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When Plans Change, Communities Step Up

Hay River & Fort Smith Host Last-Minute Soccer Tournament

When the Senior Super Soccer event was unexpectedly cancelled, two NWT communities came together to ensure the youth didn’t miss their chance to play. In a matter of days, Hay River and Fort Smith organized a vibrant weekend tournament at the DJSS gym, proving once again that in small communities, heart and hustle go a long way.

The tournament welcomed three divisions of players:

  • U15 Boys featured 2 teams from DJSS and 1 from Fort Smith
  • U15 Girls included 2 DJSS teams, 1 from Fort Smith, and 1 from Chief Sunrise
  • U19 Co-ed brought a creative twist with mixed teams from Hay River and Fort Smith named the Oilers, Leafs, and Jets!

One highlight: the DJSS Panthers U15 Girls team, which proudly included six École Boréale players, showing the power of collaboration across schools.

Despite the tight timeline, everything ran smoothly thanks to the quick work of volunteers and school staff who pulled it all together. The players were grateful, the competition was lively, and the weekend was packed with smiles, goals, and good energy.

Adding even more spirit were some adorable fans from the Hay River After School Club, who showed up with handmade signs and big voices to cheer on their favourite teams. It was a perfect reminder that sport is about more than competition—it’s about connection, community, and joy.

Thank you to everyone who made this tournament happen, your efforts made a lasting difference.

More Than a Game: A Story of Growth, Respect, and Community

More Than a Game: A Story of Growth, Respect, and Community

At the NT School Sports Super Soccer event, the teams from St. Pat’s and William MacDonald schools gave us a final to remember. Not just for the action on the field, but for the incredible spirit shown off it. 

The final match was a hard-fought battle, filled with energy, passion, and determination from both sides. St. Pat’s ultimately came out on top, but the real victory went far beyond the scoreboard. At the medal ceremony, the players from St. Pat’s were the first to applaud the team from William MacDonald for their outstanding performance. And in a beautiful moment of mutual respect, the players from William MacDonald returned the applause for St. Pat’s as they received their awards. Tears flowed on both sides. Tears of pride, joy, and deep emotion.

Then came a moment that captured the true heart of sport: As William MacDonald gathered for a team photo, the St. Pat’s players ran across the field to cheer them on. Moments later, players from both teams lined up together for one big, joyful group picture, a lasting memory of what sport is truly about. This photo reminds us that the true spirit of competition is not just about winning, it’s about lifting each other up, celebrating effort, and building community through sport.

“I love to see growth. Not just in the skills or techniques but in character development for the athletes. These are young minds and sports are a wonderful way to help shape them for a better future.” – Andrew Gilmour, Executive Director NT School Sports

At NT School Sports, we are incredibly proud of these young athletes for showing what it means to compete with heart, respect, and pride.

Moving with Purpose – National MMIWG2S Awareness Day

May 5 – Red Dress Day

On May 5, Physical Literacy NWT honours National MMIWG2S Awareness Day, also known as Red Dress Day.

This day honours and remembers the thousands of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit, and gender-diverse people across Canada.
It is a time to reflect on the deep need for safety, justice, respect, and healing within all communities.

We are reminded of Call to Action 41 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which called for a national inquiry into the many cases of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls — a call that continues to guide the work of reconciliation today.

At Physical Literacy NWT, we believe that movement is more than physical — it is a way to connect, to honour stories, and to build stronger, safer communities for everyone.

Today, we move with purpose.
We honour with every step.

#RedDressDay #MMIWG2S #PhysicalLiteracyNWT #TruthAndReconciliation

More Than Ever, Canada Needs the Power of Movement

In the Northwest Territories, we know that movement is about more than medals, podiums, or personal bests. It’s about confidence. It’s about connection. It’s about building a sense of belonging, one stride, one throw, one joyful leap at a time.

That’s why, today more than ever, Canada needs the spirit behind the Canada Games: a spirit of unity, resilience, and hope. And here in the North, we see that spirit alive every day in our schools, our playgrounds, our communities, and our programs.

Physical literacy, the confidence, competence, motivation, and understanding to move in a variety of ways, is at the heart of everything we do. It’s how we nurture not just athletes, but healthier, happier, more connected communities.

The Canada Games inspire more than elite sport. They inspire a lifetime of movement, celebrating every step toward building active, inclusive communities from coast to coast to coast.

As we watch the Games, we are reminded of the work happening in every corner of our territory: children learning to hop across snowbanks, Elders joining a game of ball toss, families trying a new sport together. These are the everyday moments where resilience, connection, and community are born.

In the Northwest Territories, we believe every body deserves a place to move, to play, and to grow. And through the spirit of physical literacy, we are building stronger foundations, for today, and for generations to come.

Because movement is more than motion.


It’s belonging.
It’s resilience.
It’s our future.

