History
NTESA was founded by a group of volunteers who saw firsthand how many youth in Yellowknife struggled to access sports because of financial barriers, lack of equipment, or limited opportunities. What began as a small effort to help a few young athletes quickly grew into a larger movement to ensure that everyone, no matter their background, has the chance to play, grow, and be part of a team.
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In 2024, we secured funding to support youth in soccer, rugby, slo-pitch, and snowboarding, covering registration fees and providing essential gear. Seeing the positive impact of these efforts, we realized the need for a long-term solution: one that could expand beyond Yellowknife and support people of all ages across the territory. That’s why NTESA was created. We want to break down barriers, foster connections, and make sports accessible for all.
Our Impact
NTESA has helped cover sports fees and provided equipment for dozens of athletes who otherwise might not have been able to participate. Through our programs, we’ve created opportunities for youth to build confidence, form friendships, and develop skills that go beyond the game. With continued community support, we aim to expand our reach, introduce more sports, and ensure that no one is left on the sidelines.
How We Work
Our approach is built on partnerships, volunteerism, and advocacy. We collaborate with local leagues, recreation organizations, and community groups to identify needs and provide support where it’s needed most. We also rely on dedicated volunteers who help mentor, coach, and create welcoming environments for athletes of all skill levels. NTESA is committed to responsible governance, ensuring transparency and sustainability as we grow.
How to Get Involved
Sports have the power to bring people together, and you can be part of that movement! Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, there are many ways to support NTESA’s mission. Join us in making sports a space where everyone belongs!
Our Board.
President
Bianca Romagnoli
Bianca has always enjoyed recreational sports and once she moved to Yellowknife she found herself joining a bunch of different teams. However she quickly realized the high costs of playing sports in the NWT was a huge barrier for others. This is why she decided to found NTESA and she is extremely grateful for the support of her board and all the teammates and volunteers who make every single activity possible!
Director
Vincent Ret
Vincent moved to Yellowknife in 2018 and quickly became an active community member, contributing through photography, volunteerism, and youth social work. He is a dedicated weight-lifter, and has recently become involved in other sports activities like downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, soccer, and ultimate frisbee. He worked as a recreation coordinator for youth programs previously, and now works as the Communications Coordinator at the NWT Recreation and Parks Association.
Vice-President
Hamza Khalil
Hamza has dedicated all his adult years to serving the public. He has previously volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, was one of the first volunteers with the KidsHelpPhone Crisis Text Line, and he continues to serve his community by volunteering with NTESA.
Director
TJ Ebbeling
TJ has been involved in recreation planning since a teenager. Originally his focus was on running after school programs for youth in his community and organizing drop-in programs at the local rec center. TJ continues to stay involved with local sport programs as an adult and works in the public service field. He is committed to fair play and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to get involved with the sports and programs he fell in love with as a youth.
Secretary / Treasurer
Korry Garvey
Korry has always been active in team sports playing basketball, volleyball, rugby, baseball, soccer, and ultimate frisbee since a young age, and previously volunteered as a referee and coach for basketball and volleyball. She is also active in biking and swimming, and hopes to initiate the development of an innertube waterpolo league in Yellowknife. Korry works at the Yellowknife Community Foundation, which is a charitable organization that aligns donor interests with community needs, giving out student awards and grants in the NWT.
Director
Katie Welsh
Katie is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work, building on a career dedicated to supporting the well-being of individuals. With experience supporting children with disabilities and at-risk youth, Katie has focused on creating positive environments and opportunities for vulnerable populations.
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Having played sports throughout her life, Katie understands the importance of staying active and being part of a positive, inclusive environment that fosters both physical and mental health as well as a sense of belonging. She is driven to create similar opportunities for others across the Territories, empowering individuals to embrace healthy lifestyles and strong community connections!