Athletes are currently in Yellowknife this week competing for a chance to participate in the upcoming 2025 Arctic Winter Games set to take place in Whitehorse this March. Territorial trials are ongoing, encompassing various sports including Dene games, table tennis, curling, badminton, hockey, volleyball, cross country skiing, wrestling, futsal, basketball, and Arctic sports.
One of the competitions held on Thursday at the Chief Drygeese centre involved athletes taking part in a Dene game known as stick pull. In this challenging game, competitors apply vegetable shortening on a stick and engage in a test of grip strength by trying to retain control of the stick against their opponent. Tadeh Betsina from Dettah, who won first place, attributed his success to rigorous training routines involving exercises like lat pulls, wrist curls, and farmer carries.
Sifera Kenny-Takazo from Deline, who is participating in the trials for the third time, emphasized the unique opportunities the games offer for travel, forging new friendships, and engaging in competitive sports. She highlighted the inclusive nature of the event, emphasizing that it’s not just about winning but also about having fun, creating memories, and meeting new people.
Ty Lafferty, an Indigenous games instructor and official, expressed his enthusiasm for the games, noting the joy and positivity they bring. He finds fulfillment in passing on his knowledge and experiences to athletes, aiming to provide guidance and support.
Inuvik’s Hayden Smith and Bristol Pidborochynski, both 14 years old, are trying out for the curling team, with Smith participating for the first time and Pidborochynski eager to make lasting memories with friends. Inuvik’s curling coach, Nick Saturnino, highlighted the growth of the sport in the region, emphasizing the importance of providing youth with opportunities to compete and develop their skills.
Coaches like Curtis Gruben are encouraging athletes from various communities to give their best efforts during the trials, emphasizing the competitive nature of the selection process. The Arctic Winter Games hold a special significance for families like Brent Babiuk and his daughter Avianna, who are following in the footsteps of past generations, aiming to represent their territory and excel in their respective sports.