As NWT School Sports wraps up its inaugural year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the people, events, and energy that have shaped this exciting journey. From hosting territory, wide championships to supporting student participation across the North, this first year has been about listening, learning, and laying the foundation for the future of school sport.

At the center of it all is Executive Director Andrew Gilmour, who stepped into the role in early 2024. With a background in sport leadership and education, Andrew has brought a clear vision: to create inclusive, high quality events that help students build confidence, character, and lasting memories through sport.

Highlights from the First Year

One of Andrew’s first experiences was the NWT Power Corporation Junior Cager basketball championships, an introduction to the passion and dedication that make school sport possible. From there, he traveled across the territory, supporting events like track and field in Hay River, where entire communities came together to create something special for their students.

In December, NTSSA hosted its largest-ever badminton tournament, thanks to renewed efforts to bring in out-of-town schools. Participation is bouncing back post-COVID, and the response from students, teachers, and coaches has been overwhelmingly positive.

Table Tennis and Territory-Wide Impact

The 2025 NWT School Table Tennis Championships marked a perfect closing event for the year, filled with energy, smiles, and support from across the North. For Andrew, it was also a proud moment to witness athletes from the Sahtu Region, including Fort Good Hope, take home the middle school banner with sportsmanship and pride.

The Bigger Picture

“School sports matter,” says Andrew. “For many students, it’s the reason they stay engaged in school. It creates moments they’ll remember for life.”

He believes in making events meaningful, accessible, and well-supported, and that starts with listening to educators, communities, and partners across the territory.

Looking ahead, NTSSA’s goal is to work hand-in-hand with schools and Territorial Sport Organizations to introduce more sports into schools and expand opportunities for youth to get active and involved.

Moving Forward

As NTSSA prepares for its second year, we’re excited to continue building relationships, growing participation, and ensuring school sport reflects the diversity and strength of the North.

Have questions, ideas, or want to get involved? We’re here to support you. Let’s keep the spirit of school sport alive, together.