Wednesday, March 7, 2012

An athlete for Team competes in the - at Grey Mountain

Photo credit: DAVID MUSSELWHITE

2 News: Soccer Boys Dream Big...6 published by From The Podium: Results... 10

Games Gear Secrets: Shoes... 2 News Wednesday, March 7, 2012 • 2012 Winter Games THE DAILY HYPE AWG NEWS AND UP & COMINGS

BY THE NUMBERS SOCCER BOYS SNOWSHOE ALLOW THEMSELVES Ten different events are packed into three days of snowshoe action at the 2012 Arctic Winter TO DREAM BIG Games. Let’s have a look at At the it’s an indoor sport, but for some some more numbers that players the glory of outdoor football might just be within reach. make up this sport. by THOMAS SCHOENEICH

They call it the world game. Soc- a thousand and twelve hundred each 6,000 – years ago peoples in central Asia already used cer’s governing body, FIFA, is one of year in the minor program.” . the largest sport associations on the The Alberta North boys Spaidal globe. The game is played across all took to Whitehorse have shown some 1843 – year the Montreal Snow Shoe Club was the world’s continents – with the cir- strong performances so far. They won formed. The first of its kind cumpolar world being no exception. their first three matches on Monday in the world. Each of the nine participating and Tuesday, including two dominant contingents has sent at least one in- 10-goal-margin victories against Nu- 1974 – year snowshoeing debuted as an Arctic door soccer team to the 2012 Arctic navut and Alaska. Winter Games Sport. Winter Games. And, even in a hock- “We are equal; everybody (on our ey-crazy nation like , the love team) is strong. I think we play well 813 – minimum length in millimetres a snowshoe has for the game with the ball occasion- together,” 14-year old Jared Larson to have to be considered ally overtakes the love for the game said. legal. with the puck. Jared, whose role model is Bra- “It () is the number zilian star midfielder Kaka, started 220 – minimum width in millimetres a snowshoe has one most participated sport,” Chris the sport at the age of 5. He is cur- to have. Spaidal said, who coaches Alberta rently playing for the North’s Juvenile Male soccer team. Wolves and would love to show his 100 – shortest snowshoe- “In the community where I am skills on a higher level one day. He ing event distance in metres at the 2012 Arctic from, Grande Prairie, hockey has, already represented Alberta North as Winter Games. I believe, 850 enrolled. Indoor soc- part of the region’s U-13 team. cer in our community has between Chris Spaidal thinks that these 10 – longest snowshoeing event distance in kilome- opportunities are continuously im- tres at the 2012 AWG. proving for young kids in Canada. “It’s actually starting to get a lot 4 – regular number of better. I’ve coached with the Alberta athletes in a snowshoe relay team. However, it is provincial outdoor teams and we’ve possible for a contingent to Soccer is right up had six players last year going to the enter a three person team (Vancouver) Whitecaps Residency. with one athlete complet- there with hockey. And we have a bunch of players in ing the course twice. Jared’s age who are our future pros- 2 – maximum of false starts Hockey is big, but pects for the Whitecaps residency “Toronto,” 14-year-old Dolye Al- It’s a sport that’s easy to pick up on.” allowed for any snowshoe- program.” he said. gona, captain of ’s Juvenile Nunavut’s Juvenile Male coach Paul ing event. The competitor we have a lot of “So it’s definitely gotten better, Male team, said when asked where he Stroeder said. who commits a third or especially with the implementation would love to play soccer one day. “It doesn’t cost a lot of money, it subsequent false start will players in every of MLS (Major League Soccer) and Even in a region like Nunavut, gets the kids out. They show up. They be disqualified. now having professional franchises in where cold temperatures dominate don’t have to worry about trying to 1.1 – minimum weight in community. It’s a Canada.” for most of the year, soccer rivals find someone to afford the gear for kilograms for a pair of Jared Larson is not the only young hockey. them and the registration fees. It’s snowshoes complete with sport that’s easy boy taking the field at the Canada “Soccer is right up there with basically: We play at 7 o’clock; show bindings. Games Centre who allows himself to hockey. Hockey is big, but we have up, we’ll get you on a team or a club to pick up on. dream big every now and then. a lot of players in every community. and we’ll have some fun.” Whitehorse • Wednesday, March 7, 2012 ULU News 3 TOP For many young TWEETS competitors, @YukonSylvie this is their Thanks @jianghomeshi for the mention of the Olympics. #awg2012 in Whitehorse, almost everyone is a Cross-Country Ski volunteer! Team Coach Alain Masson, seen here with son Sasha, @awg2012 and friend Ava Blue. If you’re up at the CGC, check out the live performances at the ATCO stage. They are free! #awg2012 http://awg2012.org/en/ WATCH Culture/cgc_performanc YOURSELF es.aspx

