Mr. Speaker, the 2016 Arctic Winter Games begin on March 7 in Nuuk, Greenland. This will be the biggest event of its kind in the history of Greenland. Sixteen sports will be held in Nuuk with a hockey competition held in Iqaluit. The games bring together young athletes from all over the circumpolar world in friendly competition, and it is an opportunity to share in the rich cultures of northern regions around the world. The games celebrate sport and social exchange in northern communities and are an incredible opportunity for those living and often remote areas of the world to build partnerships, embrace diversity, and help our future northern athletes develop their potential.
I am proud to have the opportunity to attend the Arctic Winter Games this year and cheer on Team NWT in person. In particular, I would like to recognize the many fine athletes from my riding of Kam Lake: Brian Johnston, Lauren Eggenberger, Stephen Messier, Shakita MacLennan-Jensen, Akash Yadev, Deanne Whenham, Lacey Munroe, Lonan Bulger, John Angel, Logan Debogorski, Leonard Karambera, Kiah Debogorski, Liam Laroque, Hayly Soares, Kandis Villebrun, Tamara Toole, Sylvain Rourke, Andre Balasanyan, John Roche, Emil Balasanyan, Destiny Hobbs-Stewart, Devon Fillion, Shara Lafferty, Braden Johnston, Brynn Martin, and Tatston McQueen. I'd also like to recognize coaches and mission staff from Kam Lake: Aaron Wells, Gina Michel, Scott McQueen, and Jan Vallillee.
I want to thank all of our NWT team athletes and coaches for their hard work leading up to the games and wish everyone the best of luck. Go NWT! Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