Celebrating National Volunteer Week

At Physical Literacy NWT, we believe that community is built one small action at a time, and our volunteers are at the heart of it all.

This National Volunteer Week, we celebrate the many individuals who give their time, energy, and care to help others move, grow, and thrive. Whether supporting events, coaching programs, leading workshops, or simply offering encouragement, volunteers help us create spaces where everyone belongs, and where every movement matters.

As Thorsten Gohl, Physical Literacy Coordinator, shares:
“Every time someone shows up, with kindness, with energy, with belief in others, they are shaping a stronger, more resilient North. Our volunteers don’t just build programs; they build possibility.”

Thank you for making a difference. Thank you for bringing movement to life in our communities. Your impact is felt in every stride, every smile, and every new opportunity to play, learn, and connect.

Quick Guide to the UCCMS (Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address Maltreatment in Sport)

The UCCMS outlines key expectations and standards for creating safe, respectful, and inclusive sport environments. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s inside:

Purpose & Scope

    • Establishes a national standard to prevent and address maltreatment in sport.
    • Applies to all participants: athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, volunteers, and others.

    Core Principles

      • Everyone has the right to participate in sport free from abuse, harassment, neglect, and discrimination.
      • Emphasizes integrity, safety, fairness, inclusion, and respect.

      Prohibited Conduct
      The UCCMS defines and prohibits:

        • Psychological Maltreatment – including emotional abuse, bullying, and gaslighting.
        • Physical Maltreatment – any form of physical violence or neglect.
        • Sexual Maltreatment – harassment, abuse, or exploitation of a sexual nature.
        • Neglect – failure to meet basic needs of athletes (e.g., medical, nutrition, emotional).
        • Grooming & Boundary Transgressions – inappropriate relationships or interactions.
        • Discrimination, Harassment & Abuse of Authority – based on race, gender, sexuality, etc.

        Responsibilities & Duty to Report

          • Every sport organization must implement policies aligned with the UCCMS.
          • Participants must report any violations they witness or experience.
          • The Independent Sport Integrity Office (OSIC) manages complaints for national-level sport.

          Sanctions & Accountability

            • Outlines how investigations happen and what sanctions may result.
            • Ensures a fair and transparent process for handling complaints.

            Education & Prevention

              • Encourages training and education as proactive tools.
              • Emphasizes the importance of creating cultures of trust and safety.

              This summary helps sport leaders and participants quickly understand what the UCCMS stands for and why it matters. For the full document, you can read it here: https://sportintegritycommissioner.ca/sites/default/files/2022-06/UCCMS-v6.0-20220531.pdf

              Let’s Bring More Youth Together Through Sport, Leadership & Fun!

              2025–2026 GNWT Youth Funding Streams – What You Need to Know

              If you’re dreaming of bringing youth together through sport, recreation, leadership, or cultural programming, good news! There are three amazing funding programs available through the Government of the Northwest Territories (MACA), and they’re ready to support your vision.

              Whether you’re planning a regional sport gathering, running community programming, or helping young people grow into confident leaders, now’s the time to take action. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand what’s available, and how to get started.

              1. Regional Youth Sport Events (RYSE)

              Let’s get kids moving, learning, and connecting through sport. This fund helps you host regional sport events that bring youth together from multiple communities. Think tournaments, try-it camps, or cross-community training weekends.

              Eligible expenses: Travel, accommodation, meals, equipment, facilities, honoraria

              Great for: TSOs, rec departments, schools, or regional councils

              Deadline: April 26, 2025

              Guidelines
              Application

              1. Youth Contribution Program (YCP)

              Sustainable youth programming, built right in your community. This one’s for local and regional groups running ongoing programs for youth, sport, recreation, leadership, wellness, and culture. Weekly programming, seasonal activities, even coaching workshops, this funding helps you do more, consistently.

              Eligible expenses: Staffing, supplies, training, facilities, planning

              Funding: Up to $10,000

              Deadline: May 3, 2025

              Guidelines
              Application

              1. Youth Corps Program

              Help youth lead the way, in sport, culture, and community. This is your opportunity to help youth become the leaders they’re meant to be. Youth Corps supports projects focused on leadership, service, and personal development, from traditional skills and mental wellness to community engagement and sport leadership.

              You can also use this for virtual sessions, youth-led initiatives, or even multi-week mentorship programs. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box!

              Perfect for: Youth workers, cultural groups, and coaches wanting to do more
              Deadline: May 10, 2025

              Guidelines
              Application

              Ready to apply?

              •   Make a plan (big or small!)
•   Use the fillable forms linked above
•   Reach out if you need help! (Seriously — I’m always here to brainstorm)

              Why This Matters?

