One of the most encouraging stories from the recent Arctic Winter Games was not only what happened on the court, but what happened around it. Louna, from Québec City, took part in the Arctic Winter Games as a major official, gaining valuable experience in a multi-sport environment that will help support her continued development as an official on the road to the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Québec City.
Louna brings a strong background in Table Tennis. She has played the sport for 10 years, represented Team Québec for several years, participated in the Québec Games, and competed at national events including the Canadian Championships. But her journey in table tennis has expanded beyond being an athlete. “I started to be an official because I want to stay in the table tennis world,” she shared. “Being an official allows me to see other things than just being a player, and it also allows me to travel, which is very nice.”
That desire to stay connected to the sport, while continuing to grow in a new role, made the Arctic Winter Games a meaningful opportunity. For Louna, the experience went beyond officiating matches. It was also about being part of a larger Games environment and learning from the people around her. “I decided to come here because I think it’s a very great experience for me,” she said. “I have been able to meet incredible persons, athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, which is very nice.”
Her participation was made possible through the support of the Arctic Winter Games, and it was wonderful to see that kind of investment in future officials. A special thank you goes to Brian, the sport chair, for including her and helping create this opportunity. This was also a great example of connection and collaboration across the Table Tennis community. Table Tennis Canada helped make the connection, including linking the opportunity with Côme from Québec City, who is serving as sport chair for table tennis at the 2027 Canada Winter Games.
This is what capacity building can look like in action. It is not always loud. Sometimes it is simply making sure someone has the opportunity to be there, to observe, to learn, to contribute, and to take the next step in their pathway. When officials are given the chance to grow through experiences like the Arctic Winter Games, the impact extends far beyond one event. It strengthens the sport, builds confidence, creates relationships, and helps prepare the people who will shape future national events.
Louna already has her next goal in mind. “My big challenge is to be an official at the next Canada Games that will be in Québec City next year.” From one Games to the next, this is how pathways are built. Step by step, moment by moment.
A heartfelt thank you to Louna for her commitment to the sport, to Brian for his support, to the Arctic Winter Games for making space for this opportunity, and to everyone working behind the scenes to connect and strengthen the officiating pathway in Canada.
This is the kind of growth our sport needs, and it is inspiring to see it happening.
