Author Archives: TT NORTH

In the heart of the Northwest Territories, an athlete named Raine discovered her passion for Table Tennis. It was 2017 when she first participated in the NWT School Table Tennis Championships. Little did she know, this was the beginning of an incredible journey.

To Raine, the gold medals she won were not just symbols of victory, but tokens of her growth, confidence, and knowledge of the game. Each time she held a medal in her hands, she felt a sense of accomplishment and pride that was unparalleled. The sport of table tennis had become more than just a game to her. It was a teacher, instilling in her values of perseverance, resilience, and the importance of never giving up, no matter how hard the challenge.

Over the years, Raine’s dedication and skill earned her numerous accolades. From grade 6 to 12, she consistently won gold in the singles category. In mixed doubles, she was a formidable player, winning either gold or silver throughout the same years. The year 2020 and 2021 were challenging due to the Covid pandemic, but Raine didn’t let it deter her spirit. She came back stronger in 2022 and 2023, winning gold in singles and mixed doubles.

Representing her school, St. Pats, was a matter of immense pride for Raine. She felt a sense of responsibility and joy in contributing positively to her school community. Her achievements were not just her own, but a testament to the support and encouragement she received from her school and her coaches.

As Raine prepares to embark on a new journey to university, she carries with her the lessons and experiences from her table tennis journey. She looks forward to exploring new opportunities in sports and is excited about what the future holds for her.

What does this achievement mean to you?
Playing in the Table Tennis tournaments over the years has increased my confidence and knowledge of the game. When I’ve played Table Tennis, I’ve always felt really accomplished and proud.  

What does sport mean to you?
For me, sports teaches values, allows me to have fun, learn new ways to improve my abilities and meet new athletes from around the country. Sports allows me to push myself to do my best and to never give up when something may be hard to do. 

Tell us about your medals …
I have won gold in the singles category from grade 6-12 and have won either gold or silver in mixed doubles throughout the same years. 

2017- Gold in singles, Mixed Doubles
2018- Gold in singles
Silver Mixed Doubles
2019- Gold in singles
Silver Mixed Doubles
2020/2021- Covid 
2022- Gold in singles 
2023- Gold in singles, Mixed Doubles

What does it mean to represent your school?
Representing my school, St. Pats, gives me a sense of pride by positively contributing to my school community.

What’s next?
I’ll be off to University this fall! I will be getting involved in sports as well as any sport related opportunities that may come available. I’m really excited to see what the future holds for me. 

Raine’s story is a testament to her character. As Thorsten Gohl, the Executive Director of Table Tennis North, rightly said, “Raine is a role model, a leader, and just a wonderful human being. We are proud of you and are looking forward to many amazing things to come to you.”

Raine’s journey is a shining example of how sports can shape a person’s life, teaching them invaluable lessons and helping them grow into better individuals.

Hockey NWT and Table Tennis North have taken a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting environment by coming together to form a joint committee focused on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). 

This collaborative initiative is a testament to their commitment to ensuring that all participants, regardless of their background, feel welcomed, respected, and valued. The committee aims to promote equal opportunities, celebrate diversity, and foster an inclusive culture within both sports. By working together, Hockey NWT and Table Tennis North are setting a precedent for other sporting organizations, demonstrating that unity and collaboration are key to achieving progress in EDI. This joint committee is not just about policy-making, but also about creating a positive change in the sporting community, where everyone can thrive and enjoy the sports they love.

Committee Member Shakita Jensen (she/her), “What I am most excited for is being part of an initiative that aims to diminish barriers and celebrate diversity, making sport a safe and enjoyable environment for all.”

The committee is committed to foster an inclusive and diverse environment within the organizations. It was created for the benefit of all and aims to have representation across the entirety of the NWT. You will see our members at the Arctic Winter Games trials this week, so if you see them say “Hi” to Thorsten, Beverly and Shakita. 

We are always open to welcoming more members who share our values and are passionate about promoting equity and diversity in sports. If you would like to learn more or get involved, please send an email to [email protected] or [email protected]. Our committee is proud of the diversity we have already achieved and will continue to work towards creating an inclusive space for all.