IN ACTION! @accidentalpics Let the pinsanity begin. AWG Daily on TV (White- Some #CBC folks have horse cable channel 9) pins for trade at and a YouTube gadget #AWG2012. In bronze, near you. New episodes YUKON’S FIRST FAMILY OF silver and of course, at 9 pm daily during the GOLD!!! http://pic.twitter.com/1 Games. CROSS COUNTRY SKIING XFE71ka Day 3: Tuesday, March by JOEL WHITTEN 6 edition: @Makaylafarrell If Alain Masson looks little a bit He would know. Modest and un- family who is closest to competing Shout out to #awg2012 tired, you can forgive him. Masson failingly polite, Masson would be the in this year’s Games is nine year old Arctic Sports volunteers! Your all has just returned from another one of last to tell you that he is a three time Sasha, who piped up that he prefers awesome his whirlwind tours of the globe. In Olympian, who competed in both the Arctic Winter Games Ulu medals Table Tennis 48 continuous hours, he traveled from summer and winter . to the medals handed out at the Olym- Pin Trading Whitehorse to Vancouver, Vancouver He started his career competing pics. With his pedigree, one gets the @bnmeister Circumpolar Soundscape to London, London to Istanbul, and at regional events like the feeling he’ll have at least one of those A new line of #awg show at the Yukon Arts finally from Istanbul to Erzurum in Games and has seen many successful to call his own soon enough. condoms is hittin' the Centre Eastern Turkey. athletes, like recent Yukon Olympi- The whole family likened the town today...what do Once in Erzurum, he helped ans Zach Bell and Jeane Lassen, get Arctic Winter Games to a mini- you think athletes say? AWG Daily captures the coach three young Yukoners to per- their start at events like the Arctic Olympics, recognizing that both are #athletessay flavour and pizazz of the sonal bests at the 2012 Under-23 Winter Games. international events, where athletes http://www.hss.gov.yk.c Games. Yukoner Chris World Junior Cross Country Skiing As we discussed recent Olym- gather not only to compete, but to a/awg.php Championships. Then, with skis and pians, Masson’s wife Lucy Steele- learn about other cultures, and to McNutt gives us a small wax kit in tow, he boarded another Masson stopped preparing dinner broaden personal experiences. sampling of the energy series of red-eye flights, rushing back long enough to ask, tongue firmly in As young Sasha joined the con- and excitement hap- to Whitehorse just in time to guide cheek, “Do I count as a recent?” versation, our attention returned @chiconeige pening around town. the Yukon Cross Country Ski Team Steele-Masson represented Cana- to those with their athletic careers Games mascot Borealis Catch the faces of the into the 2012 Arctic Winter Games. da in cross country skiing at the 1992 ahead of them, and the Yukon Cross gets dog tag from Whitehorse #cbcnorth kids, spot someone you Sitting across from him at his Winter Olympics, and also has fond Country Ski Team’s coach and wax kitchen table, Masson tells me of memories of her experiences at the technician extraordinaire, appropri- #awg2012 know, see the action the importance of the Arctic Winter 1982 Arctic Winter Games, neither ately noted, “an event like the Arctic http://yfrog.com/kfu3tdrj and feel the electrifying Games in the development of elite of which could truly be referred to as Winter Games gives young people a energy in the air. athletes, noting that, “for many young recent. true taste of what international com- competitors, this is their Olympics.” Truth be told, the member of this petition is all about.”

