching on athletes from an athlete’s point of view, and hopefully I can give back to athletes in the same way.”
“I didn’t realize how much I had missed the high energy of a competition. It brought me right back to my days as a competitive player.”
“Being surrounded by people—athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and supporters—all united by one sport creates an instant sense of connection. It’s something truly special.”
“I had the chance to talk with officials, coaches, and athletes of all ages, and it was such a great experience. I don’t regret coming to Nationals with such wonderful teammates this year. It was an unforgettable weekend.”
The Northwest Territories team included athletes from across the territory, supported by coaches and volunteers who continue to build opportunities for athletes to compete on the national stage.
Darren Woodland of the Yellowknife Table Tennis Club reflected on the team’s performance:
“We trained really hard these past few months and it really showed in the hard played matches. We saw great rallies and some really nice shots against skilled competition. For Team NT the weekend was capped off with a silver medal by Akiko Iwase in Women’s Singles Over 40. Way to go, Aki.”
“NT’s play continues with Kathleen Cai competing in the U15 and U17 events. Go Kathleen!”
“Training will start up again at the Yellowknife Table Tennis Club in September. Looking forward to having more great NT representation at the Canadian Table Tennis Championships in Moncton in 2027. This time with even more wins.”
“Way to go Team NT!”
While Akiko’s silver medal made history, perhaps the greatest achievement was the confidence she built throughout the tournament. From recovering after a difficult opening match to competing fearlessly in multiple events, she demonstrated resilience, determination, and a willingness to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow.
Her success is a milestone not only for herself, but for every athlete in the Northwest Territories. It shows that with commitment, preparation, and support, northern athletes can compete with—and succeed against—the very best in Canada.
Congratulations, Akiko, on making history and inspiring the next generation of table tennis players across the Northwest Territories. Your silver medal is more than a podium finish—it is the beginning of a new chapter for our sport.
