In March, the School of Kinesiology had the honour of hosting Eric Porter and Emily King for a series of engaging Arctic Sports workshops and demonstrations. These events brought together KIN students, faculty, staff, and the broader UBC community to learn from and with Indigenous sport leaders whose work continues to build connections between movement, culture, and land.
Eric Porter, a Traditional Sports Instructor with the Yukon Aboriginal Sport Circle (YASC), led the sessions with deep knowledge and lived experience. A member of the Kaska First Nation from Watson Lake, Yukon, Eric teaches Arctic and Dene games across the territory, fostering pride and participation in Indigenous sport among youth and communities.
Emily King, an accomplished Arctic Sports athlete, shared her athletic journey with students across several classes. Having competed in the Arctic Winter Games, the Indigenous Summer Games, and the World Eskimo Indian Olympics—where she was named overall athlete—Emily inspired audiences with her powerful demonstration of traditional skills, including the record-breaking One-Foot High Kick.
Between March 13–17 2025, Eric and Emily visited multiple courses including KIN 160, 484, 368, 150, and 120, as well as an open forum with faculty, staff, and students, and a teacher training session with Faculty of Education students and faculty. From classroom conversations to interactive skill-sharing sessions in the gym, their visit sparked important conversations about Indigenous knowledge systems, movement practices, and the enduring significance of these games.
The impact of their visit was best captured by those who participated. Dr. Janice Forsyth, professor at the School of Kinesiology, reflected:
“Having Eric and Emily engage directly with our students in Dene and Inuit sports is what Kinesiology is all about—not just reading or watching, but learning firsthand from those who compete in Arctic Sports. Students explored the cultural significance of these games: their role in life on the land, why Elders wanted them shared through mainstream competition, and how they continue to advance Indigenous values today. It’s a powerful reminder of the innovation and vision of Inuit and Dene Peoples—and of Indigenous-led organizations like the Yukon Aboriginal Sport Circle—in preserving and evolving culture. And yes, the sports are much harder than they look!”
Students had the chance to try out events like the Alaskan High Kick and the Airplane, learning firsthand the balance, discipline, and storytelling behind each movement. Through laughter, effort, and shared learning, these moments became more than just athletic challenges—they were bridges between traditions and new understandings.
Reflecting on the experience, KIN student Jamie Coukell shared:
“The Arctic Sports Demonstration and Discussion led by Eric Porter and Emily King broadened my perspective on different approaches to sport and training principles. Through this event I was able to witness how the sharing of Indigenous teachings through sport can bring people together. It was a privilege to have Eric and Emily share their sport with us and the cultural teachings behind each game.”
Special thanks go to the Yukon Aboriginal Sport Circle (YASC) for their generous support and collaboration. Their ongoing work to promote Indigenous sports across the North is vital, and we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from their leaders.
We also extend our appreciation to all who helped make this visit possible, including the KIN EDID Committee; Eli Puterman, Robert Boushel, Moss Norman, Maria Gallo, Jamie Coukell and the KUS team, Leanne Petherick, Erica Bennett, and Janice Forsyth.
View photos from the events: OneDrive Gallery