The recent activities at the Territorial Training Centre at the Snowshoe Centre in Fort Providence have been nothing short of amazing! From dynamic training camps to intense selection events and unforgettable tournaments, we have created countless fun memories together that will last a lifetime.
The camaraderie and spirit displayed by all participants have made this experience truly special. Each event brought its own unique challenges and triumphs, fostering a sense of community and teamwork among athletes, coaches, and supporters alike. The dedication and passion shown by everyone involved have been inspiring, and it’s clear that these moments have left a lasting impact on all of us.
As we reflect on the incredible times shared at the Snowshoe Centre, it’s hard to say goodbye. You will be truly missed! However, the friendships and memories we’ve built will continue to inspire us as we move forward in our respective journeys.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this experience so memorable. Here’s to the future and the many more adventures that await us!
At the heart of Table Tennis North’s powerful initiative is a fundamental belief: every child deserves a chance to flourish, regardless of their background or circumstances. This commitment serves as a vital reminder that we all share a collective responsibility to create a safe and nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.
We strongly believe that Table Tennis is more than just a sport; it is a transformative platform that empowers and inspires young individuals. Through our mentorship programs and efforts to foster a sense of belonging, we aim to make a positive impact on the lives of youth across the Northwest Territories. Together, we can help them build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of community.
Today, on September 30th, we wear orange to remember, reflect, and celebrate resilience. This day is an important opportunity to honor the experiences of Indigenous children and acknowledge the ongoing journey toward healing and reconciliation. By standing together in solidarity, we reinforce our commitment to supporting every child in our community.
We are proud to be part of the Northwest Territories, where we strive to champion the holistic well-being of every child. Their dreams matter, and through the power of table tennis, we can help them realize their potential. Join us in this important mission to uplift and empower the next generation, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to shine!
Table Tennis Canada is excited to announce the launch of our Women in Table Tennis campaign, and we need your help to recognize the incredible women who contribute to our sport in the Northwest Territories! Whether they are administrators, coaches, athletes, or officials, we want to celebrate their achievements and dedication.
Do you know a remarkable female figure in our Table Tennis community who deserves recognition? Perhaps she’s a coach who inspires her players, an official who ensures fair play, an athlete who excels on the national stage, or an administrator who works tirelessly behind the scenes. If so, we want to hear from you!
How to Nominate: Simply fill out the nomination form and send it in. It’s a great opportunity to shine a light on the inspiring women who make our sport thrive.
Let’s come together to honor the contributions of these exceptional individuals and highlight their impact on the Table Tennis community. Your nominations will help us celebrate the incredible women who make our sport shine!
As we approach Truth and Reconciliation Week 2024, communities across the nation are gearing up for a transformative five-day journey dedicated to honoring the rich history and vibrant spirit of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This year’s theme, “Embracing Truth to Action,” invites everyone to engage in meaningful dialogues and take tangible steps toward reconciliation.
The week will feature a variety of interactive workshops designed to educate participants about Indigenous cultures, histories, and the ongoing impacts of colonialism. These sessions aim to foster understanding and empathy, encouraging attendees to reflect on their roles in the reconciliation process.
One of the highlights of the week will be the “Mino-pimatisiwin – The Good Life” youth empowerment gathering. This inspiring event will bring together young leaders from diverse backgrounds to share their stories, experiences, and visions for a reconciled future. Through collaborative activities and discussions, participants will explore ways to empower themselves and their communities, turning understanding into action.
Organizers emphasize the importance of community involvement in this initiative. “Together, we can turn understanding into action,” they state, urging individuals and groups to participate actively in the events planned throughout the week.
Join us in this essential journey of truth and reconciliation, and let’s work together to build a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
For more information and to stay updated on events, follow @nctr_um (Instagram) and visit @nctr.ca (Facebook).
September marked a significant milestone for Table Tennis in the Northwest Territories, as the region focused on enhancing its officiating capabilities. The recent club umpire course and territorial referee clinic saw an impressive turnout, demonstrating the community’s commitment to the sport.
Since 2022, the growth in officiating has been remarkable, with the addition of 16 new club umpires, 2 Territorial umpires, and 2 Territorial referees in training. This influx of officials is a testament to the increasing popularity of table tennis in the area and the dedication of those involved in promoting the sport.
The upcoming season promises to be filled with opportunities for training and development, with numerous tournaments on the horizon. Notably, the Canadian Championships in 2025, set to take place in Richmond, British Columbia, will serve as a key event for our newly trained officials to gain valuable experience.
Looking ahead, there are ambitious plans to further elevate the officiating standards in the Northwest Territories. The goal is to prepare officials for prestigious events such as the 2026 Arctic Winter Games and the 2027 Canada Winter Games, ensuring that the region is well-represented on the national stage.
Joseph Fisher, the facilitator for all the events this September, shared his enthusiasm for the progress made: “The flight from Halifax to Yellowknife was very smooth. On this occasion, my wife travelled with me and would act as a support for the seminar. All hotels in Yellowknife were booked solid and there was “No room at the Inn”. As always Thorsten Gohl had a plan “B”. We would travel the three hours to Fort Providence. A three-hour change in the time zone was not a problem.
