NEWS

The TT4ALL event held at William MacDonald School in Yellowknife on January 27th, 2024, was a resounding success. With over 50 participants, the event provided an introduction to the sport of Table Tennis while offering fun matches for all attendees. The event showcased inclusivity and brought together individuals from various walks of life, including both youth and adults.

The highlight of the event was the gripping final match between Nikhilesh Gohil and Akiko Iwase. The match went all the way to the 5th set, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. In the end, Nikhilesh Gohil emerged as the winner, displaying exceptional skill and determination.

One of the remarkable aspects of the TT4ALL event was its open nature, allowing participants from all backgrounds to take part. It was heartening to witness youth competing against adults, fostering a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship. The event successfully created an inclusive and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved.

Looking ahead, the organizers are excited about upcoming events in the Beaufort Delta, Sahtu, and South Slave regions over the next two months. These events promise to continue the spirit of inclusivity and fun, providing more opportunities for table tennis enthusiasts to come together and showcase their skills.

Final Standings:
1st Place: Nikhilesh Gohil
2nd Place: Akiko Iwase

The TT4ALL event in Yellowknife was a memorable experience for the capital city. With its focus on inclusivity, exciting matches, and a diverse participant base, the event exemplified the joy and camaraderie that table tennis can bring. The success of this event sets the stage for future events in the region, fostering a thriving table tennis community.

Calling all Table Tennis enthusiasts in Hay River! Get ready for some exciting days filled with fun and engaging Table Tennis sessions. TT4ALL is thrilled to announce its upcoming activities in Hay River on February 1-2, 2024.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, these sessions are designed to provide a fun and inclusive environment for everyone. Join us as we come together to enjoy the thrill of table tennis and improve our skills. TT4ALL believes in the power of inclusivity, and these sessions are open to individuals of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or a seasoned player seeking friendly competition, there’s something for everyone.

These sessions offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow table tennis enthusiasts in Hay River. Share your passion for the sport, exchange tips and tricks, and forge new friendships within the local table tennis community.

Thursday, February 1, 2024
1 – 1:45pm adults
2 – 2:45pm adults
3:45 – 4:30pm for ages 10-13
4:45 – 5:30pm for ages 14-16

Friday
2 – 2:45pm for ages 10-13
3 – 3:45pm for ages 14-16
4 – 4:45pm Adults

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us via [email protected]!!!

We are thrilled to announce that our highly anticipated second TT4ALL tournament is set to take place in Yellowknife this weekend. Mark your calendars for Saturday, January 27th, 2024, as William McDonald School becomes the hub of exciting Table Tennis action in Yellowknife.

Starting at 5pm, this event promises to be a fantastic opportunity to challenge the talented TEAM NT Arctic Winter Games athletes while enjoying some friendly competition. The tournament is open to participants of all ages, with no specific age categories—just an open singles event where everyone can showcase their skills.

To secure your spot in the TT4ALL event in Yellowknife, make sure to register by Thursday, January 25, 2024, using the registration form available at https://forms.gle/qVZbzsNRCC3VaNcw7.

Calling all officials! If you’re interested in participating and getting some game routine in, please send us an email ([email protected]), and we will allocate two tables specifically for you.

We understand that participants from small communities may have concerns about accommodation and transportation costs. That’s why we encourage you to apply for funding through the Mackenzie Recreation Association. Visit their website at https://mranwt.ca/funding-overview to learn more about the available funding options that can help cover your expenses for the tournament.

Get ready to experience the thrill of table tennis and join us for an unforgettable TT4ALL tournament in Yellowknife. We look forward to seeing you there!

The recently concluded TT4ALL event in Fort Providence proved to be a remarkable celebration of Table Tennis. Over the course of seven days, Deh Gah School, the local Table Tennis Club, and the community came together to explore and embrace the sport.

The highlight of the event was an exciting tournament that attracted 26 enthusiastic participants. The competition was fierce, with players showcasing their skills and determination. After a thrilling final match, Neilson Vandell from Fort Providence emerged as the deserving winner. His hard-fought victory against Carter Sadowick, an Arctic Winter Games athlete, added an extra layer of excitement to the event.

