Table Tennis North and Hockey Northwest Territories (NWT) are making waves in the world of sports by leading the charge for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Their innovative initiatives have caught the attention of Canadian Women & Sport, shining a spotlight on their efforts to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all athletes and participants.

In a recent feature in the Canadian Women & Sport newsletter, Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT were highlighted for their commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in sport. One of the standout initiatives mentioned was the development of Pronoun Pins by Hockey NWT in 2022, a creative way to foster inclusivity and acceptance within the sporting community.

At both the 2023 Arctic Winter Games and Canada Winter Games, coaches from Hockey NWT proudly wore Pronoun Pins, sending a powerful message of inclusivity and respect for all individuals. Inspired by this impactful gesture, Hockey NWT used their $1,000 honorarium from the Same Game Challenge to collaborate with Table Tennis North and establish an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Committee in December 2023.

Thorsten Gohl, a member of the EDI Committee, shared, “Coaches at both Hockey NWT and Table Tennis North will wear Pronoun Pins at the upcoming 2024 Arctic Winter Games. We ask them to be role models, showcase the importance of inclusion, and make everyone within the team and others welcome to the sports they represent.”

The 2024 Arctic Winter Games, set to take place in Mat-Su Borough, Alaska from March 10-16, will serve as a platform for these organizations to demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in sport. Through their actions and initiatives, Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT are setting a powerful example for the sporting community, emphasizing the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants.

As we look ahead to the 2024 Arctic Winter Games, let us celebrate the efforts of Table Tennis North and Hockey NWT in championing diversity and inclusion in sport. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to participate and excel.

#TableTennisNorth #HockeyNWT #DiversityandInclusion #ArcticWinterGames

In a proactive move towards fostering inclusivity and creating a safe and welcoming environment for all participants, we are proud to announce our commitment to using inclusive language in all our communications. Recognizing that pronouns are an integral part of someone’s gender expression and identity, we understand the importance of respecting and acknowledging individuals for who they authentically are.

As coaches, mentors, and role models, the language we use and the questions we ask play a significant role in shaping the experiences of those in our programs. We believe that by embracing inclusive language practices, we can enhance the quality of interactions and create a more supportive and inclusive sport environment for all.

In line with our commitment to inclusivity, our coaches at the 2024 Arctic Winter Games will be wearing specially crafted Gender Pronouns pins. These unique pins feature pronouns burned into wood sourced from birch trees native to the Northwest Territories, symbolizing our connection to the region and our dedication to promoting inclusivity in sport. The birch wood used in the pins has been carefully dried for two years, reflecting the time and care invested in creating these meaningful symbols of respect and acceptance.

This initiative is just one of the many steps we are taking towards fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity in sport. By wearing these Gender Pronouns pins, our coaches aim to show their support for gender diversity and create a more inclusive and affirming space for all participants at the Arctic Winter Games.

We invite all participants, supporters, and stakeholders to join us in championing inclusivity and celebrating the diversity that enriches our sporting community. Together, let us continue to strive for a more inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves.

Join us in this important journey towards inclusion in sport, and let’s make the 2024 Arctic Winter Games a truly inclusive and affirming experience for all. Together, we can create positive change and build a more inclusive future for sports and beyond.

Get ready to dive into the excitement of the Arctic Winter Games!!! From cheering on your favorite athletes to exploring Alaska and following the live stream, this page has everything you need. Bookmark now for the latest updates and more! #ArcticWinterGames #AlaskaAdventures #weareallteamnt

RESULTS – Visit this site for up to date medal standings and results. 

LIVE STREAM – Enjoy free access to the live stream and show your support from afar. Let’s make some noise for our champions!

2024 Mat Su Arctic Winter Games
Website: https://www.awg2024.org/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@awg2024 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awg2024/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AWG2024 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/awg2024 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzCU-QiJSw0txQnAWJggmVw 

@awg2024 #awg2024 #riseup #flynorth #risingstrong

ULU NEWS – Stay informed with Ulu News, your go-to source for all things Arctic Winter Games.

SPORTS – From alpine skiing to wresling, all the thrilling sports of the Arctic Winter Games are right here on display.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS – Stay in the loop and never miss an event at the Arctic Winter Games.

SPORT SCHEDULE – This schedule is packed with thrilling sporting events at the Arctic Winter Games! Get ready for an amazing week of competition and camaraderie.

TICKETS – Find your tickets now and experience the ultimate winter sports extravaganza.

