Author Archives: TT NORTH

Fort Providence came together today in the most beautiful way. Over one hundred students, families, staff, and community members filled the gym at Deh Gah School to celebrate the incredible achievements of our young table tennis athletes. The room was full of pride, music, laughter, and the smell of tacos and pizza, creating the perfect backdrop for a moment these students will remember for a long time.

Principal Terry Sapp delivered a heartfelt message about the power of showing up, training with purpose, and representing your community with pride. She reminded everyone that every banner hanging on the gym wall began with young athletes who were willing to try, to travel, to compete, and to grow. Today, Fort Providence added a new chapter to that story.

These athletes did not only participate in the NWT School Table Tennis Championships and the Territorial Championships, they excelled. They represented Deh Gah School with confidence, kindness, and teamwork. Their achievements were recognized in front of their whole school, and the applause said everything. This community is proud of them, and they are proud to be from Fort Providence.

School Championships Results for Deh Gah School

Grade 6 Boys

1. Zander Sabourin

Grade 7 Boys

1. Kaleb Sabourin

Grade 8 Boys

1. Calin Landry

Grade 6 to 8 Doubles

1. Kaleb Sabourin and Calin Landry
2. Zander Sabourin and Haven Bonnetrouge
   3. Liam Causa / Olivia Glaser, Deh Gah / St. Joseph

Territorial Championships Results

Youth Singles

1. Kaleb Sabourin
2. Isaiah Elleze
3. Zander Sabourin

Open Singles

1. Neilson Vandell

Doubles

GOLD Neilson Vandell and Isaiah Elleze
BRONZE Kaleb Sabourin and Calin Landry

These results are more than medals. They show what happens when a community supports its youth, when coaches and volunteers believe in them, and when young people discover what they are capable of.

Today’s school celebration gave these athletes a moment to stand tall in front of their families and peers. The cheers, the smiles, and the energy in the room showed exactly why youth sport matters. It builds confidence. It builds belonging. It builds pride in who we are and where we come from.

Fort Providence, your athletes represented you with heart. And you celebrated them with love.

Hosted right after the NWT School Table Tennis Championships, this year’s Territorial Championships brought record numbers of participants and an incredible atmosphere at Weledeh School.

Ten doubles teams, twelve youth athletes, and a strong field in the open singles made this one of our biggest events yet.

Doubles Results

1. Neilson Vandell and Isaiah Elleze — Fort Providence
2. Kathleen Cai and Tommaso Cai — Yellowknife
3. Kaleb Sabourin and Calin Landry — Fort Providence

Youth Singles Results

1. Kaleb Sabourin — Fort Providence
2. Isaiah Elleze — Fort Providence
3. Zander Sabourin — Fort Providence

Open Singles Results

1. Neilson Vandell — Fort Providence
2. Tommaso Cai — Yellowknife
3. Ruel — Yellowknife

So great to see teams coming in from communities across the NWT.

The matches were competitive, exciting, and filled with heart. The Weledeh School gym was the perfect facility for a full day of high energy and great sport. And what a story this year, with Fort Providence’s Neilson Vandell taking both the Open Singles and Open Doubles titles. Not the favourite coming in, but an unforgettable performance that showed grit, courage, and belief.

Already looking forward to the 2026 edition.

last update, November 09, 2025

The countdown is on! 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. Visit the Sport North website and their Facebook page for the latest updates and opportunities to get involved.

Team NT Table Tennis

Coach selection policy
Athlete selection policy
Discipline policy

Team NT Applications Now Open

You can now apply online for the following roles:

• Mission Staff – Be at the heart of the Games! Mission Staff are key to Team NT’s success. This team of dedicated volunteers makes everything run smoothly before, during, and after the Games. They support athletes, coaches, and families every step of the way.
• Registration Information Important dates and details are available now for:
  • Athletes
  • Coaches
  • Chaperones

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

Payments – Scrolll down to the bottom and see the 2026 Arctic Winter Games Territorial Trials Registration Fee link.

Need Support? Contact Your Regional Coordinator

North Slave – Colinda Blondin
Bechoko, Dettah, Ndilo, Gameti, Lutsel K’e, Wekweeti, Whati, Gameti
(867) 392-6803 | Colinda_blondin@gov.nt.ca

Yellowknife – Andrew Gilmour
(613) 217-7122 | Andrew.gilmour@ntssa.ca

South Slave – Kyle Donovan
Fort Smith, Hay River, Enterprise, Fort Providence, Fort Resolution, Kakisa Lake, K’atlodeeche
(867) 445-7791 | Kyle_donovan@gov.nt.ca

Beaufort Delta – Josh McDonald
Aklavik, Fort McPherson, Inuvik, Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, Tsigehtchic, Tuktoyaktuk, Ulukhaktok
(867) 678-8045 ext. 21661 | Josh_mcdonald@gov.nt.ca

