Monthly Archives:January 2026

Table Tennis North had a fantastic week at the NWT Teachers’ Conference, sharing movement, laughter, and new ideas with educators from across the territory.

Canadian National Team athlete Ivy Liao joined us as a special guest, bringing her experience, passion, and warmth to every session. As an Aerobic Table Tennis ambassador, Ivy introduced teachers to the concept of combining music, movement, and table tennis in a way that is accessible, inclusive, and fun for all ages. Team NT table tennis athlete Kathleen Cia was also part of the team, supporting each session and helping demonstrate drills and activities throughout the conference.

Together, they helped lead both practical and inspiring sessions that went far beyond simply hitting a ball back and forth.

In addition to the Aerobic Table Tennis workshops, we hosted a community coach course for participants. Teachers had the chance to move through a progression of activities, starting with balloons to build confidence and coordination, then transitioning to table tennis balls and paddles. The focus was on eye hand coordination, fundamental movement skills, simple technical foundations, and creative ways to introduce table tennis in school settings.

The room was filled with smiles as educators experienced firsthand how table tennis can support physical literacy, teamwork, focus, and fun. From playful balloon rallies to more structured skill development, participants left with practical tools they can bring back to their schools and communities.

It was especially powerful to see Ivy and Kathleen share their personal stories and experiences in sport. For many teachers, hearing from a Canadian National Team athlete and a Northern Team NT athlete in the same space reinforced what is possible when opportunity, mentorship, and community come together.

Thank you to everyone who joined us, asked questions, picked up a paddle, and stepped outside their comfort zone. When teachers move, learn, and feel confident, students benefit.

And this week, there was a lot of movement, learning, and smiling happening across the gym floor.

When Canadian National Team athlete Ivy Liao stepped off the plane in Yellowknife around 2 a.m., she was welcomed by something she had never felt before. The cold was immediate and intense. “My first experience stepping out of the plane, I noticed this odd feeling in my nose,” she shared with a smile. “Now I know it was the moisture freezing. It was a very cold welcome to Yellowknife.”

But what stayed with her most was not the temperature. It was the people. “A line that I’ve been saying is that it’s such a cold place, but such a warm community,” Ivy said. “I’ve had the best time here so far and I’m very grateful.”

Ivy, a Pan Am Games medalist from Vancouver, British Columbia and a member of the Canadian National Women’s Table Tennis Team, is visiting the Northwest Territories to support more than just Team NT’s preparation for the Arctic Winter Games. Her days have been filled with training sessions, school visits, and community outreach, sharing the sport of Table Tennis with youth and communities across the region.

Her message is simple and powerful. “Table Tennis has so many benefits, from physical literacy to mental health, to learning strategy, making friends, and giving back to the community,” she explained. “It has really changed my life, and I’m so grateful to be able to come here and share this sport so that others can experience those benefits too.”

In every gym she walks into, that passion shows. Whether she is working with athletes preparing for competition or introducing the sport to students for the very first time, the focus is on connection, confidence, and joy. It is about creating spaces where people feel welcome to try, to move, and to belong.

Her visit is also a reminder that none of this happens alone. Ivy was quick to recognize the many people who make these opportunities possible. “The athletes and coaches are incredible and they’re the stars of the show,” she said. “But there’s so much going on behind the scenes. School administrators providing spaces to train, people organizing funding and logistics, and the whole community supporting Team NT. That’s what makes it all possible, we are all Team NT.”

A special thank you goes to the Mackenzie Recreation Association for their support in helping make this visit happen. Their commitment to outreach, partnerships, and opportunities for youth continues to open doors across the region, allowing moments like these to reach communities, schools, and young athletes who may be discovering sport for the first time.

Over the past days, Ivy has embraced every part of the experience. She has stepped into classrooms and gyms, spoken with students, supported training sessions, and taken the time to connect with anyone who approaches her. In doing so, she has become part of the community, even if just for a short time.

“I think we are all Team NT,” she said. “I was welcomed in right away, even though it’s my first time here.” And that is what this visit is really about. Not just preparing for the Arctic Winter Games, but building relationships, sharing experiences, and creating opportunities for young people to see what is possible.

In every school, every practice, and every conversation, the impact is already being felt. A National Team athlete bringing her story north. Communities opening their doors and hearts in return. A two way exchange built on curiosity, kindness, and a shared belief in the power of sport.