"People would say, 'Girls don't play hockey. Girls don't skate.' I would say, 'Watch this.'" Hayley Wickenheiser

OFFICIAL Supporting Sport...because it matters. SUPPLIER 4 ULU News Wednesday, March 7, 2012 • Whitehorse 2012 Arctic Winter Games THE PLAYERS THE WHO’S WHO OF THE GAMES

foot,” she says. KNEE INJURY DOESN’T STOP Dickson deems this an “abso- lutely amazing” development – for Rivard it’s also a great relief. RIVARD FROM KICKING HIGH “Being able to do Arctic Sports is by THOMAS SCHOENEICH a big achievement for me this year, because since my surgery I haven’t been able to do any sport.” Punching above her weight is not combined results. lete. I want her to come back into the “Since I’m an athletic person, Anna Rivard’s business, what she And even though Rivard has senior’s category knowing that she it’s so depressing not being able to loves is kicking above her height. moved into the Open Women catego- belongs there,” Dickson says. “And I do anything you want to do. So be- The 1.65 metre-tall girl is one of ry, she is set to leave her mark at the want us to have fun – that’s number ing able to do this definitely brings Team Yukon’s stand-out athletes. With 2012 Games. one.” my mood up and keeps me in a good 1.78 metres in the Alaskan High Kick “It’s a little more nerve-wracking Rivard’s journey to this year’s mood all the time.” and 8.31 metres in the Triple Jump because it’s a hometown event and competition is remarkable as she To ease pressure from the injured she holds two Arctic Sports records – you get this ‘everyone you know will spent a good part of the past twelve knee, Rivard will bow out of the the only Yukon athlete among record watch me’ – kind of feeling,” Rivard months on crutches. kneel jump and compete in just six holders from otherwise mainly Alaska admits. “At the same time, it’s all of Also being a professional gym- of the seven Arctic Sports events. But and the NWT. the Yukon cheering for you, so you nast, she injured herself last year and topping the competition once again is She set both records at the 2010 get this boost when you compete.” had to undergo a complicated knee still on her mind. AWG in Grande Prairie, Alberta. Coach Teena Dickson, herself a surgery – and since she tore muscles “I definitely enjoy getting med- Back then, she dominated the com- multiple AWG-participant who com- in her right knee, Rivard had to learn als,“ Rivard says. “I’m hoping to get petition, winning two gold and five peted in five different sports, believes to kick with her opposite foot. a gold in maybe the arm pull and the silver medals in the Junior category that Rivard can handle the pressure. “I used to kick with my right foot triple jump but other than that, we’ll plus another all-around gold for her “We know that she’s an amazing ath- but now I’m kicking with my left just see who I compete against.”

Plamondon. A team of AWG security volunteers BE SMART, BE SAFE is working closely with law enforce- ment and other security and emergency response teams to keep areas such as AND LOOK OUT FOR the athletes’ villages, athletic venues and social/ cultural events safe to en- ONE ANOTHER sure participants and guests are happy, by BRIGITTE PARKER healthy and secure. Wearing yellow arm bands, these volunteers obtained their security clear- Safety and security for large sport- RCMP Constable Kelly Plam- ances and received training on how to ing and cultural events can range from ondon is the Security Planner for the deal with minor annoyances such as the obscure - violation of noise restric- AWGs. She spent the last year plan- loud, inappropriate spectators to fol- tions - to the serious - illness or injury ning to identify the potential risks and lowing protocols in an emergency. of participants. concerns and implementing solutions There are up to 700 volunteers as- Anything can happen during a on how to handle these risks. She also sisting with security at the 15 AWG major event: an outbreak of flu in the established and implemented emer- facilities and venues. And these volun- athletes’ residence or frozen water lines gency and security plans for the ven- teers will be kept busy: over 200 shifts that disrupt services to a sports facility ues and coordinated with other agen- were assigned at one venue alone! The to crowd and traffic control. cies such as the Hospital, Ambulance dormitories are fully staffed 24 hours The Arctic Winter Games Security and Fire Department to ensure a quick a day with a minimum of two security Planning Team is striving to strike a response should any worst-case sce- personnel available at all times. balance between ensuring a safe and narios occur. In the end, Cst. Plamondon offers enjoyable atmosphere for participants, “The bottom line is to ensure the this advice for AWG athletes and par- You can easily identify the AWG security volunteers who are wearing yellow spectators and guests, while not inter- athletes are happy, healthy and re- ticipants: “Be smart, be safe, have fun arm bands and are available to help at any time. fering with the goodwill of the Games. turn home safe and sound,” said Cst. and look out for one another.”

