chef's corner final edition

The 2025 Canada Games officially came to a close last night with a spectacular Closing Ceremony that perfectly celebrated the incredible journey we’ve all shared over the past two weeks. It was an evening filled with pride and gratitude as we honoured the athletes, coaches, managers, participant assistants, and mission staff whose passion and dedication made these Games unforgettable. The entertainment was outstanding, capped off by an electrifying performance from Newfoundland and Labrador’s own Alan Doyle that had the entire crowd moving. A special congratulations to Gavin Baggs, who proudly carried the flag for Team NL—a fitting honour for an athlete who has inspired us all.

Earlier in the evening, we were thrilled to see Molly Pomeroy of Athletics receive the Pat Lechelt True Sport Award, which recognizes a participant who best embodies the True Sport principles of excellence, fairness, respect, fun, health, inclusion, and giving back. We couldn’t be prouder of Molly for this incredible achievement.

Another unforgettable moment was when Team Newfoundland and Labrador was announced as the recipient of the prestigious Jack Pelech Award, presented to the provincial or territorial team that best exemplifies competitive spirit, good sportsmanship, fair play, cooperation, and friendship. This recognition is a true testament to the character, heart, and unity of our entire team.

Finally, thank you to the Canada Games Council, the Host Society, our phenomenal Mission Staff, and the thousands of dedicated volunteers who poured their hearts into making these Games possible. Because of you, the 2025 Canada Games truly were the Best. Games. Ever. I will forever cherish the memories and the privilege of being part of this incredible experience.

WEEK 2 ROUNDUP

Week two of the 2025 Canada Games was filled with standout moments for Team NL. From podium finishes to personal best performances, our athletes continued to shine on home soil while proudly representing Newfoundland and Labrador.

Check out some of our favourite highlights from the second week of competition below!

Gavin's golden moment

It was rain, drizzle and fog in the air, but golden on the track for Gavin Baggs in the Male 1500m Wheelchair race. Despite the inclement weather, Gavin had an exceptional race, with his home province including all of Team NL cheering him on. Congrats to Gavin on his second medal of these Games after his impressive silver-medal performance earlier in Week One, where he raced to the podium in the 400m Freestyle Para Swimming event on opening day. Team NL now has 4 medals and its' first gold medal!

NL MAKES 'HERSTORY' IN THE FIRST WOMEN'S BASEBALL GAME OF THE CANADA GAMES

History was made at St Pats Ball Park in St. John’s tonight as the first ever female baseball game at the Canada Games was played! Team NL battled Team BC.

An enthusiastic full house of spectators welcomed all the teams as they paraded onto the field for the ceremonial first pitch thrown by the trailblazing pitcher Jaida Lee, who played for the men’s Team NL at the Niagara Falls games. She is now a member of Team Canada!

Team NL got down in the first inning when an error led to a Team BC three run home run in the first inning. Team NL settled down after that and held Team BC down for several innings until Team BC scored 10 in the later innings to win with a final score of 13 to 0.

Team NL had an outstanding performance by Callie Ash. The youngest player on the team at thirteen years old had a hit and stolen base in the third inning!

East coast takes west coast in 5 sets

Team NL men’s volleyball pulled off a huge upset this morning, taking down powerhouse British Columbia in a nail-biting five-set match.

After dropping the opening set 25-12, it looked like a tough road ahead. But the boys showed grit and determination, storming back to take the next two sets 25-21 and 25-23. BC fought back to even things up with a 25-16 win in the fourth, setting the stage for a dramatic fifth set.

With nerves high and the crowd on edge, Team NL held strong. Libero Jackson Rideout came up clutch, refusing to let a ball hit the floor and helping seal the 18-16 victory in the fifth and final set.

The win secures Team NL a spot in the quarterfinals, where they’ll face Team Alberta tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. Let’s go Team NL!

12 Year old juan diego palma shines in his 3m dive

Today was a special moment for 12-year-old Juan Diego, who competed in his one and only event—the men’s 3m artistic dive—at the 2025 Canada Summer Games. After a focused morning practice and an afternoon interview with CBC News, he stepped onto the board in front of a supportive crowd of family, friends, and Team NL fans.

With each dive, Juan Diego showed poise and talent, earning loud cheers from the hometown audience. His competitions may be done for these Games, but his future is bright. A proud moment of sportsmanship also came when his father and Team NL coach, Jose, stepped in to coach a Nova Scotia diver whose coach was unwell.

Way to go, Juan Diego and Jose!

Incredible showing for team nl athletics at the track

It was a medal winning day again at the track for Gavin Baggs, with a silver in the male 1500m wheelchair race. This is Gavin’s third medal of this Canada Games!

Despite the cool temps, Team NL turned up the heat on the track in all events. Samantha Walsh finished 3rd in the 100m Special Olympics B Final. Molly Pomroy crossed the line in third place in the female 400m B final. Sawyer LeBlanc completed the male 1500m in 7th place.

Both male and female 4x100m relay competed later in the evening with great races. Female crossed in 6th place, setting a new provincial record, which they set earlier this week.

Shoutout to Seamus Reardon for an exceptional showing in the male 100m Ambulatory.

Everyone who completed today brought their best efforts and represented the home province with pride. Some athletes set new personal bests along the way. Athletics finishes up tomorrow with the last day of competition.

Final Splash at the Canada Games

Team NL’s Artistic Swimming squad wrapped up their Canada Games journey in style during the final team event. The girls delivered a strong performance, hitting all elements with precision and artistry.

Abby, Abigail P., Abigail T., Amelia, Emma, Lauren, and Mia showcased their hard work and teamwork under the guidance of coaches Taylor and Shannon.

The stands erupted in cheers, celebrating not only the routine but also the unforgettable experience these athletes created together.

Team NL swimmers truly made waves at the Games!