Sometimes recognition comes in unexpected ways.

During a statement at the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly marking National Girls and Women in Sport Day, Minister of Education Caitlin Cleveland spoke about the importance of sport in building confidence, resilience, and opportunity for girls and women across the Territory. In the middle of her remarks, she added a line that quickly made its way through the table tennis community:

“Join the ping-pong team, but watch out for Fort Providence.”

It was lighthearted. It was funny. And it landed exactly where it needed to.

For those involved in Table Tennis in the NWT, especially in Fort Providence, that brief mention was more than a joke. It was a moment of recognition. A signal that the work happening in small gyms and community spaces is being noticed, even in places where sport is usually discussed at a much higher level.

The Fort Providence Table Tennis Club has grown steadily over the past few years, built on consistency, community support, and a welcoming environment where participation matters as much as performance. Athletes of different ages and experience levels train together, learn together, and compete with pride, carrying their community with them whenever they travel.

Table Tennis in the Northwest Territories often flies under the radar. It doesn’t need large facilities or expensive equipment. What it needs are people willing to set up tables, open doors, and create space for others to try. That simplicity has allowed the sport to grow in schools and communities across the Territory, offering an accessible pathway into movement, competition, and confidence.

Hearing Table Tennis referenced on the floor of the Legislative Assembly, especially with a nod to Fort Providence, mattered. Not because of status or credit, but because recognition validates effort. It tells athletes, coaches, and volunteers that what they are building locally has value beyond the walls of the gym.

It also reflects something deeper about sport in the North. Success isn’t only measured by medals or rankings. It’s measured by participation, belonging, and the quiet pride that comes from showing up week after week. A passing comment can reinforce that culture just as much as a formal announcement.

National Girls and Women in Sport Day is about celebrating opportunity and progress. For Table Tennis North, that moment served as a reminder that small communities can make a big impression, and that sport done with care, consistency, and heart does not go unnoticed.

So yes, we smiled. And yes, we’ll take the warning too. Because if there’s one thing Table Tennis in Fort Providence has shown, it’s that when the North picks up a paddle, it’s worth paying attention.

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.

There is something special about wearing your territory on your sleeve. The pride, the connection, the sense of belonging. When you pull on Team NT colours, you are not just wearing apparel, you are carrying the spirit of the North with you.

The #WeAreAllTeamNT store is officially back open and ready for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse.

This is your chance to gear up, show your support, and stand proudly behind our athletes as they prepare to represent the Northwest Territories on the Arctic Winter Games stage.

From parents and grandparents to coaches, volunteers, friends, and fans, Team NT is built by a community that believes in its youth. Every cheer from the stands, every clap after a hard fought match, every moment of encouragement matters. This store is about celebrating that collective spirit. Whether you are heading to Whitehorse or cheering from home, your support travels with our team.

There is also an option for bulk orders, making it easy for teams, schools, clubs, families, and workplaces to show their Team NT pride together.

The store will be open until January 28, 2026, so be sure to get your order in before it closes. Shop the store here: https://store.vbsapparel.ca/arctic_games_trials_store_jan26/shop/home

More information on the #weareallteamnt campaign: https://tabletennisnorth.ca/weareallteamnt/ 

Let’s fill the stands with our colours. Let’s make Whitehorse feel the power of the Northwest Territories. Let’s show our athletes that they never skate, run, shoot, or compete alone. Because when one of us wears Team NT, we all do. #WeAreAllTeamNT

The journey to Whitehorse 2026 is officially underway, and what a journey it has already been.

The Arctic Winter Games Table Tennis trials brought together athletes from across the Northwest Territories for three days of training, competition, fitness testing, and skill development. What stood out most was not only the level of play, but the growth, courage, and commitment shown by every athlete who stepped onto the court.

From the first rally to the final match, athletes pushed themselves, supported one another, and showed just how far they have come. The improvement across the entire group was remarkable. Every athlete arrived ready to learn, ready to compete, and ready to give their best.

That is what Team NT is built on.

Congratulations to the 2026 Team NT Table Tennis Athletes

We are proud to announce the athletes selected to represent Team NT at the 2026 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse.