Xerox Canada Ltd. salutes the athletes of The Arctic Winter Games Whitehorse 2012 Arctic Winter Games • Wednesday, March 7, 2012 ULU News 5 MEET THE GREEN TEAM Q?A ULU GETS TO KNOW YOU The Green Team doesn’t give 100%. by Indra Kley In fact, it’s only aiming to give 30% at the 2012 Games. by GLENDA KOH In the sport of waste reduction, this worry, just keep practicing. Once it means that the Green Team is hoping becomes second nature, you’ll be on that 70% of the waste generated by the your way to elite levels of compe- Games is diverted into either compost tence. or recycling. For those not familiar with the This goal is on the high side of sport, compostables are all the food reasonable. Green Team coordinator waste and paper wrappers that will Sabine Schweiger, explains, “A mu- break down into a soggy mess and nicipality that offers curbside pickup eventually dirt if you leave them out- can aim for a diversion rate of 70%.” side in a big heap. Sara Birkely (14), Cross Country Many municipalities aim more in the Keep your eyes out for the unex- Skiing, Team Sápmi neighbourhood of 50%. pected participants in the composting Perhaps you’ve seen the trios of game, though. Paper plates, certain Is it your first time at the bins and wondered about the brief brands of disposable cups, and special ing hard for the Games. A few key weiger says, “Our volunteers are Arctic Winter Games? pause everyone takes before throwing compostable cutlery can also go in the decisions were made early on. The rare, but dedicated.” Yes. It is my first Games. It’s something into one of them. At every compost. Host Society decided not to offer Danny Lewis, a first time Green amazing! I like it a lot. I like waste station, there is one bin for each Refundables include all pre-pack- non-compostable or non-reusable Team volunteer, says “It feels great to it the most that there are of compostables, recyclables and gar- aged drink containers, such as water plates and utensils, such as Styro- be a part of a team that is working to- so many people here to- bage respectively. bottles, juice boxes and aluminum foam, as well as limit the number of wards keeping the Games clean and gether. The Arctic Winter That brief pause is the time that it cans. meals that would be available outside presentable, but also helping dem- Games are really big games. takes your brain to figure out which Garbage includes everything else, of the athletes’ cafeteria. Other mea- onstrate good habits towards waste bin the trash goes in. If you’re a high- such as packaging containing any sures included encouraging the food reduction and separation.” You are from Kautokeino, ly skilled waste sorter who has trained plastic or foil. Sadly, the coffee cups vending contractor to provide low Finally, a sport that everyone at Norway. How is the weather back home at the moment? for years, as many Yukon athletes are, provided by a couple of very popular waste services. the Games can participate in regard- it takes but a nano-second to deter- national coffee retailers are also not Finding volunteers to cart waste less of age, physical ability, or coor- It’s a little bit different. mine which bin to use. compostable or recyclable. from thousands of teenagers and dination! A sport where the more you Where I live in Norway If you’re new to the sport, don’t The Green Team has been train- spectators is no small task. As Sch- eat, the better you get. it’s around 20 below. In Whitehorse it’s warmer.

What is your goal for the Games? I want to do the best I can do. I want to play my Groundwork part! To win would be fun – but it’s not so impor- Sessions tant to me.

performs for What do you do in your the crowd from down time here? I rest. I make new friends. the ATCO Stage I met people from all over Canada already, from the in the Canada Yukon, from Alberta and all the other territories. I Games Centre listen to the music on my iPod (Rock & Pop, no Photo by BRUCE BARRETT artist or band in particu- lar). And I go shopping!

Do you have any rituals before a race? The team stands together and we just say: “Come on, we can do this!”

yukon energy keeping tradition in play 6 ULU News Wednesday, March 7, 2012 • Whitehorse 2012 Arctic Winter Games THE VIEW FROM UP HERE NEWS FROM THE PODIUM QUOTE OF THE DAY

“I already busted my clapping noisemaker and it’s only Tuesday morning!”