Grateful for another incredible year, and a heartfelt thank you to our amazing funding partner, the NWT & Nunavut Lotteries. Your unwavering support for sports and recreation in the Northwest Territories is truly commendable. Together, we’re making dreams come true and building a stronger, healthier community. #Gratitude #Partnership #SportsForAll #weareallteamnt

We are excited to host a virtual Table Tennis Officials clinic before the highly anticipated Arctic Winter Games (March 10-16, 2024). These virtual sessions aim to educate participants about the rules of Table Tennis, teach them how to officiate at tournaments, and provide them with an opportunity to be part of future Canadian Table Tennis Championships and multi-sport events like the Arctic Winter Games and the Canada Winter Games.

We have meticulously planned six sessions to be held on Tuesdays leading up to the Arctic Winter Games. The sessions are divided into two parts: athlete sessions from 6:30 to 7:00 PM and officials sessions from 7:00 to 8:00 PM. This schedule allowed both athletes and aspiring officials to participate without any conflicts.

The dates for the sessions are as follows: https://forms.gle/L5dRpL2BJHQDVYvs9

December 12
January 9, 23
February 6, 20, 27

Athletes 6:30-7pm
Officials 7-8pm

To learn more about the clinic, interested individuals are encouraged to send an email to the organizers ([email protected]).

Table Tennis Rules

Enthusiasts who are eager to enhance their knowledge and skills in Table Tennis officiating are encouraged to sign up for the sessions. The clinic promises to be an invaluable opportunity for anyone to learn from experienced officials, gain practical insights, and prepare themselves for future tournaments and prestigious events.

As the excitement builds for the upcoming 2024 Arctic Winter Games, we would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the exceptional athletes who have qualified to represent Team Northwest Territories. The recently concluded trial event, held from November 23-26, 2023, showcased an abundance of talent and determination. With great pride, we announce the names of the qualified athletes who will proudly represent our region in Alaska.

The trial event held in November was a testament to the dedication and hard work put in by our athletes. They showcased their skills, resilience, and unwavering commitment to their respective sports. The level of competition was intense, and it was truly inspiring to witness the incredible performances of our athletes.

We are thrilled to announce the names of the talented athletes who have earned their place on Team Northwest Territories for the 2024 Arctic Winter Games.

Juniors

Nihilesh Gohil, Yellowknife
Vital MacKeinzo, Fort Good Hope
Ava Pokiak, Hay River

Juvenille

Dallas Lafferty, Fort Good Hope
Carter Sadowick, Fort Providence
Kathleen Cai, Yellowknife
Karissa Sadowick, Fort Providence

With the qualified athletes ready to embark on their journey to Alaska, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Arctic Winter Games. This prestigious event will not only provide a platform for our athletes to showcase their abilities but also foster camaraderie and sportsmanship among participants from various regions.

As we celebrate the success of our qualified athletes, we extend our warmest congratulations to each of them. Their hard work, determination, and unwavering commitment have earned them a place on Team Northwest Territories for the 2024 Arctic Winter Games. We wish them the best of luck as they prepare to represent our region with pride and passion. Let us rally behind our athletes and show them our unwavering support as they embark on this incredible journey to Alaska.

GO Team NT GO!!!

The 2023/24 NWT School Table Tennis Championships was a remarkable event that saw the participation of 8 schools, with over 120 youth enthusiastically competing.

The Executive Director, Thorsten Gohl, who has had roles in the Olympic Games, world championships, and Canadian championships, expressed his admiration for the NWT School Championships, describing it as “Organized chaos. Students cheer on their classmates next to the tables. High fiving during the rally. Just so beautiful.”

It was particularly heartening to see Fort Good Hope participating for the first time. A special acknowledgment goes to Michel Allard for his commendable support to the youth in the Sahtu Community.

The results of the championships were impressive, reflecting the hard work and dedication of all the participants.

