Our columns share insights, inspire connection, and foster community engagement. Through experiences and observations, we aim to empower readers to embrace physical literacy and create opportunities for youth participation.
A special thank you to Northern News Service for providing us the space in the newspaper to share our message. Join us on this journey of growth and connection!!!
The power of showing up: A tribute to community and connection – I wanted to share a heartwarming experience that highlights the power of community and youth engagement through Table Tennis North’s virtual Aerobic Table Tennis sessions, which recently welcomed participants from Team Nunavik. The commitment of individuals like Khan, who opens the school gym for athletes despite challenges, serves as a reminder that by simply showing up and creating opportunities, we can inspire the next generation and strengthen our communities together.
School sports can provide a memorable way to improve physical literacy – As the winter season unfolds, there’s much to appreciate about physical literacy, especially with the establishment of the NWT School Sports organization, which supports teachers and students in organizing various sporting events. With the dedication of individuals like Andrew Gilmour and the commitment of teachers, we can foster a vibrant sports culture that not only promotes physical activity but also enriches the experiences of students across our territory.
It’s all about small steps to become more physically active – As I reflect on my journey toward physical literacy, I’m thrilled to share that my goal of 5,000 steps a day is progressing well, complemented by some playful snowball fight training in my yard. By incorporating small, achievable goals into my daily routine, like morning walks and regular table tennis sessions, I’ve discovered the joy of movement and the importance of supporting one another in our physical activities.
The NWT School Table Tennis Championships: A celebration of community and sport – Reflecting on my journey through various prestigious sports events, the highlight of my year remains the NWT School Table Tennis Championships, where the spirit of community and youth engagement truly shines. Witnessing students from different communities come together to compete, support one another, and share unforgettable moments is a heartwarming reminder of the joy and camaraderie that sports can bring.
Celebrating stories from the North and getting inspired – As we welcome the new year, it’s an ideal time to honor the local heroes in our communities who inspire healthy living through their dedication to physical activity and sports. By celebrating our achievements and embracing the importance of physical literacy, we can empower ourselves and our youth to thrive, creating a supportive environment that encourages everyone to lead active, fulfilling lives.
Kickstart your year by setting goals and staying active – As we enter the new year, it’s a perfect time to reflect on our past experiences and set realistic intentions for a healthier future, embracing the joy of the holiday moments we’ve shared. Instead of overwhelming resolutions, let’s focus on achievable goals, like committing to daily activities that promote physical literacy and strengthen family bonds, ensuring we celebrate our progress along the way!
Include fun and physical activities in your holiday season – As we navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s crucial to carve out time for physical activity, which not only promotes health and well-being but also strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories. From outdoor sports and family walks to dance parties and fitness challenges, there are countless enjoyable ways to stay active together and make this holiday season both fun and memorable!
Engaging youth in physical activity and building a healthy future together – In our last column, we discussed the importance of physical literacy in helping everyone stay healthy, happy, and connected, while encouraging joy in movement through various activities. This time, we focus on engaging our youth in physical activities, emphasizing the vital role schools and communities play in creating fun, inclusive opportunities that promote lifelong healthy habits and foster valuable skills like teamwork and resilience.
Embracing physical activity for a healthier life – In our inaugural column, we explored the exciting world of physical literacy, emphasizing its role in fostering the ability, confidence, and desire to stay active at any age or ability. We highlighted the benefits of regular physical activity, from boosting mood and improving sleep to enhancing social connections and overall health, while celebrating how Indigenous communities incorporate traditional games to make movement a fun way to connect with culture. Join us as we continue to embrace the joy of movement and make physical activity an enjoyable part of our daily lives!
Embracing physical literacy for life – In his debut column, we explore the importance of physical literacy as a foundation for a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing its role in promoting well-being, cultural connections, and community engagement for all ages.