Jeremy and Divine Lead Newfoundland & Labrador Toward 2027 Canada Winter Games
PHOTO: Karine Dumontier
Table Tennis in Newfoundland & Labrador is getting ready for another exciting chapter at the 2027 Canada Winter Games, and leading the charge are two passionate and dedicated coaches: Jeremy and Divine. Their story is one of mentorship, growth, representation, and a deep love for the sport that has brought them together in a shared mission to support the next generation of athletes.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
Jeremy’s connection to Table Tennis began as a young player participating in local tournaments across the province. A standout in the junior scene, he eventually stepped away from the sport, only to return years later—not as a competitor, but as a coach. When the opportunity to lead Team Newfoundland & Labrador at the 2023 Canada Winter Games came up, Jeremy stepped forward. That experience reignited his commitment to the sport, and since then, he has been active as both a coach and player, driven by a vision to grow table tennis across the province.
Divine’s path took a different shape. Arriving in Newfoundland during high school, she initially didn’t know the sport was available locally. But fate intervened when Jeremy spotted her playing recreationally and recognized her talent. Since then, she has blossomed as both an athlete and a coach. She competed at the 2023 Games under Jeremy’s leadership and will now return as the Assistant Coach, supporting the same program that once helped shape her own development.
From Coach and Athlete to Coaching Duo
Now, as Head Coach and Assistant Coach, Jeremy and Divine are working together to prepare a strong and cohesive team for the 2027 Games. For Jeremy, this collaboration is the fulfillment of a vision the two once spoke of while at the 2023 Games. “We are both quite young,” he shares, “so I like to think we bring a different sort of mindset and energy to the coaching and Games experience.”
Divine echoes this excitement: “It’s an amazing and fun week of competing, and I would like for the athletes to have fun and make friends like I did.”
Coaching in Newfoundland & Labrador: Unique Challenges, Strong Community
The coaching landscape in Newfoundland & Labrador is distinct. The province’s vast geography, from the east coast of St. John’s to the remote communities in Labrador—presents challenges in access and coordination. Jeremy notes, “With limited coaches in NL, and most living in St. John’s, most areas of the province have to rely on self-training to improve.”
Despite these logistical hurdles, the community’s spirit shines through. Divine points to the welcoming, eager-to-learn environment as one of NL’s greatest strengths: “There’s a lot of friendly people and players that are eager to learn more about Table Tennis.” Both Jeremy and Divine coach on a voluntary basis, driven not by financial incentives but by a shared love of sport and a desire to give back.
Growing Through National Initiatives
Divine is currently part of the Table Tennis Canada Women Coach Mentorship Program, a national initiative aimed at supporting the development of female coaches. She credits the program with helping her build confidence and skills, thanks to the encouragement, feedback, and shared experiences of other women in coaching.
“At first, I felt scared and nervous,” she admits. “But having that safe space to communicate has meant so much to me. I now feel confident in how I teach the kids and serve as a good example.”
Jeremy, a member of the Table Tennis Canada EDI Committee, also values the role of national initiatives in creating space for diverse voices. “It’s very cool to be part of making decisions that help make the sport more diverse and accessible,” he says.
The Power of Representation
Representation in sport is personal for both coaches. Divine sees her presence in the coaching ranks as a way to inspire more girls and women to participate: “Especially to female players, I want them to feel that they can do it like male players can. They shouldn’t doubt their ability or their gender to achieve something big.”
Jeremy agrees. As a teacher and coach, he understands the importance of creating opportunities for all youth, and he recognizes the value Divine brings: “Her skill, her knowledge, her demeanor, everyone loves and respects her. She’s a fantastic role model.”
Looking Ahead to 2027
With the road to 2027 underway, both Jeremy and Divine are focused on building a team that will thrive both on and off the court. They’re starting the team selection process early to allow for more team-building, fun, and preparation.
“Success isn’t just about medals,” says Jeremy. “It’s about the memories, the growth, and the friendships that athletes carry with them.” Divine adds: “Success is when athletes improve, grow, and feel comfortable enough to come to me with their concerns. Being able to help them achieve their goals means everything.”
Their shared vision, anchored in compassion, equity, and community, will no doubt shape a meaningful Games experience for Team NL in 2027.
