Athletes have gathered in Yellowknife this week to compete for a chance to participate in the upcoming 2025 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse this March. Territorial tryouts are ongoing through the weekend for various sports including Dene games, table tennis, curling, badminton, hockey, volleyball, cross country skiing, wrestling, futsal, basketball, and Arctic sports. At the Chief Drygeese center, athletes recently engaged in a Dene game known as stick pull, where competitors must grip a stick coated with vegetable shortening and strive to maintain control against their opponent.
Tadeh Betsina from Dettah, who clinched the top spot, attributed his success to rigorous training involving lat pulls, wrist curls, and farmer carries to enhance his strength. He emphasized the importance of mental preparation and focus during the competition. Sifera Kenny-Takazo from Deline, participating for the third time, highlighted the unique opportunities the games offer in terms of travel, forming new friendships, and engaging in competitive sports.
Following the trials, participants from Deline were seen practicing stick pull while sharing light-hearted moments. Despite the camaraderie, Kenny-Takazo stressed the serious commitment of Deline’s athletes to secure a place in the games. She praised the games for fostering unity and providing valuable experiences for youth in the North. Kenny-Takazo encouraged newcomers to embrace the spirit of participation, emphasizing the significance of enjoying the process and connecting with others.
Indigenous games instructor Ty Lafferty expressed his enthusiasm for the games, describing them as a source of joy and positivity. He highlighted the satisfaction of passing on knowledge gained from personal experiences to support aspiring athletes. Inuvik’s Hayden Smith, a first-time competitor vying for a spot in the curling team, shared his excitement about competing alongside friends and leaning on their support during moments of nervousness.
Inuvik’s curling coach Nick Saturnino praised the robust curling program in the region, underscoring the value of providing competitive experiences to over 80 young participants. He emphasized the potential for youth to progress in the sport and possibly compete at national levels in the future. Coaches like Curtis Gruben emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication among athletes striving to secure team placements.
Brent Babiuk, a former youth athlete who previously participated in the Arctic Winter Games, now supports his daughter Avianna as she competes in the same event. Avianna expressed her desire to live up to the expectations and deliver a strong performance. The competitive atmosphere among female participants reflects the determination and commitment visible throughout the trials, with many aspiring athletes aiming to showcase their skills and earn a coveted spot on the team.
