In early 2024, the Northwest Territories School Sports Association (NTSSA) officially launched, and with it came a fresh vision for what school sport could look like across the territory. At the heart of that vision is Andrew Gilmour, the association’s first Executive Director.

Andrew has called Yellowknife home since 2015 and brings with him a background in education and sport leadership. Prior to stepping into his role with NTSSA, he worked within Yellowknife’s school system and also managed a martial arts school, organizing events and building strong sport-based communities.

Now, his focus is territory-wide.

“A lot of what I’m doing is based on what phys-ed teachers have been doing for years,” Andrew explains. “I’ve been learning from them, and they’ve been so supportive.”

Why NTSSA Was Created

Before NTSSA existed, organizing tournaments like Cager or Super Soccer often fell to already-busy teachers. It became clear that a centralized organization was needed, one that could support planning, logistics, and continuity across regions.

“It was a lot of extra work for teachers and quite overwhelming,” says Andrew. “Now, we’re creating consistency and helping make sure school sport is accessible and exciting for students and staff.”

Since starting the role in January 2024, Andrew has helped organize some of the territory’s largest events, including Junior and Senior Cager tournaments and Super Soccer, which drew 53 junior teams and 29 senior teams.

Looking Ahead: More Than Just Tournaments

While championships are a core part of NTSSA’s work, Andrew also sees a future where school sport is a tool for connection, confidence, and community.

“I’d love to see more events that focus less on competition and more on connection,” he says. “Imagine a tournament weekend that includes coaching seminars, leadership activities, or wellness sessions. Sport can be a pathway to so much more.”

One of his major upcoming projects includes a territory-wide needs assessment, aiming to better understand what each community requires to run effective, meaningful school sport programs.

A Territory-Wide Team Effort

NTSSA is still new, but it’s already growing fast, thanks to the commitment of educators, coaches, and community leaders across the NWT.

“We’re building something together,” Andrew says. “The goal is to strengthen what already exists and find new ways to support youth through sport.”

Want to get involved or bring an idea forward?
NTSSA is here to support all regions and welcomes community input. Reach out anytime, we’re building school sport together.