              This isn’t just funding — it’s opportunity. It’s the chance to…

              •   Build confidence and connection through play
•   Create safe and welcoming environments
•   Keep youth active, included, and inspired
•   Foster cultural pride and northern resilience
•   Grow your programs in ways that reflect your community’s spirit

              Need a letter of support, a quick review, or help telling your story? Let’s chat. You’re not doing this alone. Let’s make 2025–2026 a year of movement, mentorship, and meaningful memories. We’re in this together, #weareallteamnt.

              Exciting News for Athletes in Our Territory!

              RBC Training Ground is now open for registration and is set to arrive in Yellowknife this May! This is a fantastic opportunity to discover your potential and elevate your athletic journey.

              For all the details and to register, visit the RBC Training Ground website at https://rbctrainingground.ca/ and stay tuned for updates from Sport North. This is your chance to get moving and take your skills to the next level!

              If you need assistance or want to sign up, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected]. We’re here to help you connect and stay informed. Plus, we can support small communities in finding funding to ensure everyone has the chance to participate in this incredible event.

              Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity!

              #RBCTainingGround #AthleteDevelopment #Yellowknife #SportNorth #GetMoving #OpportunityKnocks #TableTennisNorth #weareallteamnt 

              Activate NT: $5,000 Microgrants for Youth-Led Recreation Projects!

              Are you a young leader between the ages of 15 and 25 with a passion for making your community more active, creative, and connected? Activate NT, a program by the Northwest Territories Recreation and Parks Association (NWTRPA), is now accepting applications for $5,000 microgrants to support youth-led recreation initiatives across the NWT!

              Whether it’s a sports tournament, wellness workshop, cultural event, outdoor adventure, or arts-based program, Activate NT helps bring your ideas to life while building leadership skills and creating positive change in your community.

              What’s the Program All About?
              Activate NT empowers youth to:
              • Design and lead their own recreation-based projects
              • Develop valuable leadership and project planning skills
              • Make a meaningful impact in their communities

              Each successful applicant will also work with a Project Mentor for guidance and support along the way. (Not sure who your mentor might be yet? Don’t worry — NWTRPA can help you find one!)

              How to Apply
              Choose the method that works best for you:
              Written Application
              • Fill out the online form or use the fillable PDF provided by NWTRPA (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeKyYLna7wTewpSe8LzUJgHh1_4itAb6Sn2DYvVamKAg3awYQ/viewform).
              • Email completed PDFs to [email protected]
              Audio or Video Application
              • Record your answers using the questions in the Audio/Video Application Instructions.
              • Upload your recordings here (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe2MyEdM1QO6dFyP2jUBL_NH0lzbPmCyxCaJstNxwoYwkecig/viewform).
              Phone Interview
              • Prefer a conversation? Request a phone call to apply verbally by emailing [email protected] or calling (867) 669-6791.

              What Makes a Strong Application?
              Applications will be reviewed based on:
              • Project Strength – Is it feasible? Does it meet a need or involve local organizations?
              • Your Commitment – Why this project matters to you and how you’ll stick with it
              • Representation – At least 50% of recipients will be Indigenous and/or from outside Yellowknife
              • Mentorship – Every applicant must have (or be connected with) a mentor

              Key Dates
              • Applications Open: Now until May 16
              • Review Period: May 19–30
              • Notifications Sent: June 2–13

              Spread the Word
              If you know youth in your community who are passionate about recreation, share this opportunity with them! And if you’re interested in being a Project Mentor, we’d love to hear from you too.


              Have questions? Reach out to:

              Adam Woogh | Director, Professional Development
(867) 669-6791 | [email protected]

              This is an amazing chance to activate your ideas, connect with your community, and grow as a leader — so what are you waiting for? Apply now and make a difference!

              The Importance of Recognizing Pink Shirt Day

              Pink Shirt Day is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about bullying and promoting kindness, inclusivity, and respect in our communities. Originating in Canada, this day encourages individuals to wear pink as a symbol of solidarity against bullying and to foster a culture of acceptance and support. Recognizing Pink Shirt Day is crucial, as it serves as a reminder of the impact bullying can have on individuals, particularly children and youth, and the importance of standing up against it.

              In addition to its focus on anti-bullying, Pink Shirt Day aligns closely with the principles of physical literacy. Physical literacy is the ability to move with competence and confidence in a variety of physical activities. It encompasses not only the physical skills needed for sports and recreation but also the social and emotional skills that contribute to a positive and inclusive environment.

              Promoting physical literacy can play a significant role in combating bullying. Engaging in physical activities helps build self-esteem, fosters teamwork, and encourages social connections among peers. When children and youth feel confident in their physical abilities, they are more likely to participate in group activities, make friends, and develop a sense of belonging. This sense of community can help reduce instances of bullying and create a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued.

              By recognizing Pink Shirt Day, we not only stand against bullying but also promote the importance of physical literacy as a means to empower individuals and build inclusive communities. Let’s wear our pink shirts proudly and commit to fostering kindness, respect, and physical literacy in our schools and beyond!