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IGLULIK - Alex Arnatsiaq is motivating youth in two communities to develop a greater sense of self-confidence on an off the mat.

While in Cambridge Bay for an MTO program, Alex Arnatsiaq of Iglulik, seen here standing, taught a group of local youth about the basics of wrestling. - photo courtesy of Catherine Pak

A recreation department trainee in Iglulik, the 19-year old has been coaching a wrestling program for high school students in his own community. And while in Cambridge Bay last week for a program on recreational leadership, he put the course into practice, teaching a workshop for local kids on the basics of the sport.

“He was very motivating to the youth,” said Catherine Pak, Cambridge Bay’s recreation co-ordinator. “He was able to draw a group of youth in Cambridge Bay that aren’t always as easily attracted, so it was quite the experience for both the youth and the community.” Arnatsiaq began wrestling in 2004 and has been coaching for the last two years.

“There were not a lot of things to do when I was in high school,” he said. “I was joining the other sports when I heard about wrestling. I joined.” He was drawn to the speed and the joy of the sport, and wrestling soon captivated his attention.

“It taught me a lot about (my) body ... and health,” said Arnatsiaq.

Wrestling also taught him about relating to others and to himself.

“It builds confidence for me,” Arnatsiaq added. “(And) you always respect your opponent.”

Since he started coaching in Iglulik, a few of his students have competed at the territorial level and won gold and silver medals for their efforts.

Arnatsiaq is also a competitor and has travelled throughout North America to represent Nunavut, his country and his community. Wrestling has taken him to cities like Denver, Colorado, Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Edmonton, and as close to home as Coral Harbour.

“I have competed in many places,” he said. “It’s a fun thing to do -- travelling itself and the sport. I have learned a lot from the other provinces and states.

“Wrestling is one of the big sports in Nunavut. Team Nunavut wrestlers have travelled throughout North America.”