NWT volleyball fan PREVIEW: SMELLS LIKE HOCKEY AWG ULU COUNT by JOEL WHITTEN As of 7:00pm Tuesday, March 6 “Smells like hockey players in who the opposition’s best players are, Size: here,” said one spectator as he entered and seeing how one squad matches Lots of players have proven this CONTINGENT TOTAL the rink. He was right. That mixture up against the other. wrong, but size sure helps. Strength of sweat, chilled air, and pre-game From the bleachers, it’s about see- is handy too. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• excitement was in the air. ing some of the best hockey the host Puck Handling: Alaska 13 17 16 46

On the first full day of 2012 Arctic city has seen in years and trying to If you can keep the puck on your •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Winter Games, eight hockey games predict which players will rise to oc- stick, the other team can’t get it. were played. Female and Male teams casion, stand out, and lead their teams Shot: Yukon 11 13 8 32 from Alaska, Alberta North, North- to the medal round. Accuracy, speed of release, and •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• west Territories, Nunavut and Yukon Looking for the players with power all make for a great shot. all took to the ice. the right stuff is a talent unto itself. Hockey IQ: NWT 8811 27 Takhini Arena and the Canada Fortunately, I ran into a number of Be in the right position, see the •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Winter Games Centre saw their ice seasoned hockey minds during the ice well, and use your teammates. Yamal 10 9625 surfaces cleaned, scraped, hacked, course of the game, among them Drive: •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• gouged and then resurfaced again, Bob Unger, who spent over a decade Work ethic always separates great Alberta and again, and again. as a scout for the Western Hockey players from good ones. North 845 17 Hundreds of players, fans, offi- League’s Kamloops Blazers. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• cials, and volunteers trooped in and From Bob and the other hockey On this night, the 4-2 final score out of these rinks. From the hats, jer- watching and playing veterans I met showed that Team Northwest Terri- Nunavut 234 9 seys, jackets and smiles on their faces in the crowd, I learned what to look tories Midget Males had more of the •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• you could tell that they were all here for when trying to spot the best play- qualities that make up good hockey 402 6 for just one thing: hockey. ers. So, if you want to see or be the players. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Takhini Arena was nearly full as best as you head out to the good old But, this was only one game and Midget Male teams from Yukon and hockey game, keep these things in there is plenty of great Arctic Win- Québec 213 6 faced off for mind: ter Games hockey left for the play- •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• the last game of the day. This early Skating Ability: ers and their teams to show that they in the tournament, it isn’t about the The best skaters are usually the have what it takes to stand out from Sàpmi 110 2 medals yet. It’s about teams learning best players. the crowd. Prepaid Wireless has arrived Finally, the super-easy-no-commitments-pay-as-you-go Get Latitude cell phone option you’ve always wanted is HERE! Prepaid Wireless, the no strings attached cellular solution.

Powered by Northwestel in partnership Visit a local Latitude Retailer to Whitehorse with Dakwakada Development Corporation Latitude Wireless Kiosk (Shoppers Drug Mart) purchase Prepaid phones and cards. nd Official Supplier of the Whitehorse 2012 Northwestel Retail Centre (2 Ave. and Lambert) 1-866-803-2365 Whitehorse 2012 Arctic Winter Games • Wednesday, March 7, 2012 ULU News 7 CLOSE-UPS & SNAPSHOTS YOUR PHOTOS More photos available on the AWG Flickr website: http://www.flickr.com/photos/awg2012/

1 Hockey midget males (NWT vs Yukon) bat- tle for the puck at Takhini Arena (Photo by Tim Hogan) 2 Cultural presentation at the CGC (Photo by Ruth Borgfjord) 3 Wrestlers from Team Alaska and Team Nunavut (Photo by Ruth Borgf- jord) 4 Team Nunavut spikes the ball (Photo by Cozmo Ace Malzarby) 5 A figure skater waves the Yukon flag (Photo by Cozmo Ace Malzarby) 6 Curlers at the Mt McIntyre Rec Centre (Photo by Cozmo Ace Malzarby) 7 Speed skaters take the corner (Photo by Tim Hogan) 8 Sacred fire at the KDFN Cultural Centre (Photo by Bruce Barrett)

Presenting Sponsor of the Cultural Festival Visit the Yukon Electrical downtown office and receive your “Lighting up the North” collector pen! (quantities limited)

