NEWS

Table Tennis North’s annual Spirit of the North Award ceremony is a time-honored tradition that celebrates the outstanding contributions of individuals in the Northwest Territories to the sport of Table Tennis. This year, the spotlight shines on three remarkable individuals who have not only excelled in competition but have also dedicated themselves to promoting and nurturing the love for Table Tennis in their communities.

The recipients of this prestigious award have left an indelible mark on the Table Tennis landscape in the NWT, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship, dedication, and passion for the game. Their achievements, both on and off the table, serve as an inspiration to fellow athletes and enthusiasts, showcasing the transformative power of sport in bringing communities together.

Kathleen Cai (Yellowknife): Kathleen’s remarkable achievements as a three-time medalist at the 2024 Arctic Winter Games are a testament to her unwavering dedication to the sport of Table Tennis. Her commitment to showing up for every training session, coupled with her infectious smile, has not only earned her accolades but has also established her as a role model for Team NT. Kathleen’s relentless work ethic, coupled with her desire to constantly better herself, serves as an inspiration to her peers and aspiring athletes alike. Her journey exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance and self-improvement, showcasing her as a shining example of excellence in sportsmanship.

Neilson Vandell (Fort Providence): Neilson Vandell is truly deserving of this award for his unwavering dedication to the sport of Table Tennis. As the driving force behind the Fort Providence Club, he has created a welcoming space for both youth and adults to hone their skills and passion for the game. Neilson’s commitment goes beyond just running tournaments; he has also actively engaged in community outreach programs and provided invaluable support to young athletes at territorial events. His leadership and passion for Table Tennis have not only elevated the sport locally but have also inspired many to pursue their own athletic dreams. Congratulations to Neilson Vandell for his outstanding contributions to the Table Tennis community.

Paul Albert Mendoza (Yellowknife): Paul Albert’s passion for Table Tennis shines through as he graciously accepts this well-deserved award. His unparalleled knowledge of the sport in the Territories sets him apart, but it is his genuine love for the game that truly inspires those around him. Whether he is practicing with a smile on his face, competing in tournaments, or offering unwavering support to his fellow players, Paul’s dedication and sportsmanship are evident in every aspect of his involvement with Table Tennis. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his commitment to sharing his love for the sport makes him a true asset to the Table Tennis community.

While the specific award winners are not listed in this article, their impact and contributions to Table Tennis in the NWT are truly commendable. From representing the territory at the Arctic Winter Games to running table tennis clubs and sharing their love for the sport with others, these individuals have demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing the sport and fostering a culture of excellence in the NWT.

As Table Tennis North extends its heartfelt congratulations to this year’s award recipients, they also express gratitude to the countless individuals who support and champion Table Tennis and sports in general in the Northwest Territories. The collective efforts of coaches, volunteers, officials, and fans play a vital role in nurturing the growth of table tennis and creating opportunities for athletes to thrive and succeed.

The Spirit of the North Award serves as a reminder of the values that define the community in the NWT – integrity, perseverance, and a shared love for the game. It is a testament to the dedication and passion of those who contribute to the sport’s development and success, enriching the lives of individuals and communities across the territory.

As we celebrate the achievements of this year’s award winners and reflect on the impact of their contributions, let us also recognize and appreciate the broader network of individuals who form the backbone of Table Tennis in the NWT. Together, we continue to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and excellence that defines our community and propels us towards a brighter future for the sport in the North.

After a seven-year hiatus, the 2024 NWT Territorial Championships marked a triumphant return, showcasing the talent and dedication of Table Tennis athletes. Hosted at the Territorial Training Centre in Fort Providence, the championships brought together players in the Youth Singles, Open Singles, and Open Doubles divisions for a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship.

This year’s championships, the third edition since the inception of Table Tennis North, provided a platform for athletes to challenge themselves and vie for the prestigious title of Territorial Champions. The competition was fierce, with participants giving their all to claim victory and etch their names in the annals of NWT Table Tennis history.