SINGLES

Grade 6 male

1. Kobe White, WMS
2. Emmitt Kincaid, Saint Joseph
3. Kael Enns, WMS

Grade 6 female

1. Karissa Sadowick, Deh Gah 
2. Lukka Nolting, WMS
3. Madeline Jackson, Fort Good Hope

Grade 7 male

1. Carter Sadowick, Deh Gah
2. Cruz Munro, WMS
3. Craig Tracy, WMS

Grade 7 female

1. Kathleen Cai, WMS
2. Emereigh Moffat, WMS
3. Tessa Stewart, WMS

Grade 8 male

1. Owen Bowden, St. Pats
2. Cooper White, WMS
3. Austin Morton, St. Pats

Grade 8 female

1. Lexi Blandford, St. Pats
2. Ana Villegas, St. Pats
3. Emma Rae McBryan, St. Pats

Grade 9 male

1. Aiden Langer, St. Pats
2. Kingston Torinda, St. Pats

Grade 10 male

1. Nathan Lavers, St. Pats
2. Jake Mariano, St. Pats
3. Vital Mackeinzo, Fort Good Hope

Grade 11 male

1. Kai Shimada, St. Pats

Grade 12 male

1. Zachery Mathison, St. Pats
2. Gabe Brost, St. Pats

Grade 12 female

1. Raine Mingo, St. Pats

DOUBLES

High School

1. Gabe Brost / Raine Mingo, St. Pats
2. Aiden Langer / Kingston Torinda, St. Pats
3. Jake Mariano / Paul Mendoza, St. Pats

Middle School

1. Najib Mohammed / Owen Bowden, St. Pats
2. Carter Sadowick/ Kaleb Sabourin, Deh Gah 
3. Craig Tracy/ Jack Lyall, WMS

High School Banner: St. Patricks
Middle School Banner: WMS

The Yellowknifer Newspaper

As we look forward to what 2024 brings, we are hopeful that more athletes will participate, further enhancing the spirit of camaraderie and competition that makes the NWT School Table Tennis Championships such a unique and cherished event.

These years dates will be November 17-18, 2023 hosting the event on a Friday (doubles) and Saturday (singles).

Date: November 17-18, 2023
Time: Friday 5:00-8:00 (doubles), Saturday 10:00-5:00pm (singles)
Cost: $10/player or max $200/school
Location: Weledeh School Gymnasium

Banners/Medals: Banners for Grade 6-8, 9-12. Medals for the category winners, 14 categories for singles (Grade 6-12), 2 categories for doubles (Middle School, High School)

Registration deadline: November 14th, 2023

Q&A
Double division is open for boys/boys, girls/girls or mixed. You choose.
Sign up fee is for singles and doubles together.
No limit for signing up students per school.

Rules of table tennis: https://documents.ittf.sport/sites/default/files/public/2022-02/ITTF_HB_2022_clean_v1_0.pdf

Sign up Sheet: https://tabletennisnorth.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Sign-Up-Sheet-SINGLES.pdf
Sign up Sheet Doubles: https://tabletennisnorth.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Sign-Up-Sheet-DOUBLES.pdf

Deja Vu!!! Yes, we are excited to host a second 2023 Yellowknife Open at St. Patricks Gym. The event will take place on Saturday November 18, 2023 at 6pm. Doors open at 5pm to warm up and getting ready for the competition.

OPEN CATEGORY – anyone can join

There is no fee for the participant. Everyone will have at least 2 matches. It will be a singles event. We ask everyone to bring indoor shoes and a paddle if they have one.

If you have any questions, send us an e-mail to [email protected].

Sign up: https://forms.gle/FCZUGBGaAjQ8KdgK8

Deadline for registration is November 15, 2023 at 11:11pm.

updated October 25, 2023

The highly anticipated 2024 Arctic Winter Games are scheduled to take place from March 10th to March 16th, 2024. This grand event will be hosted in the breathtaking Matanuska-Susitna Valley, also known as the Mat-Su Valley, located in Southcentral Alaska.

