last update, October 31, 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

Table Tennis North is now accepting applications for our 2026 Arctic Winter Games and 2027 Canada Winter Games coaching teams.

Application Deadline: September 30, 2025

We are committed to working closely with our coaches in preparation for these major events. This includes:

• Supporting coaches in trials, preparation camps, and event participation
• Ensuring coaches are successful in achieving the required NCCP coach certification
• Leading and upholding Safe Sport policies in all activities

Selection Policies and Applications

2026 Arctic Winter Games – Whitehorse, Yukon (March 8–14, 2026)

• Selection Policy – 2026 Arctic Winter Games
• Application Form – 2026 Arctic Winter Games

2027 Canada Winter Games – Québec (February 26–March 15, 2027)

• Selection Policy – 2027 Canada Winter Games
• Application Form – 2027 Canada Winter Games

If you are passionate about athlete development, committed to Safe Sport, and ready to represent the Northwest Territories on the national and international stage, we encourage you to apply. Any questions? Let us know and send an e-mail to info@tabletennisnorth.ca.

Table Tennis North is excited to announce that the Territorial Trials for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games will take place in Yellowknife, January 7–11, 2026.

This single set of trials, hosted for all AWG sports in Yellowknife and the surrounding area, is a change from past years and comes as part of a financial decision by Sport North to ensure full participation for Team NT while managing reduced Games funding. In previous years, separate trials were held for team and individual sports.

The 2026 Arctic Winter Games will be held in Whitehorse, Yukon, from March 8–15, 2026, giving athletes just under two months of training and preparation between trials and the Games.

Team Composition for Table Tennis
According to the AWG Technical Package, each jurisdiction may send up to:

• U15 Male (2011–2012) – 2 athletes
• U15 Female (2011–2012) – 2 athletes
• U18 Male (2008–2010) – 2 athletes
• U18 Female (2008–2010) – 2 athletes
• Coaches – 1 male and 1 female (a chaperone may be substituted if a coach from one gender is not available)

Athletes will compete in Singles, Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and the Mixed Team Event.

The Table Tennis events at the 2026 AWG will be held in Whitehorse, Yukon, as part of the multi-sport celebration that brings together athletes, coaches, officials, and communities from across the North.

More details, including registration links and schedules, will be shared in the near future. In the meantime, clubs and communities are encouraged to start preparing and identifying potential athletes for these trials.

Fort Providence, NT – Table Tennis North is excited to announce the upcoming Team NT Identification (ID) Camps, designed to prepare athletes and coaches for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games and the 2027 Canada Games. These camps will serve as a platform to identify interested participants who aspire to represent Team NT in these prestigious multi-sport events.

The ID camps are not trials; rather, they focus on preparation and skill development. This is a fantastic opportunity for athletes and coaches to engage with Team NT’s coaching staff, enhance their training, and learn more about the multi-sport games.

The first ID camp will take place at the Territorial Training Centre in Fort Providence, with the following schedule:

Friday, September 27
6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Training Session

Saturday, September 28
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Training Session
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Training Session
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Training Session

Sunday, September 29
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Training Session

Participants are encouraged to come prepared for an engaging weekend of training. Please bring the following items:

– Water bottle
– Indoor shoes
– Team NT clothing (if available)
– A list of your favourite music
– Notebook or tablet for notes
– Snacks
– Towel

This is a unique chance to connect with fellow athletes, learn from experienced coaches, and prepare for the exciting challenges ahead. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the sport, all interested athletes and coaches are welcome to join.

If you’re interested in participating in the ID camps and learning more about the multi-sport games, don’t hesitate to sign up! We look forward to seeing you in Fort Providence on September 27th for a weekend filled with training, camaraderie, and preparation for the future.

Link to sign up: https://forms.gle/dDegF9g47T8phYck7

For more information feel free to reach out to info@tabletennisnorth.ca. Let’s gear up for an exciting journey with Team NT in preparation to the 2026 Arctic Winter Games and 2027 Canada Winter Games.

Karissa Sadowick’s journey with table tennis began when she crossed paths with Steve Rowe from Ping Pong Literacy during his visit to the Northwest Territories several years ago. In a small community of 700 people, Steve introduced his innovative program on Table Tennis Physical Literacy, integrating the sport with subjects like Mathematics and English for students in Kindergarten to Grade 3. It was in this setting that Karissa first experienced the joy of table tennis, learning to balance a balloon and engaging in fun activities centered around the sport.

