Team Yukon, consisting of more than 130 athletes, coaches and mission staff, returned home after participating in the North American Indigenous Games in Halifax. This multi-sport event brought together representatives from 756 Indigenous Nations to celebrate, share and reconnect through sports and culture in Kjipuktuk (Halifax), Dartmouth and Millbrook First Nation.
From July 15 to 23, Team Yukon proudly represented the territory and their home communities in 11 sports. A cultural contingent and Yukon First Nation Elders shared their stories with over 3,000 participants from across North America.
The Yukon earned 39 medals: 20 gold, 10 silver and 9 bronze. Medals were earned in swimming, rifle shooting, beach volleyball, canoe/kayak and 3D archery.
Congratulations to Team Yukon's young athletes for their remarkable performances at the North American Indigenous Games in Halifax. Your success has made the Yukon and your communities proud. While I am sorry to hear that the closing ceremony was canceled, I am relieved and glad to know that the Yukon contingent returned home safely. Thank you to the coaches and mission staff for your dedicated support not only during the Games, but every day. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the coaches and mission staff for their unwavering support, not just during the Games, but every single day.
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn
It was a great honour to be in Halifax with Team Yukon to cheer on the athletes as well as celebrate the Games with many First Nations across North America. Thank you to the 2023 Host Society for hosting NAIG and thank you to everyone in Halifax for the warm hospitality.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Education Jeanie McLean
We are very pleased with our team’s participation, and we are very grateful to the host for running such a well-organized and friendly event here in Mi'kma'ki. The youth had a great time competing in the nice and warm weather of the welcoming city of Halifax. These games celebrated Indigenous youth, Indigenous identity and sports achievements. It will be a long-lasting memory for our Indigenous youth, one they can be proud of and carry along on their journey to becoming who they are.
Chef de Mission Gael Marchand
The 2023 North American Indigenous Games took place on the unceded and traditional homeland of the Mi’kmaq People.
Team Yukon had representation from eight Yukon communities including Watson Lake, Dawson City, Mayo, Teslin, Carmacks, Haines Junction, Pelly Crossing and Whitehorse.
The 2027 North American Indigenous Games will be held in Calgary, Alberta.
Team Yukon has participated at the North American Indigenous Games since its inception in 1990.
The Yukon government, through the Sport and Recreation Branch, committed $585,000 to support the 2023 North American Indigenous Games.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
John Tonin
Communications, Community Services
867-334-5816
John.Tonin@yukon.ca