Emma Carey’s Full-Circle Journey with Sport North
When Emma Carey walked through the doors of Sport North this summer, she brought with her the energy of an elite athlete, the perspective of a northern leader, and the heart of someone deeply committed to helping others find their place in sport.
Raised in the North and shaped by years of dedication as a multi sport athlete, Emma has always understood that sport is more than competition, it’s a community. This summer, she’s come full circle, returning to Sport North not just as a former Team NT athlete, but as a summer student, Administrative and Sport Coordinator, and a powerful example of what it means to give back. “Growing up, sports were always part of my life,” Emma shares. “Now, as I study Kinesiology, I wanted to stay involved in the athletic world but also explore the behind the scenes work that helps athletes thrive.”
This passion led her back to Sport North, where her lived experience as a Team NT athlete gives her unique insight. Whether supporting KidSport initiatives or planning sport events, Emma always carries the athlete’s perspective with her. “I know what it feels like to be on the other side—the nerves, the excitement, the need for support,” she says. “I try to reflect on my own experiences to make a difference wherever I can.”
Breaking Barriers for Young Athletes
Emma’s work with KidSport NWT has been especially meaningful. Every conversation, grant, and outreach message is an opportunity to help another child step into the world of sport. “It’s been incredibly rewarding,” Emma explains. “It’s opened my eyes to how we can remove barriers and give more kids the chance to play. It’s not just about sport, it’s about belonging.”
From Team NT to National Competition
Emma’s list of sports reads like a full school gym schedule: gymnastics, soccer, volleyball, basketball, track and field, hockey. Through each of these, she developed skills, friendships, and a deep appreciation for the value of sport. In 2020, her dedication was recognized with the Sport North Youth Female Athlete of the Year Award, a moment that reminded her of the power of hard work and community support.
Now, Emma plays varsity hockey for the Holland Hurricanes Women’s Team in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. While PEI is far from home, her experience there has been life changing. “It’s pushed me outside my comfort zone. Our team is like a family, and that bond has helped me grow on and off the ice,” she says. “It’s taught me resilience, leadership, and the importance of showing up for each other.” Between 2-4 weekly ice sessions, team workouts, and yoga classes, Emma balances her schedule with studies and much needed coffee shop breaks with friends. She credits this balance between academics, sport, and relationships, with shaping her into a stronger and more rounded person.
A Northern Voice with National Impact
One of Emma’s proudest contributions this summer is bringing her northern perspective to every table she sits at. As someone who grew up in the North, she understands both the challenges and opportunities unique to our communities. “I want to contribute by being a voice for northern athletes,” she says. “We have so much potential up here. I want to help shape pathways so that more youth can see what’s possible beyond the rink or court.” Emma also holds her Hockey Level 2 coaching certification and is working toward Development 1, showing her continued investment in coaching and sport leadership.
Advice for the Next Generation
For young athletes wondering how to stay involved in sport after competition, Emma has one key piece of advice: “Don’t stop when the games end. There are so many ways to stay involved, coaching, mentoring, organizing, or just cheering others on. Follow your passion, and the opportunities will come.”
As she wraps up her summer with Sport North, Emma’s legacy will be felt in the initiatives she’s supported, the youth she’s helped, and the example she sets for what it means to come home and give back. Emma Carey reminds us all that sport is not just about medals or scoreboards, it’s about people, passion, and possibility. Whether on the ice in PEI or behind a desk at Sport North, she’s helping shape the future of sport in the North, one day at a time.