Fast forward five years, and Karissa has emerged as a shining star in the world of table tennis, clinching a gold medal at the Arctic Winter Games. Her dedication, countless hours of training, and unwavering support for her community and club have propelled her to success, proving that with hard work, anything is possible.

Thorsten Gohl, Executive Director, emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities and possibilities for youth to reach their full potential. “At just 11 years old, Karissa stands as a remarkable example, already a two-time Arctic Winter Games athlete with a coveted gold “Ulu” in her collection. Beyond her athletic achievements, Karissa’s commitment to fair play and community involvement sets her apart, making a positive impact on those around her.”

As we continue to follow Karissa’s journey, we eagerly anticipate witnessing the incredible accomplishments that lie ahead for her and the inspiring influence she exerts on her community and peers. Karissa Sadowick exemplifies the spirit of determination, sportsmanship, and excellence, embodying the essence of a true champion.

We look forward to celebrating Karissa’s future successes and the positive impact she continues to make in the world of sports and beyond.

Yellowknife’s very own Table Tennis prodigy, Kathleen Cai, made waves in the community as she was featured in Table Tennis Canada’s Women in Table Tennis campaign on Wednesday, March 27th. The talented Team NT athlete captivated audiences with her insights, challenges, and love for the sport in a series of social media posts and a video interview.

In her responses, Kathleen shared the challenges she faces as a young athlete, offered valuable advice, and expressed her deep passion for Table Tennis. Her thoughtful and inspiring answers resonated with fans and fellow players alike, showcasing her maturity and dedication to the sport at just 12 years old.

During the video interview, Kathleen discussed her efforts to introduce her friends to the sport and highlighted the joy and fulfillment she derives from playing table tennis. Her enthusiasm and genuine love for the game were evident as she shared her experiences and insights, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the table tennis world.

Kathleen’s exceptional skills and dedication were on full display at the recent Arctic Winter Games in Alaska, held from March 10-16. The young athlete’s impressive performance saw her bring home three Ulu’s, including a Gold medal in Juvenile Female Doubles, a Silver medal in Juvenile Mixed Doubles, and a Bronze medal in Juvenile Female Singles. Her remarkable achievements at the Games underscored her talent, hard work, and competitive spirit, earning her well-deserved recognition and admiration from her peers and supporters.

As Kathleen continues to excel and make her mark in the world of Table Tennis, she serves as a shining example of sportsmanship, positivity, and dedication both on and off the table. Her infectious smile, passion for the sport, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her a true role model for aspiring athletes and a source of inspiration for the Table Tennis community.

Table Tennis Canada Facebook

Table Tennis Canada Instagram

With her bright future ahead and a string of impressive accomplishments already under her belt, Kathleen Cai is poised to achieve even greater success and make a lasting impact in the world of table tennis. We eagerly anticipate witnessing her continued growth, achievements, and positive influence as she continues to shine brightly in the sport she loves.

KathleenCai #TableTennisCanada #WomenInTableTennis #ArcticWinterGames #TeamNT #YouthAthlete #RoleModel #Sportsmanship #TableTennisCommunity

The Snowking’s Winter Festival in Yellowknife was abuzz with excitement as Table Tennis enthusiasts and visitors of all ages gathered to enjoy a day of friendly competition and fun at the festival grounds. The Table Tennis team from Arctic Winter Games Team NT made a special appearance, showcasing their skills and engaging with attendees in spirited matches that captivated the crowd and added to the festive atmosphere.

“We had an amazing time at this year’s Festival,” said Thorsten Gohl, Executive Director Table Tennis North. “Setting up several table tennis tables and playing with the visitors of the castle was a highlight for both players and spectators alike. It was a fantastic opportunity to bring the community together through the joy of Table Tennis.”

The Arctic Winter Games Team NT athletes were on hand to demonstrate their prowess on the table, inviting festival-goers to challenge them in friendly matches and showcasing their skills with finesse and flair. From intense rallies to lighthearted games, the athletes engaged with participants of all skill levels, spreading the joy of table tennis and fostering a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among attendees.

“We were thrilled to have our athletes from Team NT join us at the Snowking’s Winter Festival,” Roland Laufer from the Yellowknife Table Tennis Club. “Their enthusiasm, talent, and sportsmanship were truly inspiring, and they brought a dynamic energy to the event that resonated with everyone who participated. We are already looking forward to next year’s festival and the opportunity to continue sharing the excitement of Table Tennis with the community.”