The animal ambassador for the games is the Chickadee. It will serve as the animal ambassador for the 2024 Mat-Su Arctic Winter Games. After a collaborative process with robust community input, as the Host Society we’ve opted out of the typical sports “mascot” program in favor of a new, more reverent representation of our animal and the spirit of the Games.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT – We would like to acknowledge that the Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games are taking place on the ancestral land of the Dena’ina and Ahtna Dene who have stewarded this area of Benteh and Nuutah for thousands of years. Our community thrives thanks to their continued sharing of vision, wisdom, values, and leadership. We offer our respect to their Elders past and present and to current Tribal leaders.

THE MAT-SU VALLEY – A map of the Mat-Su Valley, including all events and sports. 

Join us for an exciting event at the Snowking Castle, where you can meet our talented team of Table Tennis athletes and engage in friendly matches that promise fun and excitement for all participants. Whether you’re a seasoned player looking for a challenge or a newcomer eager to try your hand at the sport, our team welcomes you to join us for a day of camaraderie and competition.

Mark your calendars for Friday, March 8th and Tuesday, March 19th, starting at 3 PM, as we invite you to test your skills against our skilled athletes and experience the thrill of Table Tennis in the unique setting of the Snowking Castle. This event promises to be a memorable occasion filled with friendly competition, laughter, and the joy of playing the beloved sport of Table Tennis.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Date: Friday, March 8 & Tuesday, March 19
Time: 3-5 PM
Location: Snowking Castle, Yellowknife

Come one, come all, and let the games begin!

The “We Are All Team NT campaign has emerged as a powerful initiative aimed at shining a spotlight on the unsung heroes who play a crucial role in supporting our Team NT athletes. This campaign recognizes that the success of our athletes is not solely the result of their individual hard work and dedication but is also a testament to the unwavering support provided by a dedicated group of individuals.

From parents and recreation staff to zamboni drivers, teachers, administrators, and many others, these unsung champions work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that our athletes have the necessary resources, guidance, and encouragement to excel in their respective sports. Their selfless contributions to the growth and development of our athletes deserve to be celebrated and acknowledged.

As part of the campaign, all videos showcasing the stories and contributions of these unsung heroes will be hosted on a dedicated platform, providing a platform to showcase their invaluable work and dedication. The campaign serves as a poignant reminder that achieving greatness requires a collective effort and that every member of our community has a role to play in supporting our athletes’ dreams and aspirations.

To further highlight the campaign and show appreciation for those who support sport and recreation in the NWT, Badminton NT, Table Tennis North, and Hockey NWT have introduced wristbands as a symbol of unity and gratitude. Participants in the campaign will be wearing these wristbands, and if you see one, they may have an extra wristband available for you. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to say “thank you” to those who contribute to the success and growth of sports and recreation in the Northwest Territories.

The “We Are All Team NT” campaign embodies the spirit of unity, gratitude, and community support, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the unsung heroes who play a vital role in the success of our athletes. Together, let us stand united in honoring and appreciating the dedication and contributions of these individuals who make Team NT a shining example of teamwork and community spirit.

Together, #weareallteamnt!!!

The spirit of camaraderie and inspiration knows no bounds as Canadian National Team athlete Ivy Liao shares a heartfelt message with athletes gearing up for the 2024 Arctic Winter Games. Despite being miles away in Busan at the World Team Table Tennis Championships, Ivy Liao’s words of encouragement and support resonate with the athletes preparing to represent their regions at the upcoming games. As a member of the Canadian National Team, Ivy Liao embodies the spirit of excellence and determination, serving as a role model for aspiring athletes and a source of inspiration for all.

As athletes from across the Northwest Territories prepare to showcase their skills and sportsmanship at the Arctic Winter Games, Ivy’s message serves as a beacon of motivation and encouragement. The 2024 Arctic Winter Games are not just a platform for competition but also a celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork, and the unwavering spirit of athletes from diverse backgrounds.

As we look forward to the 2024 Arctic Winter Games, let us carry Ivy’s message in our hearts and minds, drawing inspiration from her words and embodying the spirit of teamwork, perseverance, and excellence in all our endeavours.

TeamSpirit #ArcticWinterGames2024 #TableTennisCanada #TeamCanada #Inspiration

Excitement is in the air as the Table Tennis 4 All (TT4ALL) program gears up to launch its initiative in the Sahtu region, thanks to the generous support of Sport Canada and Table Tennis Canada. This collaborative effort aims to bring the joy of Table Tennis to communities in the North, fostering a love for the sport and providing valuable training opportunities for aspiring athletes.

The program will kick off with training sessions alongside Arctic Winter Games athletes in Fort Good Hope, offering participants a unique chance to learn from and train with elite players in the region. Following this, a Table Tennis Festival will be held in Norman Wells, inviting communities from across the region to come together for a fun-filled event celebrating the sport.

