Gatineau, Quebec – January 21-23, 2025
At the recent Sport for Life Summit, Team NT’s Kathleen Cai, a talented 13-year-old from Yellowknife, took the stage to present on the vital topic of supporting athletes beyond the sport of Table Tennis. Accompanied by Thorsten Gohl from Table Tennis North, Kathleen captivated the audience with her insights and passion for fostering a holistic approach to the development of the sport in the Northwest Territories..
The presentation focused on three main pillars essential for nurturing athletes:
- Creating Safe Spaces
Kathleen emphasized the importance of responsible cultural movement pledges and mandatory training to ensure that all athletes feel secure and supported in their environments. - Promoting Inclusion
Highlighting initiatives like the ‘Every Child Matters’ campaign, the presenters showcased their commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate and thrive in sports. - Empowering Athletes
The team discussed the implementation of comprehensive support systems, including mental performance coaching and community outreach programs, designed to empower athletes both on and off the field.
One of the standout moments of the presentation was the sharing of success stories, including a unique collaboration with Hockey North. This initiative aimed to enhance goalies’ reaction times through innovative table tennis training, demonstrating the versatility and benefits of cross-sport training.
Kathleen and Thorsten’s approach to building community through sport was evident, as they articulated how their work extends beyond Table Tennis, contributing to the holistic development of athletes across various disciplines. The presentation concluded on a light-hearted note with a blooper reel, showcasing the fun and camaraderie that defines their program.
Kathleen’s remarkable ability to present on a national stage at such a young age garnered positive feedback from attendees, including representatives from the Coaching Association of Canada, Sport for Life, and Table Tennis Canada. The heartwarming stories shared resonated with many, highlighting the significant impact being made in the North.
As the summit wrapped up, there was a palpable sense of excitement for the future, with many looking forward to the continued achievements of Kathleen and Table Tennis North in their mission to support athletes beyond the sport of Table Tennis.
Check out the presentation at the Sport for Life Summit here.
Here is our presentation:
The Yellowknife, January 31, 2025