With the success of this year’s Table Tennis showcase at the Snowking’s Winter Festival, anticipation is high for the next edition of the event. As the Arctic Winter Games Team NT athletes continue to inspire and engage with the community through their passion for the sport, the future looks bright for table tennis in Yellowknife and beyond.

TableTennis #SnowkingsWinterFestival #ArcticWinterGames #TeamNT #CommunityEngagement #Sportsmanship #Camaraderie #YellowknifeEvents

Image: Vital, Brenna Neil (she/her) Service Canada, Dallas,

The journey to the 2024 Arctic Winter Games for Team NT Table Tennis athletes has been made possible through the collective efforts and support of various individuals and organizations. The successful acquisition of passports for the athletes, a crucial step in their participation at the games, was a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication of the community.

A heartwarming moment unfolded at the MP’s office on Friday, just before the athletes were set to depart for the games on Saturday. The athletes, accompanied by their team officials, were greeted with smiles and warm welcomes as they received their passports, ensuring that all necessary documentation was in place for their journey to Alaska.

The athletes eagerly signed their passports, filled with excitement and anticipation at the realization that they would now be able to represent Team NT at the 2024 Arctic Winter Games. The support and assistance provided by various individuals and organizations in facilitating this process did not go unnoticed, and the athletes expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to compete on a larger stage.

A message of appreciation was extended to all those involved in making this milestone possible. From Sport North to the MP’s office, Service Canada, community members, and everyone who played a role in supporting the athletes, their families, and the team, a collective effort was acknowledged and celebrated.

Dallas and Vital signing their passports in the MP Michael McLeod’s office.

As the athletes prepare to showcase their skills and sportsmanship at the 2024 Arctic Winter Games, the sense of unity and camaraderie within the Team NT Table Tennis community shines brightly. The journey to the games has been marked by teamwork, perseverance, and unwavering support, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship and community pride.

#TeamNTTableTennis #ArcticWinterGames2024 #CommunitySupport #Gratitude #TeamSpirit #Unity

Coaches representing the Table Tennis and Hockey teams at the Arctic Winter Games in Yellowknife are making a powerful statement by proudly wearing gender pronouns pins on their uniforms. The pins, which display preferred gender pronouns such as “he/him,” “she/her,” or “they/them,” serve as a visible symbol of inclusivity and a commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all athletes and participants.

“It’s so great to see the pin on our coaches’ uniforms,” we hear back from some of the participants. “They are role modeling inclusivity and opening up the barriers for identifying. It’s a small gesture that carries a big message of acceptance and respect for individuals of all gender identities.”

The gender pronouns pins have become a meaningful and impactful addition to the coaches’ uniforms, sparking conversations and raising awareness about the importance of recognizing and honoring individuals’ gender identities. By wearing these pins, the coaches are sending a clear message of support and solidarity.

The initiative to introduce gender pronouns pins at the Arctic Winter Games reflects a broader commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports. By acknowledging and affirming individuals’ gender identities, the coaches are helping to create a more inclusive and affirming environment where all participants feel valued, respected, and accepted for who they are.

To learn more about the significance of the gender pronouns pins and the impact they are making at the Arctic Winter Games, visit HERE. Join us in celebrating and promoting inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance in sports, one pin at a time.

GenderPronounsPins #Inclusivity #ArcticWinterGames #RoleModeling #DiversityandInclusion #Acceptance #Respect

Akiko’s dedication to fair play and sportsmanship shines through in her every action on and off the field. Her positive energy and unwavering support for her own athletes are truly commendable, but what sets her apart is her willingness to be a pillar of support for other athletes and coaches as well. Akiko’s positive attitude towards not only her own team but also her opponents is a testament to her character and integrity. It is no surprise that she has been recognized with the Fair Play pin, as she embodies the true spirit of sportsmanship in every aspect of her athletic endeavours.

Sending a huge, biggest ever, massive thank you to our coach Akiko for being her wonderful self and supporting our Team NT athletes at the Mat-Su 2024 Arctic Winter Games!!! Her positivity, support, and excitement for our athletes and opponents make us truly lucky to have her. #TeamNT #ArcticWinterGames #GratefulCoach