What made the TT4ALL event truly special was the overwhelming participation it received. More than 50 individuals, both young and old, took part in the event, eager to try their hand at table tennis. The atmosphere was filled with joy, camaraderie, and a shared passion for the sport.

The success of the TT4ALL event in Fort Providence can be attributed to the collective efforts of the organizers, volunteers, and the entire community. Their dedication and commitment to promoting table tennis as an inclusive and accessible sport were evident throughout the event.

The event not only provided an opportunity for individuals to showcase their table tennis skills but also served as a platform for fostering a sense of community and togetherness. It brought people from different backgrounds and age groups together, creating lasting memories and friendships.

As the curtains closed on the TT4ALL event, the organizers expressed their gratitude to everyone who contributed to its success. They hope that the event’s positive impact will continue to resonate within the community, inspiring more individuals to embrace table tennis as a recreational and competitive sport. With its vibrant atmosphere, thrilling matches, and overwhelming participation, the event showcased the power of table tennis to bring people together and create a sense of unity.

Table Tennis North is thrilled to join forces with the NWT Recreation & Park Association for the Walk to Tuk initiative.

Our team, known as the Ping Pong Rockstars, consists of a talented group of table tennis players. Walk to Tuk presents a fantastic opportunity for residents of the NWT to engage in a safe, healthy, and exciting winter activity. We are eagerly looking forward to seeing all participants on the journey to Tuk and are excited to contribute to this wonderful initiative. Let’s lace up our walking shoes and make this a memorable experience for everyone involved!

Fort Providence, Northwest Territories – Exciting news for Table Tennis enthusiasts in the Northwest Territories! Table Tennis North, in collaboration with Table Tennis Canada and Sport Canada, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Table Tennis For All tournament series. This series of events aims to engage participants of all ages and skill levels in the sport of table tennis while fostering a sense of community and friendly competition.

The Table Tennis For All tournament series will consist of six events, taking place from January to March 2024, in all five regions of the Northwest Territories. These events, known as “Table Tennis Festivals,” will provide participants with an opportunity to learn more about the sport, improve their skills, and enjoy some friendly competitions.

The festivals will feature a range of activities designed to cater to players of all levels, from beginners to experienced players. Participants will have the chance to receive coaching, engage in practice sessions, and participate in various tournament formats. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the sport, these events offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy the game of Table Tennis.

Here are the dates for the upcoming Table Tennis For All tournaments:

Fort Providence – Sign up: https://forms.gle/Y4WZ8otu9yggjak37
January 21, 2024
Snowshoe Centre, Fort Providence
Winner: Neilson Vandell, Fort Providence

Yellowknife – Sign up: https://forms.gle/Y4WZ8otu9yggjak37
January 27, 2024, 5pm
William McDonald School, Yellowknife

TBD – Sign up: n/a yet
February 4, 2024

TBD – Sign up: n/a yet
February 25, 2024

TBD – Sign up: n/a yet
March 3, 2024

TBD – Sign up: n/a yet
March 30, 2024

All events will start at 10:30am with an open competition. So, anyone can join. We also have prizes available for the winners:

1. Place $150 gift card local store
2. Place $75 gift card local store
3. Place $25 gift card local store

The organizers of the Table Tennis For All tournament series extend a warm invitation to anyone interested in participating. Regardless of age or skill level, everyone is welcome to join these events and experience the joy of Table Tennis. Whether you are looking to compete, learn, or simply have fun, these festivals provide a fantastic opportunity to engage with the sport and connect with fellow Table Tennis enthusiasts.

To sign up for the Table Tennis Festivals or to obtain more information, please visit the Table Tennis North website or contact the event organizers directly. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to be a part of the table tennis community in the Northwest Territories.

Get your paddles ready, mark your calendars, and join us for an unforgettable series of Table Tennis For All events!

We are thrilled to welcome back esteemed coach Steve Rowe, who played a pivotal role in the success of Team NT during the 2018 and 2020 Arctic Winter Games. Steve’s return marks an exciting development as he joins the team in preparing for the upcoming 2024 Arctic Winter Games. 