U18 Boys
Giordano Dacorte, Yellowknife
Cooper White, Yellowknife
First Alternate: Paul Albert Mendoza, Yellowknife

U15 Girls
Kathleen Cai, Yellowknife
Karissa Sadowick, Yellowknife
First Alternate: Madeline Jackson, Fort Good Hope

U15 Boys
Kaleb Sabourin, Fort Providence
Calin Landry, Fort Providence
First Alternate: Isaiah Elleze, Fort Providence

These athletes demonstrated focus, consistency, coachability, and resilience throughout the trials. They earned their place on Team NT through preparation, performance, and a clear commitment to their development.

Proud of Every Athlete Who Took Part

Selection is never easy. The trials process is designed to challenge athletes, build confidence, and create opportunities for growth. We are incredibly proud of every athlete who showed up.

Proud of the courage it takes to compete.
Proud of the discipline it takes to train.
Proud of the respect shown on and off the table.

Every rally mattered. Every effort counted. Every athlete grew. This is how the future of Table Tennis in the Northwest Territories is built.

Thank You to Our Community

A heartfelt thank you to our chaperones who travelled with the athletes, supported them each day, and created a safe and positive environment throughout the week. Your presence made a difference for every athlete. Thank you to all of our volunteers who helped run the event, supported the coaches, managed logistics, and made sure everything ran smoothly. These trials would not be possible without you. Thank you to our coaches, officials, school partners, and families for believing in our athletes and supporting their journey.

The Journey Continues

For our selected athletes, the work now continues as preparation begins for Whitehorse 2026. For every athlete who participated, this is not the end. It is another powerful step forward. The future of Table Tennis in the Northwest Territories is strong. And Team NT is ready.

As we step into a new year, Table Tennis North is filled with excitement, purpose, and gratitude for the growing community that continues to shape our sport across the Northwest Territories.

The first three months of the year will bring several meaningful milestones for our athletes, coaches, and volunteers. We begin the year by hosting the Team NT trials in Yellowknife from January 7–11, 2026, an important opportunity for athletes to challenge themselves, grow, and represent their communities. Shortly after, attention turns to the Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse, Yukon, from March 8–15, 2026, where Team NT athletes will once again showcase northern pride, resilience, and teamwork on a larger stage.

This summer, our athletes will return to the Canadian Championships in July in Winnipeg, Manitoba, marking the second consecutive year of national participation for many. These experiences are not only about results, but about confidence, learning, and belonging in sport.

Closer to home, we’re looking forward to continuing our own event pathway. Club Championships, Territorial Championships, and, later in the year, the School Championships, remain at the heart of what we do. The School Championships, in particular, continue to be one of our most meaningful events, where youth, schools, officials, and volunteers come together in a powerful celebration of sport, growth, and community. We’ll also once again welcome players from near and far to the always anticipated Yellowknife Open.

Beyond competitions, the year ahead includes a strong focus on coach development, community outreach, and expanding access to table tennis throughout the Northwest Territories. Supporting local leaders, growing clubs, and creating welcoming spaces remains central to our work.

Thank you to every athlete, coach, volunteer, family member, partner, and supporter who continues to believe in what we are building together. The year ahead is full of possibility, and we look forward to taking each step together.

Table Tennis North is excited to return to Fort Good Hope for a second TT4ALL community weekend, hosted at Chief T’Selehye School, from January 16–18. Building on the momentum from our first visit, this weekend is designed to bring youth, adults, families, and the wider community together through movement, learning, and friendly competition.

From school programming to community drop-in sessions, skills clinics, and tournaments, the weekend offers something for everyone, whether you are picking up a paddle for the first time or returning to the table with experience.

A Weekend Focused on Community, Confidence, and Connection

TT4ALL events are about more than competition. They create welcoming spaces where people can move, learn, and connect at their own pace. In Fort Good Hope, the focus remains on accessibility, shared experiences, and building lasting opportunities for sport in the community.

All equipment is provided, no prior experience is required, and activities are designed to support youth development while inviting adults to join in as players, supporters, and role models.

Full Weekend Lineup

Thursday and Friday Full Day School Programming
Table Tennis sessions will run throughout the school day at Chief T’Selehye School, supporting physical literacy, coordination, and fun movement for students.

