When Gio arrived in the community, he did not wait long to get involved. Almost immediately, he began building something many students and families had not experienced in years, the return of hockey to the community.

This year, Gio’s impact was formally recognized when he received the NWTT Teacher Award from the Indigenous Sport Circle of the Northwest Territories. The award highlights educators who go above and beyond to support Indigenous youth through sport, leadership, and community connection. It is a fitting recognition for someone whose work reaches far beyond the classroom.

Hockey had been largely absent from the community for nearly a generation. For many youth, there were no regular opportunities to skate, practice, or play. Gio stepped in with a simple but powerful goal, to bring hockey back and make it inclusive for everyone.

What began as a small effort grew into a full program. Hockey now runs four to five days a week, supported by tireless fundraising and community involvement. One of the most meaningful accomplishments was the creation of a sledge hockey program. Through fundraising and support, twelve sleds were purchased, making the sport accessible to youth with physical disabilities.

Fridays are now dedicated to sledge hockey, and the program has even become part of school life. Gio worked with the school to integrate the program through field trips and learning on the ice. Students are not just learning skills. They are learning confidence, teamwork, and inclusion.

Before coming north, Gio had built and led a sledge hockey program in another community for several years. Leaving that behind was not easy, but he arrived determined to begin again. And he did.

One of Gio’s greatest successes is how he made the program sustainable. A local board was created for Teach a Wild Hockey, involving teachers from both schools, RCMP members, and community partners. Over time, leadership transitioned into local hands. Today, the program is mainly run by community members.

From the very beginning, Gio believed this program should belong to the community. His role was not to own it, but to grow it, support it, and eventually step back so it could thrive on its own.

Those who work alongside Gio talk often about the impact he has beyond the rink. Students light up when they see him. His patience and kindness are consistently mentioned. His presence creates safety, encouragement, and belief.

And that is why this award matters.

The Indigenous Sport Circle NWT Teacher Award recognizes more than coaching or programming. It celebrates how educators use sport to lift young people, strengthen communities, and build lasting opportunity. Teachers like Gio are not just delivering curriculum. They are shaping futures.

Congratulations to Gio on this well-deserved honour. And thank you for reminding us that when teachers lead with care and commitment, sport becomes something far bigger than a game.