Steve will lend his expertise and experience to assist in the preparation of Team NT, ensuring they are ready to compete at their best in the highly anticipated Arctic Winter Games. His guidance and mentorship will be invaluable in helping the athletes reach their full potential and showcase their skills on the international stage.

In addition to his involvement with Team NT, he will also contribute to the development of Table Tennis Festivals and the Community Sport for All Initiative across all regions of the Northwest Territories. These initiatives aim to promote inclusivity, active participation, and community engagement in sports throughout the territory.

Recognizing the importance of virtual programs in the current landscape, Steve will play a key role in building a virtual training program for NWT athletes. This program will provide athletes with the necessary resources and support to continue their training and development, even in the absence of in-person events and competitions.

Furthermore, he will actively support the Freestyle Ping Pong Challenge, an exciting event that encourages creativity and innovation in table tennis. This unique challenge pushes the boundaries of traditional table tennis and showcases the versatility and skill of the athletes. His involvement extends beyond the competitive realm as he contributes to building the School Program and Coach Development initiatives. By sharing his knowledge and expertise with coaches and educators, he aims to enhance the overall sporting experience for young athletes in the Northwest Territories.

Expressing his excitement about returning to the NWT, Steve stated, “I am thrilled to be back in the Northwest Territories and to have the opportunity to work with such talented athletes and dedicated coaches. Together, we will strive for excellence and create a positive impact in the sporting community.”

The NWT eagerly anticipates the incredible developments that will unfold under Steve Rowe’s guidance and expertise. With his return, the stage is set for a remarkable year of sporting achievements and community engagement.

Stay tuned for updates on the progress and accomplishments of Team NT and the exciting initiatives led by Steve Rowe. The Northwest Territories is poised to witness extraordinary feats in the world of sports.

Calling all active seniors in the Northwest Territories! If you’re looking for an exciting opportunity to showcase your skills and connect with like-minded individuals from across Canada, then joining Team NWT for the Canada 55+ Games is the perfect choice for you.

Hosted in Québec City from August 27-30, 2024.

What are the Canada 55+ Games?
The Canada 55+ Games is a national multi-sport event held every two years, specifically designed for Canadians aged 55 and over. It serves as a platform for seniors to engage in friendly competition, promote active living, and foster social connections.

Joining Team NWT:
To be eligible to join Team NWT, you must become a member of the NWT 55+ Games Association. The membership fee is currently set at $10.00 per year or $20.00 per cycle, payable every second year during the Games year. By becoming a member, you gain access to the numerous benefits and opportunities associated with participating in the Canada 55+ Games.

The NWT 55+ Games Association maintains membership in both the CSGA and Sport North, ensuring that Team NWT is well-represented and connected within the larger sporting community.

Expression of Interest Form
Team Selection Policy
Information Sheet

Don’t miss out on this incredible chance to showcase your skills, make new friends, and embrace an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Join Team NWT and be a part of the Canada 55+ Games!

You can find more information on the Sport North website: https://www.sportnorth.com/games/canada-55-games-0

Have a look at the Canada 55+ Games website: https://canada55plusgames.com/

We are celebrating a year filled with achievements and exciting developments. From expanding its reach to participating in prestigious games, Table Tennis North has made significant strides in its mission to provide opportunities and possibilities for the youth in the North.

Throughout the year, Table Tennis North focused on teaching and engaging more communities in the Northwest Territories. By introducing table tennis to new areas, the organization aimed to inspire a love for the sport and promote an active lifestyle. Additionally, Table Tennis North prioritized the development of coaches, ensuring that the sport continues to thrive and builds capacity in the communities.

One of the highlights of the year was the organization’s participation in both the Arctic Winter Games and the Canada Winter Games. These events provided a platform for talented athletes from the Northwest Territories to showcase their skills and compete on a larger stage. Notably, the Fort Providence table tennis club is working diligently to send two athletes to the Arctic Winter Games in 2024, demonstrating the growth and potential of the sport in the region.