The 2024 NWT Territorial Champions emerged from a field of talented contenders, showcasing their prowess and determination on the table. The winners in each division are as follows:

• Youth Singles: Kevin Canadien (Fort Providence)
• Open Singles: Akiko Iwase (Yellowknife)
• Open Doubles: Kathleen Cai (Yellowknife) and Neilson Vandell (Fort Providence)

While congratulations are in order for the deserving champions, the true spirit of the championships lies in the collective effort and sportsmanship displayed by all participants. Every athlete who took part in the competition contributed to the success of the event and demonstrated the passion and camaraderie that define the table tennis community in the NWT.

As the curtains close on the 2024 NWT Territorial Championships, anticipation is already building for the next edition in 2025. The success of this year’s event serves as a testament to the resilience and talent of NWT Table Tennis players, setting the stage for even more thrilling competitions and memorable moments in the years to come.

Congratulations to all participants, organizers, and supporters who made the 2024 NWT Territorial Championships a resounding success. Your dedication and passion for the sport have truly shone through, and we look forward to witnessing more exciting matches and inspiring performances in the future.

On June 21, as we observe National Indigenous Peoples Day, we come together to acknowledge and celebrate the rich history, diverse heritage, unwavering resilience, and vibrant cultures of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples across Canada. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring contributions and profound significance of Indigenous communities in shaping the fabric of our nation.

Originally known as National Aboriginal Day, the commemoration was officially established in 1996 by then Governor General of Canada, Roméo LeBlanc, through the Proclamation Declaring June 21 of Each Year as National Aboriginal Day. Since then, this day has been a time to honor and recognize the unique traditions, languages, and customs of Indigenous peoples, while also highlighting their ongoing struggles and triumphs.

For generations, many Indigenous groups and communities have marked June 21 or around that time of year as a day of celebration, coinciding with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. This symbolic date holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, representing renewal, growth, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

As we reflect on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we express our profound gratitude to the Indigenous communities of the Northwest Territories for their enduring stewardship of the land and their gracious hospitality in allowing us to reside, work, play, and thrive on their traditional territories. We recognize and honor the profound contributions of Indigenous peoples, whose traditional knowledge, wisdom, and cultural practices have enriched our lives and communities in immeasurable ways.

On this day of remembrance and celebration, let us reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation, respect, and partnership with Indigenous peoples, as we strive to build a more inclusive, equitable, and harmonious society for all. May National Indigenous Peoples Day serve as a moment of reflection, appreciation, and solidarity with Indigenous communities across Canada.

Table Tennis North is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Mental Performance Coach Chelsea in anticipation of the 2027 Canada Winter Games. This partnership aims to provide athletes & coaches with enhanced opportunities to unlock their full potential, bringing together professionals to achieve the best possible outcomes.

Chelsea will be working closely with coaches and athletes, commencing this June, to establish a strong rapport and understanding before meeting in person at the Training Camp in Ottawa. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as the team prepares for the Canadian Table Tennis Championships, where youth athletes will be competing for the first time.

Based in Ottawa, Ontario, Chelsea serves clients both in-person and virtually across the country, offering a philosophy centered on empowering individuals to define and achieve their own success. With a diverse clientele spanning various sports such as soccer, hockey, figure skating, golf, volleyball, and more, Chelsea specializes in high-performance mindset, confidence building, communication, team culture, leadership development, and gender equity and women/girls empowerment.

The partnership between Table Tennis North and Chelsea signifies a commitment to the growth and development of athletes and coaches in the Northwest Territories. The support and expertise Chelsea brings to the table are poised to elevate the performance and mindset of the team as they gear up for the 2027 Canada Winter Games. Excitement abounds as the collaboration sets the stage for a transformative journey towards excellence in Table Tennis.

“I am thrilled to be working with Table Tennis North! I appreciate any opportunity to work with NWT athletes because the values of hard work, community, and resilience are always so apparent, and aligned with my own. Table Tennis is a sport that has always fascinated me: it requires an immense amount of focused attention, mental resets, deliberate strategy, and delicately refined skills. Being a part of Team North and witnessing the heights of their athletes’ potential will be nothing short of a privilege. Let’s get to work!” – Chelsea

Chelsea currently lives and works out of Ottawa Ontario meeting with clients in person and virtually across the country. Her philosophy is grounded in challenging others to achieve self-defined success. Clientele consists of individuals teams clubs and coaching groups across an array of sports including soccer hockey figure skating golf volleyball and more! Specialities include high performance mindset confidence building communication team culture leadership development as well as gender equity and women/girls empowerment. 

https://coachcurrie.com

June 15th, 2024, marked a historic day in Fort Providence as the first-ever Territorial Club Championships took place, setting a new milestone for the local Table Tennis community. The event, hosted for the first time, was a resounding success, with 13 enthusiastic participants showcasing their skills and sportsmanship at the Territorial Training Centre for Table Tennis.