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and whipping them into shape. NEIGHBOURS SHARE This Arctic Winter Games team might have an edge as many of them play together in the regular season. DREAM OF AWG GOLD Some of their lines will be the same and by SARA BERGQUIST they have had time to gel as a team and have gotten used to playing with each When the Yukon Amateur Hockey cation to make it on the team and now other. They are pumped to meet new Association released the rosters for Yu- most of their spare time has been spent people and play against this field of kon’s three Arctic Winter Games teams, preparing for the Games. Between skilled teams, especially in front of the two of the names on the Bantam team games and practices, they are spending home crowd. list were Levi Johnson and Jack Blisner. six days a week on the ice. Like many Coach Blisner is also looking for- I visited these athletes and their fami- Arctic Winter Games athletes, they en- ward to seeing his team come face-to- lies so I could find out more about their joy staying active and participating in face with these teams and anticipates thoughts on the Arctic Winter Games. other sports. Some of their favourites Alaska and Alberta North will be two Here’s what I learned… include fastball, , biking, teams to keep an eye on. No matter the Levi and Jack are next-door neigh- and playing golf. sport, the competition at the Games is bours. They have been friends for nine It’s not only the athletes who exhibit guaranteed to be fierce, and Jack and years. They have been teammates for this dedication to their sport. Levi’s dad, Levi are focused on excellence. When six years and currently play on the Rob, said he drives his son to practices all is said and done, they want to be Whitehorse Bantam A Mustangs during and games and they have travelled to standing on the podium with Ulu med- the regular season. They are among the play in tournaments. He is very excited als around their necks. youngest players on the team and this about his son getting a chance to expe- Levi and Jack can be seen on the is their first time playing in the Arctic rience the Games. Jack’s dad is Barry awg2012 YouTube channel where you Winter Games. Blisner. He is one of the team’s coaches can watch them debate the importance It took quite a bit of work and dedi- and has been busy running practices of offense vs. defense. GUINEA PIG: ON THE FLOOR by INDRA KLEY In less than half a year the newly thought it would be enough to have arm. Thank God he is laughing. I re- founded Yukon Team got big thighs... Instead, I’m feeling even ally didn’t want to injure one of Team ready for competing at the Arctic if I had muscles and a strong inner Yukon’s athletes just before the AWG Winter Games. Will someone be able core, I still wouldn’t be able to stay start. to keep up with them in less than a on top. It’s just too difficult to under- “Wrestling has rules and limita- day? For the Ulu News guinea-pig stand the moves. “It looks simple but tions so that you don’t get hurt,” ex- series, it’s worth to try. it’s not,” Mary Jane admits. “It’s a lot plains team member Antoine Broeckx It takes two minutes until Mary of subtle steps.” later on, “but you are still able to use Jane Allison, Team Yukon’s wrestling The crossface for example, that your strength and weight.” To gain coach, is pinned to the floor. 117 sec- Mary Jane and wrestler Kieran Char- strength, the team does three two- onds longer than it should. Still, she ron-Ohagan demonstrate. It looks hour work-out sessions per week. An- and the three team members that join pretty logical – until it’s my turn. I am other three two-hour training sessions us that day are excited. “That’s a half supposed to pin Kieran who is kneel- are spent on the mat. nelson, you have just done the pin! ing on the floor. I have to turn him, For me, it’s also time to get back Congratulations,” Mary Jane shouts. who is a head taller than I am, around on the mat. 14-year-old Kim Cleve- I did it. My first wrestling move so that his back touches the ground. land shows a double-leg takedown ever. And although it was in slow- Mary Jane gives instructions. “Cross on Mary Jane. The featherweight motion, I am exhausted. One half nel- his face with this arm, put the other lifts her up, turns and drops her off son and I feel half dead already – and arm under the stomach, pull it up to her shoulder. I am impressed by her it’s only the beginning of our training your hip, now push that way, walk strength. “Don’t let them fool you,” team is cheering. So I am just 72 moves away from session. around the head, push the ear in the says Mary Jane. “It’s all about phys- With those three moves I’ve Team Yukon. Wrestling requires strength and stomach, don’t let go of his arm,” she ics and balance.” Now it’s my go. learned I could enter a wrestling Wrestling matches take place at balance. Two assets I am obviously shouts. I lose track – and end up with And this last move is a success: I lift match, says Mary Jane. Antoine, Ki- Yukon College on Monday, Wednes- lacking as the training reveals. And I my ear on Kieran’s belly, twirling his Kim and throw her on the mat. The eran and Kim know about 75 moves. day and Thursday.