In addition to engaging with students in schools and hosting community sessions, the program will also offer a National Coach certification community coaching session for those interested in delving deeper into the world of Table Tennis coaching. This initiative aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to promote and develop table tennis within their communities.

The schedule for the weekend in Norman Wells (at Mackenzie Mountain School) is as follows:

Friday, February 23, 2024
4pm Free Play
5:30pm Dinner
7-9pm Table Tennis 101

Saturday, February 24, 2024
9am Breakfast
10am 11 years and older
11am 10 years and younger
1pm Lunch
2pm Community Coaching
3pm TT4ALL tournament
5:30pm

The Table Tennis 4 All program is thrilled to bring its initiative to the Sahtu region and looks forward to engaging with participants of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned player or a newcomer to the sport, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from during this exciting weekend in the Sahtu.

We can’t wait to see you soon in the Sahtu as we come together to celebrate the spirit of Table Tennis and the joy of community sports. Get ready to pick up a paddle, rally with friends, and experience the thrill of table tennis in the North!

For more information and updates on the TT4ALL program, stay tuned for announcements and details on how you can get involved in this exciting initiative. We look forward to welcoming you to the world of table tennis in the Sahtu region!

Table Tennis enthusiasts in Yellowknife have a reason to rejoice as a new program is set to launch in partnership with the City of Yellowknife, offering both adults and youth the opportunity to showcase their skills and enjoy the sport.

Commencing on April 6th, 2024, the program will consist of 7 sessions dedicated to training and practice. Participants can look forward to engaging sessions that will take place at William MacDonald School, providing a conducive environment for learning and playing Table Tennis.

This initiative aims to promote the growth and development of Table Tennis in Yellowknife, fostering a community of players who share a passion for the sport. By partnering with the City of Yellowknife, the program seeks to provide accessible and engaging opportunities for individuals of all ages to participate in and enjoy table tennis.

Table Tennis for Adults
https://yellowknife.legendonlineservices.ca/enterprise/program/3172

Table Tennis for Youth
https://yellowknife.legendonlineservices.ca/enterprise/program/3171

Master the game, from beginner to pro! This course is tailor-made for players of all levels, whether you’re just starting out or already a seasoned player. Dive into the world of Table Tennis with us and unlock the secrets of the game. From mastering the basics to unleashing advanced strokes, we’ve got you covered! Join us on this exciting journey and take your skills to new heights! No Class April 20

Whether you are a seasoned player looking to enhance your skills or a newcomer eager to learn and have fun, this program offers a welcoming space for everyone to come together and experience the thrill of table tennis. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey to see the sport of table tennis flourish in Yellowknife.

Hockey & Table Tennis are thrilled to continue the initiative, #weareallteamnt, which aims to shine a spotlight on the incredible individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support our athletes and coaches in multi-sport games. We believe it is essential to recognize and celebrate these unsung heroes who contribute significantly to the success of our sporting events.

If you know of anyone within your organization who would be interested in participating in this project, we kindly request you to share their contact information with us. You can send an email to [email protected], and we will promptly get in touch with them to arrange a video interview at a convenient time. To give you an idea of what to expect, check out the link below. These interviews not only provide a platform for these remarkable individuals to share their stories but also inspire others to join our cause.

We are excited about the opportunity to connect with most of you in the next few weeks and collaborate on this project. Together, we can showcase the dedication and passion that drives our sporting community.

We are delighted to announce the upcoming third TT4ALL tournament, scheduled to be held in Yellowknife. Save the date for Saturday, February 17th, 2024, as William McDonald School transforms into the epicenter of thrilling Table Tennis action in Yellowknife.

Commencing at 5pm, this event guarantees an exhilarating opportunity to challenge the skilled TEAM NT Arctic Winter Games athletes while engaging in friendly competition. The tournament welcomes participants of all ages, with no age-specific categories—just an open singles event where individuals can demonstrate their talents.

To secure your place in the TT4ALL event in Yellowknife, ensure to register by February 14th, 2024, using the registration form available HERE.

Attention officials! If you are keen on participating and honing your game skills, kindly reach out to us via email at [email protected], and we will reserve two tables exclusively for you.

We acknowledge that participants from smaller communities may have concerns regarding accommodation and transportation expenses. Hence, we encourage you to explore funding opportunities through the Mackenzie Recreation Association. Visit their website at https://mranwt.ca/funding-overview to discover the available funding options that can assist in covering your tournament-related costs.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the excitement of Table Tennis and join us for an unforgettable TT4ALL tournament in Yellowknife. We eagerly anticipate your presence at this thrilling event!