The day kicked off with the thrilling Open Doubles competition, followed by the competitive Youth Singles matches, and culminated in the highly anticipated Open Singles event. Spectators were treated to a display of exceptional talent and fierce competition, making for an unforgettable day of Table Tennis action in Fort Providence.

Here is the list of winners from the Fort Providence Table Tennis Club Championships:

Doubles
Neilson Vandell / Ian Landry
Carter Sadowick / Kaleb Sabourin
Karissa Sadowick / Conner Landry

Singles Youth
Carter Sadowick
Karissa Sadowick
Kevin Canadien

Singles Open
Neilson Vandell
Carter Sadowick
Karissa Sadowick

In the evening, the festivities continued with a celebratory banquet, featuring a delectable spread generously provided by Big River Service Station. Attendees enjoyed a delightful array of treats while sharing images and stories from the past year, reflecting on memorable moments, and expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the club.

The highlight of the banquet was the presentation of the inaugural awards, recognizing outstanding achievements and contributions within the Fort Providence Table Tennis Club. The awards ceremony served as a fitting tribute to the dedication and passion of the club members, coaches, and supporters who have played a vital role in the growth and success of table tennis in the community.

Awards
Rookie of the Year – Kaleb Sabourin
Best Player of the Year – Neilson Vandell
Sportsmanship Award – Karissa Sadowick
Most Improved Player – Carter Sadowick

As the club looks ahead to another exciting year, preparations are already underway for the upcoming Canadian Championships. The momentum and enthusiasm generated by the Territorial Club Championships will undoubtedly fuel the team as they gear up for the next challenge on the national stage.

Congratulations to all the participants, winners, and organizers of the Fort Providence Table Tennis Club Championships & Banquet. Here’s to another year of camaraderie, competition, and success in the world of Table Tennis!

We are thrilled to share the exciting news that Team NT Arctic Winter Games athletes, Kathleen Cai and Karissa Sadowick, have been chosen to participate in the National Female Training Camp organized by Table Tennis Canada in Quebec City.

The training camp promises days filled with intensive technical training sessions, valuable mentorship opportunities, and engaging activities designed to bring together female athletes from all corners of the country. This event serves as a platform to celebrate the sport of Table Tennis and foster camaraderie among young athletes nationwide.

According to the official announcement on the Table Tennis Canada website (https://ttcanada.ca/national-girls-training-camp-set-to-take-place-in-quebec-city/), the training camp aims to unite youth from diverse backgrounds, showcasing their dedication and talent on a national stage. It is a testament to the hard work and commitment of these young athletes who have earned the opportunity to represent their provinces and territories at this prestigious event.

In a statement regarding the training camp, Table Tennis Canada expressed, “This training camp serves as a celebration of Table Tennis, uniting youth from across the country, spanning from coast to coast to coast. It is a testament to the dedication and talent of young athletes who will gather in Québec City for this important event. A special congratulations is extended to the athletes who have been selected to represent their respective provinces and territories at this training camp. Their hard work and commitment to the sport have earned them this opportunity to come together and connect while showcasing their skills on a national stage.”

We are immensely proud of Kathleen Cai and Karissa Sadowick for their selection to this prestigious training camp and are eagerly anticipating their success and growth as they participate in this wonderful initiative. Their dedication and passion for Table Tennis exemplify the spirit of sportsmanship and excellence that we strive to uphold in Team NT.

We wish Kathleen and Karissa the best of luck at the National Female Training Camp in Quebec City and look forward to witnessing their achievements on the national stage. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey at the training camp!!!

Throughout the month of June, the Table Tennis community in the Northwest Territories is coming together to celebrate the values of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the sport. Beyond mere labels, this movement aims to create a welcoming environment where individuals from all backgrounds can partake in the joy of Table Tennis without fear of judgment or exclusion.