During our time in Fort Providence, we were treated like royalty. After a hard day of lessons for the Referee Seminar, we would go to an evening meal with Thorsten who was joined by some friends. We toured along many roads and were delighted to view and take pictures of bison. They were prolific. We saw about 40 at different times, some in small herds and some on their own. We were welcomed with open arms which made us feel like home. The candidates for the referee program passed the exam with flying colors. They were on the pathway to become a certified referee and agreed to submit prepared draws before a tournament to the referee chair of TTCAN.
During one of the lunch hours, I visited the local school and met Principal Terry Sapp. I offered to conduct a “geometry” class for the junior high students. My philosophy, just like in table tennis instruction for officials is “hands-on” and total engagement of the participants. My past profession as a curriculum consultant in mathematics prepared me for such activity.
We travelled to Yellowknife to conduct an umpire seminar for table tennis enthusiasts in and around Yellowknife. They arrived for the seminar and engaged in problem solving, discussion, and meaningful activities. All the candidates were very successful with the exam. Once again, a 100% pass rate.
The future looks bright for the North. The training of officials will stimulate some other Provinces/Territories to engage others at the grassroots level. The North is an example of how to do it. They already have set goals for the future which includes attendance at the Artic Winter Games, the Canada Games 2027, Nationals (Vancouver 2025) and their own events like the school championships.
The North has taken a step forward ahead of many other regions in the country. Congratulations to all.”
As we move forward, the commitment to training and supporting our officials will remain a top priority. With a strong foundation being built, the Northwest Territories is poised to make a significant impact in the world of table tennis.
We look forward to a bright future in the Northwest Territories, where the love for table tennis continues to flourish! And a huge thank you to the Mackenzie Recreation for their continuous support in making events like this happen.
Fort Providence, NT – Table Tennis North is excited to announce the upcoming Team NT Identification (ID) Camps, designed to prepare athletes and coaches for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games and the 2027 Canada Games. These camps will serve as a platform to identify interested participants who aspire to represent Team NT in these prestigious multi-sport events.
The ID camps are not trials; rather, they focus on preparation and skill development. This is a fantastic opportunity for athletes and coaches to engage with Team NT’s coaching staff, enhance their training, and learn more about the multi-sport games.
The first ID camp will take place at the Territorial Training Centre in Fort Providence, with the following schedule:
Friday, September 27 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Training Session
Saturday, September 28 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Training Session 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Training Session 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Training Session
Sunday, September 29 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Training Session
Participants are encouraged to come prepared for an engaging weekend of training. Please bring the following items:
– Water bottle – Indoor shoes – Team NT clothing (if available) – A list of your favourite music – Notebook or tablet for notes – Snacks – Towel
This is a unique chance to connect with fellow athletes, learn from experienced coaches, and prepare for the exciting challenges ahead. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the sport, all interested athletes and coaches are welcome to join.
If you’re interested in participating in the ID camps and learning more about the multi-sport games, don’t hesitate to sign up! We look forward to seeing you in Fort Providence on September 27th for a weekend filled with training, camaraderie, and preparation for the future.
For more information feel free to reach out to [email protected]. Let’s gear up for an exciting journey with Team NT in preparation to the 2026 Arctic Winter Games and 2027 Canada Winter Games.
This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate 10 years of the #ThanksCoach initiative, honoring the incredible contributions of our Table Tennis coaches in the Northwest Territories. These dedicated individuals have played a vital role in supporting our athletes on their journeys to becoming the best versions of themselves, providing them with invaluable opportunities and possibilities.
Over the past decade, our coaches have not only nurtured talent but have also fostered a love for the sport, encouraging athletes to pursue their dreams in Table Tennis and beyond. Their commitment extends beyond the training hall, as they have been instrumental in guiding athletes through multi-sport events, national and international competitions, and community outreach programs.
In addition to celebrating National Coaches Week, this year also marks the anniversary of the Territorial Sport Organization, which shares the same birthday. This dual celebration highlights the importance of coaching in our sports community and the profound impact these mentors have on the lives of our athletes.
A heartfelt #ThanksCoach goes out to all the wonderful individuals who have dedicated their time and energy to support our athletes. Their passion, encouragement, and unwavering belief in their players have made a lasting difference, helping to shape not only skilled competitors but also confident and resilient individuals.
During National Coaches Week, coaches can diversify their coaching knowledge with free or discounted NCCP education. Connect with your local P/TCR, or National Sport Organization to learn more about their National Coaches Week events, or log into the Locker to access the following eLearning modules for free:
September 16: NCCP Coach Initiation in Sport https://coach.ca/module/nccp-coach-initiation-sport September 17: NCCP Creating a Positive Sport Environment https://coach.ca/module/nccp-creating-positive-sport-environment September 18: NCCP Sport Nutrition https://coach.ca/module/nccp-sport-nutrition September 19: NCCP Coaching Athletes with a Disability https://coach.ca/module/nccp-coaching-athletes-disability
As we look to the future, we are excited about the amazing things our coaches will continue to achieve. With their guidance, we are confident that our athletes will reach new heights and create even more memorable experiences in the world of Table Tennis.
Here’s to 10 years of #ThanksCoach and to the remarkable coaches who inspire and uplift our athletes every day! Your contributions are truly appreciated, and we look forward to many more years of success and growth together.
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 [email protected]. 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!
