At Table Tennis North, we believe every girl belongs in sport.

That’s why we’re proud to support the new national Get Girl Coached campaign, led by Canadian Women & Sport. This initiative calls on coaches, sport leaders, and decision makers across the country to listen to girls, learn from them, and design programs where they can truly thrive.

In the North, we know that participation in sport builds confidence, connection, and community. But we also know that too many girls drop out of sport before they reach their full potential. With the right support, the right coaches, and the right opportunities, we can change that.

What We’re Doing

Table Tennis North continues to embed physical literacy into everything we do, with a strong focus on:
• Motivation and fun first programs
• Confidence-building through inclusive competition
• Competence in movement and technical skills
• Knowledge through coach mentorship and leadership

We’ve also launched initiatives like:
• Girls Coaching Girls: Mentorship and peer-led training
• Women in Table Tennis Campaign (with TTCAN)
• Leadership opportunities at events like the Arctic Winter Games

Our Challenge to the Table Tennis Community

If you coach, listen to the girls on your team
If you lead a club, create safe, inclusive spaces
If you’re a parent or teacher, encourage participation
If you’re a girl in sport, your voice matters.

Together, let’s build a system that keeps girls playing, and lets them lead the way.

Learn more: www.keepgirlsplaying.ca

Team NT Table Tennis athlete Kathleen Cai recently took part in Table Tennis Canada’s National Girls Training Camp, hosted in beautiful British Columbia at the iconic Richmond Olympic Oval.

Over four exciting days, Kathleen enjoyed a mix of fun activities and six intense Table Tennis training sessions designed to challenge and inspire young athletes from across the country. When asked about her biggest takeaway from the camp, Kathleen shared:

“I mainly worked on improving some of my skills and I learned a lot about the Richmond Oval itself, the history and a lot of cool hidden features. I also made lots of new friends!”

On her overall experience at the Girls National Training Camp, she added:

“I really enjoyed the camp. It was in the Olympic Oval, which I found super cool. There were so many awesome and supportive people, and the participants were all so nice!”

As for why she decided to participate, Kathleen explained:

“I saw it as a great opportunity for training at a higher level. I’ve participated before and I know how much fun it was.”

At just 13 years old, Kathleen is already showing strong dedication and a love for the sport. We look forward to seeing her continue her training as she prepares for the 2026 Arctic Winter Games and the 2027 Canada Winter Games. Way to go, Kathleen, we are proud of you!

Serving Equality. Smashing Barriers.

At Table Tennis North, we believe that everyone deserves a safe, welcoming space to play, grow, and belong, on and off the table. As we celebrate Pride Month, we stand in solidarity with 2SLGBTQIA+ athletes, coaches, families, and community members across the Northwest Territories and beyond.

Sport has the power to bring people together, to create connection and confidence, and to challenge outdated norms. That’s why we’re committed to making table tennis a place where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is intentional, and everyone can thrive, regardless of who they are or who they love.

This month, and every month, we are proud to support initiatives that promote equity, challenge discrimination, and uplift voices from across the spectrum of gender and identity.

Let’s keep building a sport community rooted in respect, love, and courage, one rally at a time.

PrideMonth #TableTennisNorth #ServeWithPride #SmashBarriers #2SLGBTQIA #InclusionInSport #PrideInTheNorth

Today, we come together to celebrate International Women’s Day, an annual event that serves as a pivotal moment in the women’s rights movement. This day shines a light on critical issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and the fight against violence and abuse faced by women globally. 

In the spirit of this celebration, we want to highlight the remarkable contributions of female participants in the sport of table tennis in the Northwest Territories. From grassroots outreach initiatives that promote the sport to high-performance athletes excelling at competitive levels, women are making significant strides. Their involvement extends beyond playing; they are also stepping into roles as coaches, mentors, and officials, shaping the future of the sport.

By recognizing these achievements and advocating for equity in sports, we can inspire the next generation of female athletes. Let us continue to support and empower women in all facets of life, ensuring that their voices are heard and their talents celebrated. Happy International Women’s Day!

On this National Girls & Women in Sports Day, Table Tennis North proudly recognizes the incredible contributions of women coaches, athletes, and officials at both the territorial and national levels. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in sports, and we are thrilled to see the support for our ongoing initiatives in these areas.

From implementing gender pronouns to promoting greater equity, our efforts are aimed at creating a more inclusive environment for all. We celebrate the participation of women and girls, ranging from ages 8 to their 70s, who are actively involved in national events such as mentorship coach programs, national girls camps, the Arctic Winter Games, the Canada Winter Games, and the 55+ Games.

As we honor the achievements of women in sports today, we look forward to continuing our work towards greater equity and inclusion in the future. Together, we can empower the next generation of female athletes and leaders in the world of sports!

NationalGirlsAndWomenInSportsDay #TableTennisNorth #EquityDiversityInclusion #WomenInSports #Empowerment

Sport North is thrilled to announce the launch of the Inspire Mentorship Program, a groundbreaking online initiative aimed at empowering young girls aged 14-17 across the Northwest Territories. Running from January to May, this program is designed to foster connections, enhance professional development, and build confidence among young female athletes.

The Inspire Mentorship Program offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage in mentorship sessions, where they will receive guidance and support from experienced mentors in the sports community. In addition to mentorship, participants will have the chance to volunteer, gaining valuable experience and contributing to their communities.

“This program is not just about sports; it’s about inspiring the next generation of female leaders in athletics,” said a representative from Sport North. “We believe that by providing these young women with the tools and support they need, we can help them thrive both on and off the field.”

The program aims to create a supportive network for young athletes, encouraging them to pursue their passions and develop their skills in a positive environment. By fostering connections among participants, the Inspire Mentorship Program seeks to build a strong community of young women who can uplift and inspire one another.

Girls interested in participating in this transformative program are encouraged to reach out to Spider Jones for more information. Interested individuals can contact Spider at spider@sportnorth.com or call 867-688-0121.

Let’s keep girls in sport and inspire the next generation of female leaders in athletics!

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.

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.

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