The Launch of the NTSSA Youth Photographer Program at Spike It Junior
This past weekend, something new happened at Spike It Junior. Yes, the volleyball was powerful. The cheers were loud. The moments unforgettable. But tucked behind the action, behind the camera lenses, something else came into focus, the quiet click of youth storytellers capturing the soul of school sport.
For the first time ever, the Youth Photographer Program was in action. And it was magic.
What It’s All About
Launched by NT School Sports, the Youth Photographer Program is a new initiative designed to empower young visual storytellers across the Northwest Territories. The goal? Support local youth, highlight the emotion and spirit of school sport, and develop a community of creatives who can see and share what sport feels like, not just what it looks like.
Through mentorship, access to live events, and guidance from professionals, youth participants gain the chance to develop skills, grow their artistic voice, and contribute meaningfully to sport storytelling in the North. Whether you’re just beginning or already passionate about photography, this is your chance to learn, grow, and be seen.
Participants also receive access to media release forms, photo guidelines, and tips for action photography.
First Impressions from the Fiel
Two of our first youth photographers, Lexi and Dylan, stepped behind the lens at Spike It Junior, and they brought back more than just images. They brought reflection, awareness, and pride.
Lexi’s Lens
“Since I’ve been in my school photography class, I’ve found love for capturing fun, cool, and important things.”
Lexi joined the program to explore something outside of sport, and found joy in freezing moments that matter.
Her favorite memory?
“Seeing all the positivity and teamwork in every game. It’s great to see kids work together, even if their volleyball skill levels are different.”
She especially enjoyed capturing serves and hunting for the best angles, learning the rhythm of the game through her viewfinder.
“I feel lucky to have had this opportunity. I’m very proud of the photos I’ve taken, they show how fun volleyball really is.”
Dylan’s Tak
“It was a no-brainer to join. I want to use this experience to fuel my hobby and hone my skills.”
Dylan found his passion during a photography course at St. Pat’s and has been covering school sports ever since. Spike It Junior gave him the chance to deepen that practice. His favorite moment came during the quarterfinal between Allain St-Cyr and William Mac, where the intensity reminded him of his own days playing in the same tournament.
“It brought me back to the memories and friendships I made. That’s what makes this program so meaningful.”
Dylan loved chasing dynamic action shots, the kind that require patience, timing, and a bit of luck.
“When the stars aligned and I got a crisp shot, it felt amazing. I kept learning and adjusting as the weekend went on. I’m proud of what I captured.”
And what stayed with him the most?
“Some of those athletes were doing incredible things, raw talent, leadership, athleticism. Being able to save those moments in time and share them with others … that makes me feel good.”
A New Kind of Highlight Reel
The Youth Photographer Program is more than a mentorship opportunity, it’s a space for students to see, be seen, and tell the stories that often go unnoticed. At Spike It Junior, these young photographers did just that, from capturing championship points to quiet team huddles, they showed us a side of the tournament only the lens can reveal.
Interested in joining? The program is open to all interested youth across the NWT. Whether you’re brand new or already snapping shots at school games, we invite you to grow with us. Sign up HERE.
Look out for photo galleries from Spike It Junior, credited to our youth photographers, and stay tuned for their next visual stories at Spike It Senior and beyond. This is only the beginning.