Friday, January 16
Community Table Tennis Night
6:30–8:00 PM Youth Drop-In, ages 12 and up
8:00–9:00 PM Adult Drop-In

Saturday, January 17
Youth Skills Clinic
11:00–12:00 PM Ages 10-14
12:00–1:00 PM Ages 15–17
1:00 PM–2:00 PM Free Play for all youth participants
Afternoon Tournament
3:00 PM Youth Singles Tournament, ages 12–17
4:30 PM Open Doubles Tournament, all ages

Sunday, January 18
10:00 AM Open Singles Tournament, all ages

A welcoming tournament open to youth and adults alike, bringing the weekend to a close around the table.

Open, Inclusive, and Community-Driven

All sessions are open to the community, with equipment provided and activities adapted to meet participants where they are. Prizes and small incentives may be available to encourage participation, especially for youth new to the sport.

This second visit to Fort Good Hope reflects the strength of community partnerships and the shared goal of creating accessible sport opportunities across the Northwest Territories.

Thank You to Our Partners

A heartfelt thank you to Chief T’Selehye School, community leaders, and local supporters for welcoming TT4ALL back to Fort Good Hope. Continued support from funding and recreation partners helps make these weekends possible and meaningful. Thank you MACA (Municipality & Community Affairs) for supporting this trip financially.

Together, we are building more than a weekend of Table Tennis. We are building confidence, connection, and belonging, one rally at a time.

The 2026 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse will take place from March 7 to 15, 2026, and Team NT trials are scheduled for January 7 to 11, 2026. It’s time to rally your athletes, coaches, and communities to be part of Team NT and represent the North on one of the biggest stages for northern sport, culture, and spirit.

Organizer: Table Tennis North
Evaluators: Thorsten Gohl, Akiko Iwase, Neilson Vandell
Referee: Shari Olsen
Venues: William McDonald School, 50 Taylor Rd, Yellowknife (Table Tennis), Racquet Club, 4002 49th Ave, Yellowknife, NT X1A 2N4 (Fitness)

Contact: Thorsten Gohl, thor@tabletennisnorth.ca, (867) 373-2101
Chaperones: Neilson Vandell (Fort Providence), Liz Pope (Fort Good Hope)

Travel Schedule

Participants

Table Tennis U15 – Female (6 youth)
Table Tennis U15 – Male (7 youth)
Table Tennis U18 – Male (4 youth)

Schedule

Thursday, January 8th, 2026
9:30-10:30am U15 Female Training (Fitness)
10:30am-12:30pm U15 Male, U18 Male Training (Fitness)
2-4pm U15 Female, U18 Male Competition
4-7pm U15 Male

Friday, January 9th, 2026
9:30-11am U15 Female Training (Skills)
11am-12:30pm U15 Male, U18 Male Training (Skills)
2-4pm U15 Female, U18 Male Competition
4-7pm U15 Male

Saturday, January 10th, 2026
9:30-11am U15 Female Training (Skills)
11am-12:30pm U15 Male, U18 Male Training (Skills)
2-4pm U15 Female, U18 Male Competition
4-7pm U15 Male

Live Stream

All our competitions will be live streamed on our Facebook page.

Team NT Table Tennis

Coach selection policy
Athlete selection policy
Discipline policy

Team NT Policies and Handbooks

The following documents are available on the Sport North website to help guide your journey:

• Team NT Sport Integrity Policy
• 2026 Arctic Winter Games Team NT Participant Handbook
• 2026 Arctic Winter Games Team NT Participant Eligibility Policy
• 2026 Arctic Winter Games Sport Technical Packages

Table Tennis North will be hosting a Special General Meeting on January 21, 2026 to review and approve our updated by-laws.

This SGM is an important step in strengthening how we govern, support, and protect our table tennis community across the Northwest Territories. The updated by-laws reflect changes to board composition, participant categories, and alignment with Safe Sport requirements, helping ensure clarity, accountability, and transparency as the organization continues to grow.

Good governance is not a checkbox exercise. It is about creating clear structures so athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, and partners know how decisions are made and how everyone is supported. This process has been both reflective and educational, and it reinforces our commitment to doing the work properly and with care.

We would like to sincerely thank MACA and Sport & Law for their guidance and expertise throughout this process. Their support has helped ensure our by-laws align with best practices and current governance standards.

If you are interested in learning more about the proposed changes or participating in the Special General Meeting, please contact us at info@tabletennisnorth.ca.

We look forward to continuing to learn, share, and strengthen the foundation of table tennis in the North, together.