Sahtu – Alex Robertson
Colville Lake, Deline, Fort Good Hope, Norman Wells, Tulita
(867) 587-7116 | Alexander_robertson@gov.nt.ca

Dehcho – Nathan McPherson
Fort Liard, Fort Simpson, Jean Marie River, Nahanni Butte, Sambaa K’e, Wrigley
(867) 695-7227 | Nathan_mcpherson@gov.nt.ca

Fort Providence, Northwest Territories – Table Tennis North is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with Aurora Ford for another two years, continuing a strong and meaningful collaboration that supports sport, youth engagement, and community development across the Northwest Territories.

What began as a shared vision for positive impact has grown into a valued relationship rooted in mutual support and northern pride. From supporting local events to ensuring that opportunities reach even the smallest communities, the partnership with Aurora Ford reflects a model of how organizations can come together to create lasting impact.

“We’re proud to continue supporting Table Tennis North and the incredible work they do to engage youth across the territory,” said Lee Cawson, VP of the Aurora Group. “Community partnerships like this are what make the North special, it’s about coming together to create opportunities, encourage participation, and inspire the next generation.”

Through this partnership, both organizations continue to contribute more than just time or resources. They contribute intention, presence, and shared purpose. Whether through transportation support, promotional visibility, or helping to connect people and programs, the partnership with Aurora Ford has helped Table Tennis North reach new corners of the territory.

“Having community minded partners like Aurora Ford makes all the difference,” says Marny Twigge, Vice-President of Table Tennis North. “This relationship is built on more than sponsorship, it’s built on trust, collaboration, and a deep understanding that together we can create opportunities that go far beyond the sport.”

This renewed agreement marks a commitment to growth, not just for Table Tennis North, but for the youth, athletes, coaches, and volunteers who make up the northern sport landscape. From school gymnasiums to community tournaments, the presence of partners like Aurora Ford helps fuel the momentum behind our mission. Empowering youth, one paddle at a time.

As we look ahead to another two years of shared progress, we’re reminded that every great rally starts with a solid serve, and in this case, the serve is partnership. Together, we drive more than sport. We drive possibilities. 

Partner through the Seasons

After years of hosting TT4ALL events across the Northwest Territories, Table Tennis North is thrilled to bring the energy back to Fort Smith for a four-day celebration of connection, movement, and community spirit.

From November 20 to 23, 2025, the Town of Fort Smith will welcome youth, adults, and families to the PWK Gym for a weekend full of fun, learning, and friendly competition. The event includes school programming, community drop-in sessions, a skills clinic, and a weekend tournament with categories for youth, open singles, and doubles.

A Grand Reopening and New Beginnings

Friday evening will mark the grand opening of the Fort Smith Table Tennis Club, featuring dedicated sessions for both youth and adults. It’s a new chapter for the town’s growing interest in Table Tennis, and a chance to bring everyone together around the table, whether picking up a paddle for the first time or returning after years away.

Full Weekend Lineup
• Thursday & Friday Evenings – Community Table Tennis nights for youth (12+) and adults
• Friday – Full-day school programming at PWK
• Saturday Morning – Youth Skills Clinic (ages 12–20), followed by free play
• Saturday Afternoon – Youth Singles Tournament (3 PM) and Open Doubles (3:30 PM)
• Sunday Morning – Open Singles Tournament (10 AM)

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Community Table Tennis Night – Fort Smith Rec Centre Gym
• 5:15–8:15 PM: Youth & Adult Drop-In (as part of Drop-In Sports time)

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21 – PWK Gym
• All Day: PE Class Sessions
• 6:30–8:00 PM: Youth (ages 12+)
• 8:00–9:00 PM: Adults

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 – PWK Gym
Youth Skills Clinic
• 9:00–10:00 AM: Ages 12–14
• 10:00–11:00 AM: Ages 15–17
• 11:00 AM–12:00 PM: Free Play

Community Coaching Course (in parallel)
Register: https://tabletennisnorth.ca/free-table-tennis-community-coaching-course-in-fort-smith

Afternoon Tournament – Adjusted Time
• 3:00 PM: Youth Singles (ages 12–17*)
• 4:30 PM: Open Doubles (all ages)

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23 – PWK Gym
• 10:00 AM: Open Singles (all ages)

All events will take place at PWK Gym, with equipment provided and no experience necessary. There will be prizes and gift cards available to encourage participation, especially from youth who may be new to the sport.

Gratitude to Our Partners

This TT4ALL event would not be possible without the continued support of our funding partners: Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) and the Mackenzie Recreation Association. Their commitment to inclusive and accessible sport opportunities across the territory makes events like this possible.