In a region known for its passion for table tennis, the focus is shifting towards fostering a culture of acceptance and unity, where every individual has the opportunity to engage in the sport they love, regardless of their background or identity. The emphasis is on creating a space where differences are embraced, and all players are valued for their unique contributions to the game.

The spirit of inclusivity in table tennis goes beyond representation; it’s about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their race, gender, or background, feels a sense of belonging and empowerment at the table. It’s about breaking down barriers and opening doors for individuals to experience the thrill of the game and the camaraderie that comes with it.

As the Table Tennis community in the Northwest Territories joins hands to champion equity, diversity, and inclusion, the goal is clear: to create a space where every player can find joy, happiness, and a sense of belonging at the table. By embracing the richness of diversity and celebrating the unity that comes from inclusion, table tennis in the NWT is not just a sport—it’s a testament to the power of coming together as one team, united in the love of the game.

The anticipation and excitement is building as the 2024 NWT Territorial Table Tennis Championships are set to take place on June 23rd at the Territorial Training Centre in Fort Providence. This highly anticipated event will feature thrilling competitions in both singles and doubles categories, catering to players of all ages and skill levels.

Sunday, June 23rd, 2024
10am YOUTH singles (born in 2005 or later)
01pm OPEN doubles
03pm OPEN singles

Location: Snowshoe Centre, Fort Providence (1 Mackenzie Drive)
Registration deadline: June 20th, 2024
Sign Up: https://forms.gle/91qZ2SGq8ZJQbq9w8

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

Players and enthusiasts alike are gearing up for a day filled with intense matches, camaraderie, and sportsmanship. The championships promise to showcase the talent and dedication of table tennis players from across the NWT region, providing a platform for friendly competition and skillful displays of the sport.

Mark your calendars and join us at the Territorial Training Centre in Fort Providence for a day of exciting table tennis action on June 23rd. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a passionate spectator, the 2024 NWT Territorial Table Tennis Championships are not to be missed!

Embracing authenticity and leading with courage. Sarah Gallsworthy’s powerful journey towards equity, diversity, and inclusion is a reminder that growth often comes from discomfort. Let’s strive for continuous growth and embrace the transformative power of vulnerability. #Equity #Inclusion #Courage

https://inclusionincorporated.com/the-blog/f/finding-my-place-a-journey-through-pride-equity-and-inclusion?mc_cid=25f1d8863e&mc_eid=979e825159

The Canadian Table Tennis Championships in Montreal are right around the corner and we are getting ready for the event. Deadline to register is this upcoming Monday, June 10th, 2024. Please let me know if you like to participate and join Team NT. 

Updated bulletin:

Please note the exact start and finish dates of the 2024 Canadian Championships:

Senior Championships days

• Thursday 18 July: setting up the equipment in the morning; players can practice as of 3 pm.
• Friday 19, Saturday 20 and Sunday 21: Canadian Senior Championships

Junior Championships days

• Sunday 21 July: start Canadian Junior Championships (+ last rounds of Senior Championships)
• Monday 22, Tuesday 23 and Wednesday 24: Canadian Junior Championships
• Wednesday evening, dismantle of equipment.

Please note the categories for each Championship:

Senior: MS, WS, MD, WD, XD and Seniors Over 40 (new)

Junior:
• Teams: U13, U15 and U19 for boys and girls
• Singles: U11 (new), U13, U15 and U19 for boys and girls
• Optional event if schedule permits: U17 for boys and girls

Our plan for the event will be as follows: 

June 21-24th – Preparation Training Camp in Fort Providence
July 14th – Leaving Yellowknife to Montreal
July 15-16th – Training Camp in 
July 18-21st – Senior Championships (everyone will participate)
July 21-24th – Junior Championships
July 25th – Leaving Montreal to Yellowknife

Senior Championships: https://ttcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Prospectus-2024-Senior-Canadian-Championships.pdf

Junior Championships: https://ttcanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Prospectus-2024-Can.Junior-Championships.pdf

We will have more information in the beginning of next week on booking hotels and travel in Quebec & Ontario. Please let us know by June 9th if you will participate in the Championships and send an e-mail to [email protected].