Table Tennis North also organized the Territorial School tournament, which saw an impressive turnout of almost 150 participants. This event not only fostered friendly competition but also served as a platform for young players to sharpen their skills and gain valuable experience. Furthermore, the Yellowknife Open set a new record with 40 participants, highlighting the increasing popularity of table tennis in the area.

The success of Table Tennis North would not have been possible without the support of its funders, partners, and sponsors. The organization extends its gratitude to the Government of the Northwest Territories, Sport Canada, the Aboriginal Sport Circle, NWT Recreation & Parks Association, Mackenzie Recreation Association, KidSport NWT, Aurora Fort, and Rowe’s Construction. Additionally, Table Tennis North acknowledges the valuable partnerships it has formed with Hockey NWT and Badminton NWT, which have further enriched the sporting community in the North.

As Table Tennis North looks ahead to 2024, the organization has exciting plans in store. More tournaments are on the horizon, including three Table Tennis Festivals in the North Slave, Sathu, and Beaufort Delta regions. These events will provide opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to come together, compete, and celebrate the sport.

Furthermore, the establishment of the Yellowknife Table Tennis Club will offer even more avenues for youth to explore and engage with table tennis. With increased accessibility and resources, the club aims to nurture talent and create a vibrant table tennis community in the area.

Despite the challenges and uncertainties that may lie ahead, Table Tennis North remains steadfast in its mission. The organization is committed to empowering youth and helping them unlock their full potential, both on and off the table. By fostering a love for table tennis and providing a supportive environment, Table Tennis North is dedicated to enabling young individuals to become the best version of themselves.

As 2024 approaches, Table Tennis North eagerly anticipates the opportunities and achievements that the future holds. With the continued support of its stakeholders and the unwavering dedication of its team, the organization is poised to make a lasting impact on the table tennis landscape in the Northwest Territories.

Our coaches deliver a powerful message through their actions. Wearing ‘Every Child Matters’ and Gender Pronouns pins, we create an inclusive environment where language becomes a tool for acceptance. Let’s honor everyone’s authentic selves and foster a culture of respect and understanding.

Language is a powerful tool for communicating inclusivity in sport. Language is not neutral. It is closely tied to the culture and society in which it is used. Sport is not an equal playing field, it is a sex-segregated world, where not everyone belongs and is welcomed. Sport is however, one of the most powerful platforms for promoting equality and empowering all who participate. One of the ways we can start moving towards equality in sport is with the language we use.

Gender pronouns (he/she/they/ze etc.) specifically refer to the person you are referring to. Pronouns are a part of someone’s gender expression and send the message to others of who they authentically are and how they feel about themselves.

Many non-binary people feel left out of society and often have their pronouns ignored, misused, or discounted.  Non-binary or genderqueer are umbrella terms for gender identities that are neither male or female, boy or girl. 

Below are a few links that can help you practice using other pronouns:

• http://mypronouns.org/she
• http://mypronouns.org/he
• http://mypronouns.org/they
• http://mypronouns.org/ze
• http://mypronouns.org/neopronouns

Safe and Helpful Hints:

• Don’t guess – Ask. It is acceptable to ask someone what pronoun they use.
• Use singular “they/them/theirs” for a person until you have the opportunity to ask about their pronouns.
• You can also use their name until you learn their pronouns.
• If you have trouble remembering someone’s pronoun, it is okay to ask for a reminder.
• If you misuse someone’s pronouns, acknowledge that you have done that and move on.  The best way to show that you care is to try to use the correct pronoun.

Tips for programs and practices:

• Offer a non-binary gender option for membership registration.
• Update registration forms, and online forms, to include the gender pronouns that individuals use.
• Avoid referring to a group or team with “hey guys” or “hey girls”. Use gender neutral language like ‘hey team’ or “hey everyone”.
• Start sharing your pronouns to normalize the behavior of not making assumptions about gender identity. You can start by adding your pronouns to your email signature.

It may take some getting used to. You may feel awkward at times. Correctly using someone’s pronouns allows the person to feel seen and included-and that’s powerful. Ultimately, using gender-neutral pronouns when referring to a group or person, or about a group or person, doesn’t require too much effort on your part. It will make a huge difference in creating a warmer, more inclusive sport environment for everyone.