A heartfelt thank you also goes to the Town of Fort Smith, PWK High School, and especially to Ms. Sarah Nelson and Lesley, whose enthusiasm and coordination are helping bring this event to life.

Together, we are building more than a weekend of sport, we are building community, confidence, and belonging one paddle at a time.

Lest We Forget.

On November 11th, we pause.

Across the North, our communities gather to remember those who served, those who never returned, and those who continue to carry the weight of sacrifice. From elders who share stories of war and survival, to youth who stand in silence at local ceremonies, Remembrance Day reaches us all.

At Table Tennis North, we carry this moment with humility and respect. We remember not only as an organization, but as people connected by movement, memory, and meaning. The echo of a paddle, the stillness before a serve, these moments of presence hold space for reflection.

We honour the courage and the loss.
We honour peace as something to protect.
We honour those who showed up for others, even when it cost them everything.

From Fort Providence to Inuvik, from school gyms to frozen roads, we stand together in remembrance. We will not forget.

Across the Northwest Territories, countless individuals give their time, energy, and hearts to make our communities better. Whether they’re coaching youth sports, preparing meals for elders, organizing cultural events, or helping out in the background when no one’s watching, these volunteers are the quiet champions of the North. Now is your chance to shine a light on them.

The 2025 NWT Outstanding Volunteer Awards recognize exceptional contributions in four categories:
• Youth (under 25)
• Individual (25–54)
• Elder (55+)
• Group

Each territorial award recipient receives $1,000 to donate to an organization of their choice, along with a public thank-you in recognition of their efforts.

If someone in your community deserves to be recognized, you can nominate them in one of two ways:
• Online nomination form: https://www.maca.gov.nt.ca/en/services/outstanding-volunteer-awards
• Downloadable PDF form (to print, mail, or fax): https://www.maca.gov.nt.ca/en/services/outstanding-volunteer-awards

The deadline for nominations is November 26, 2025.

Visit the official website of the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) for more information: https://www.maca.gov.nt.ca/en

Let’s say thank you to the people who never ask for thanks. Nominate someone today.

Fort Smith, NT – Table Tennis North is excited to host a free Community Coaching Course on Saturday, November 23rd from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at PWK High School.

This introductory course is part of the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) and is perfect for anyone looking to get involved in coaching table tennis at the community level. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, volunteer, or athlete ready to give back, this course offers a great opportunity to learn how to lead fun, inclusive, and safe sessions.

No experience necessary, just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Upon completion, participants will receive NCCP recognition and be better prepared to support youth programming across the Northwest Territories.

To register click HERE or learn more, contact Table Tennis North or simply show up on the day. Let’s grow the game together!

Application Deadline: November 17, 2025

The Arctic Winter Games are a powerful celebration of culture, sport, and community across the circumpolar North. Taking place in Whitehorse, Yukon in 2026, this event brings together athletes from across the Northwest Territories and beyond in a unique show of talent, pride, and connection.

Sport North is looking for dedicated volunteer Mission Staff to support Team NT (Northwest Territories) on this journey. Mission Staff are the behind-the-scenes leaders who help make the Games run smoothly. From logistics to team support, they are the primary contacts for sports leading up to, during, and after the Games.

What You Need to Know:
• Deadline to apply: November 17, 2025
• Volunteer role: Travel, accommodations, and meals are provided
• Pre-Games meetings: Held over lunch hours on Dec 11, Jan 22, Feb 5, Feb 19, and Mar 3
• Application includes: Two reference letters and employer leave approval

Apply here & learn more: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/AWGMissionstaff

Team NT is more than athletes and coaches, it’s the community behind them. If you’re ready to support Northern youth, culture, and sport, this is your opportunity to step forward. #weareallteamnt

A familiar sight on northern roads, the Table Tennis North truck, made possible through our valued partnership with Aurora Ford, has become an essential part of our movement, building work across the Northwest Territories.

Captured in a new video that follows the truck through all four seasons, this vehicle tells a powerful story of resilience, community, and the journey of sport. From icy crossings to sunny highways, the Table Tennis North truck has delivered equipment, events, and opportunities to 29 communities and counting.

Whether it’s helping set up a school program, preparing for the Territorial Championships, or simply sparking joy in a youth picking up a paddle for the first time, this truck has become a symbol of connection, not just between communities, but between values.

Our partnership with Aurora Ford is rooted in shared purpose: believing in youth, in access, and in what’s possible when we support each other. This isn’t just sponsorship. It’s a relationship built on trust, action, and showing up, in every season.

We’re incredibly grateful for the ongoing support from Aurora Ford and for the shared vision that keeps us moving forward.

Together, we’re creating movement, one community, one story, one drive at a time.