#AWG2024 website: https://www.awg2024.org

The Arctic Winter Games (AWG) hold the prestigious title of being the world’s largest circumpolar multi-sport and cultural extravaganza. It serves as a remarkable platform for athletes from various regions of the Arctic to come together and showcase their skills, while fostering a spirit of camaraderie, cultural exchange, and cooperation. The AWG features a diverse range of athletic competitions, including popular international sports as well as traditional Arctic Sports and Dene Games, adding a unique and captivating element to the event.

Location: Territorial Training Centre, Snowshoe Centre, Fort Providence
Date: November 22-26, 2023

Team NT Handbook – Information about the Team NT trials, representing the Northwest Territories and general rules.

Registration – Don’t forget to register for the trails before October 30th, 2023. That includes chaperones, athletes and coaches/managers that will participate in the November and December trials.

Mission Staff – Would you like to become a Mission Staff for the 2024 Arctic Winter Games? Read more about how to get involved and send your application in.

Team NT Selection Policies – Don’t know how to be selected for Team NT in your sport? Here are all the policies for the individual sports that will participate in the 2024 Arctic Winter Games.

Table Tennis Trials Handbook

Age categories

U 15: Males and Females 14 years of age and under as of December 31, 2023
Year of birth: 2009 or later
2 spots for each male and female

U 18: Males and Females 17 years of age or under as of December 31, 2023
Year of birth: 2006 or later
2 spots for each male and female

Unlock your mental potential with Dora Kurimay’s transformative webinars and engagment sessions! Join us for a series of 3 webinars and 6 interactive sessions, designed to enhance your mental performance. These 3 webinars also offer professional development points for the national coach certification program (NCCP). Open to all who are eager to learn more about mental performance, discover the secrets of getting your game face on. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to level up your mindset! 

Webinars

• Get Your Game Face On Like The Pros! The Game Face System (October 23, 2023 – 6pm MT)
• Develop Your Game Face Routine (December 11, 2023 – 6pm MT) 
• Develop Your Healthy Lifestyle Choices (February 5, 2024 – 6pm MT)

October 23, 2023

December 11, 2023

Engagement Sessions

• Why Mind-Body Connection is important? Self-Talk and Body language (November 6, 2023 – 12pm MT)
• How to handle Distractions? Focus, Concentration (November 20, 2023 – 6pm MT)
• What’s your Optimal State (Flow or Zone) when you can perform your best? Breathing and Optimal Energy Level (January 8, 2024 – 12pm MT)
• Why Routines are important? Focus on what you can control (January 22, 2024 – 6pm MT)
• What is Self-Confidence and how to develop it? (February 19, 2024 – 12pm MT)
• How to Visualize My Success? Imagery (March 4, 2024 – 6pm MT)

Engagement sessions with Dora are an incredible opportunity to delve into the world of mental performance. She takes the stage for 15 minutes, sharing her expertise, and then opens up the floor for interactive discussions. It’s a chance to learn, grow, and share your own experiences. Let’s come together, support one another, and unlock our full potential together. Join us for these empowering sessions! #weareallteamnt

Sign up here: https://forms.gle/rpjjuVHiS6EsgEBv6

About Dora

Dora Kurimay is the founder of Dora Kurimay Inc., she provides face-to-face and online coaching services. She is a former European Table Tennis Champion in teams and played for the Hungarian National Teams for six years and was also ranked top 10 in the US. She is an author, speaker, and performance coach based in New York City. She has published ‘My Stories of Mental Toughness On and Off the Table‘, and ‘Get Your Game Face On Like The Pros!‘ Get Your Game Face On Book and Workbook.

She has contributed to Clinical Sports Psychiatry: An International Perspective and the Journal of Human Kinetics. She is also a speaker. She has run workshops for athletes, coaches, students, and professionals on a wide range of topics (motivation, stress management, mental toughness, individual differences, winning attitude, goal setting, and pre-performance rituals) in the US, Europe, and Asia. She has an MA Degree in Psychology and Sport Psychology. She is an adjunct faculty at John F. Kennedy University (National University), where she supervises sport psychology students’ internship fieldwork and is the chair of the USATT Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee. She has coached table tennis in California and New York since 2007. 

www.dorakurimay.com