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NWI_4066_AWG_Ulu_News_Thank_You_Logistics_Ad.indd 1 12-02-10 4:20 PM 10 ULU News Wednesday, March 7, 2012 • Whitehorse 2012 Arctic Winter Games CULTURAL BEAT YOUR DAILY DOSE OF AWG CULTURE GET KDFN CULTURAL CENTRE: GAMES GEAR PINNED WHERE DENE GAMES PIN OF THE DAY MEET FIRE & WATER Team Yukon pin. by HEATHER LEDUC Predicted to be a There’s a new landmark on the cultural site and it signifies our return favourite, Team Whitehorse waterfront, and it’s about to the area that was once occupied by Yukon’s pin, featur- to come alive with two First Nation many of our people,” Dene Games traditions. One is about sportsman- chair Shirley Dawson said. ing a Husky with a ship, the other is about spirituality, but The Sacred Fire was lit during bobbling head is both build relationships and strength- a ceremony on Sunday, March 4 at Quinn’s shoes show the element of surprise. Top is the Teflon proving to elicit en community. 10:00 am. Another ceremony will be coated shoe for sliding and bottom is the rubber gripper for During the Arctic Winter Games, held Saturday, March 10, at noon to balance. These are definitely not street shoes! excitement on day Kwanlin Dün First Nation (KDFN) is allow the Sacred Fire to burn out. All 2 of official pin opening the doors of its spectacular are welcome to attend the ceremonies new cultural centre to host the Dene and to visit the Sacred Fire throughout CURLING – IT’S ALL trading. Demand Games. Introduced in 1990, the five the week. Fire Keepers Phil Gatensby, for this pin has events that comprise the Dene Games Johnny Brass and their apprentices ABOUT THE SHOES reflect the cultural values of camara- will be on hand to provide guidance by KAREN KEELEY soared because of derie, friendly competition and, in the to visitors. its unique features case of Dene Hand Games, friendly On Wednesday, March 7 the ir- Tina Persinger and Quinn Evanson from Fairbanks, Alaska have their and difficulty to deception. repressible Sharon Shorty and Duane own particular brand of style for their particular sport. The two of them For the first time ever, as part of Aucoin will host an evening of music, have been curling since childhood. Now in their teens, they wear special obtain – this pin the Dene Games, a ceremonial Sacred dance, drumming and visual arts at curling shoes that may look like your typical running shoe but they have cannot be bought; Fire will be lit on the cultural centre the cultural centre. a grip on the bottom of one shoe to stop from sliding. grounds. The fire will offer athletes The show opens with a song from “If you just wear normal sport shoes out there, you can’t grip the ice at it can only be with a place to rejuvenate spiritually. the Rising Sun trio of Patti Boss, Vio- all,” said Quinn. “Teflon or steel coats the other shoe so it’s slippery and then traded with a It will also foster greater understand- la Papequash and Lacey Scarff. These you can slide out along the ice.” A protective rubber gripper covers that shoe when a curler doesn’t want to slide. It’s all very aerodynamic. Yukon athlete. ing of First Nations culture for all who women and their powerful perfor- visit the fire and its keepers. mances live up to their warrior inspi- Curlers wear their team jackets during competition along with extra in- Once lit, the Sacred Fire requires ration, and Scarff’s vocals are a force sulation because it can get cold on the ice, especially if standing around. “It’s constant care. Phil Gatensby is the to be reckoned with. not said that we have to, but most of us just wear black pants,” said Tina. Lead Fire Keeper, responsible for en- The event is also the official open- “Usually stretchy pants because they’re more comfortable.” suring the Sacred Fire remains lit and ing of Sewing Our Traditions: the Tina doesn’t have any superstitions but she did admit that if she had providing guidance. Dolls of Canada’s North exhibition a certain scrunchy in her hair, and they won, then yes – she could keep “Traditional teachings and cer- with an introduction from the show’s wearing that scrunchy as a good luck charm. emonies are as relevant today as they curator, Jennifer Allen. The show will Quinn tells us with a good deal of laughter, “Sometimes we have differ- were in the times of our ancestors,” also feature dolls from the circumpo- ent team shirts. Whatever we’re wearing – if we win, then we wear that same Gatensby remarked. “They are the lar north. shirt again until we lose. Once the tournament is over, then we wash them.” blueprints that guide us. It is what Fire Keeper Phil Gatensby will Travel is expensive so they don’t get outside much, but they have connects us to nature and the world also be part of the celebration, as well travelled to the Junior Nationals in Wisconsin and Minnesota. To make above us. As well, it helps us realize dancers Victoria and Sabrina Fred and Team Alaska, Tina Persinger and Quinn Evanson successfully navigated and respect the gift of air, land, water Sean Smith. The evening will wrap up individual tryouts and a skills competition along with a written portion Check out this and fire.” with a final song from Lacey Scarff, pertaining to their knowledge about curling. There are four members each pin on a Team For KDFN, hosting of the Games followed by a public round dance. on the women’s and men’s Alaskan teams. As veterans of previous Arctic Winter Games, Tina and Quinn dress Yukon athlete or and the lighting of the Sacred Fire The show begins at 7:00 pm and mark a turning point in the First Na- is free of charge. Refreshments will with style, speak with style and represent their sport with style. We wish a lucky trader tion’s historic connection to the Yu- be available, and guests may also pur- them the best of luck as they continue with their individual competitions around town! kon River. chase items from visual and craft art- in Curling at the 2012 Arctic Winter Games. “It is the first major event at the ists who will be at the show. WELCOME On behalf of the Yukon Liberal the Arctic. The Games bring out the CAUCUS Caucus, we’d like to welcome all best in everyone, providing all of our Darius Elias athletes, officials, coaches, dignitaries, solid citizens and future leaders with MLA Klondike MLA Vuntut Gwitchin [email protected] Interim Leader volunteers, and visitors to the 2012 a sense of camaraderie and allowing (867)393-7007 [email protected] Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse. them to forge lasting friendships. (867)456-6710 The Arctic Winter Games is a proud tradition, uniting representatives from It is an honour to have the 2012 the circumpolar world through the Arctic Winter Games hosted in the passion, endurance and teamwork of Yukon this year. Good luck to all sport, and allowing us to showcase participants, and to those visiting, our vibrant living cultures throughout welcome to our beautiful territory! Whitehorse 2012 Arctic Winter Games • Wednesday, March 7, 2012 ULU News 11 THANK-YOU The 2012 Arctic Winter Games would not be possible without the following sponsors! Partners Funding/ Community esenting Legacy Partners Klondike Pr

Gwìch’inat Eenjit Gàdatr’igwijìlcheii Gidilii ctic Gwich’in Tribal Council

Ar Gwich’in Development Corporation eal Bor ficial Of Suppliers Polar

Lackowicz & Hoffman

NORTHERN CROSS

• Business Development • Yukon Chamber of Mines • Staples • Wildland Fire Management • Super Save Propane Bank of Canada • Yukon Gold Mining Alliance • Kiwi Contracting • Physio Plus • Yukon Geological Survey • Acme Analytical Labs • Challenge Community • ALS Minerals • Bank of Montreal • Yukon Government Department • Victoria Gold Vocational Alternatives • Kluane Drilling • Northerm of Education • Medicine Chest Pharmacy • Northern Trailer • First Nations Bank • Vandelay Systems •Yukon Government Economic • Easy Home • Manitoulin Transport • Arctic Construction Games • Northern Tales • Centennial Motors • Yukon Government Highways

• Integraphics Development Friends of the Games Supporters • Jacob’s Industries Ltd. • MacKay LLP and Public Works • Yukon-Nevada Gold • Yukon Federation of Labour • Walmart • G-P Distributing • Meadia Solutions C 12 ULU News Y K Wednesday, March 7, 2012 • Whitehorse 2012 Arctic Winter Games M

Gwich’in Tribal . Council www.gdcgroup.ca www.gwichin.nt.ca

“The Arctic Winter Games are especially important to the Gwich’in. We recognize individual and team merit. World Champions like Kevin Koe are a good example of success and teamwork.” – Richard Nerysoo, President, Gwich’in Tribal Council

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