“Community and camaraderie are the strongest”

Team Kalaallit Nunaat steps off the plane after the Arctic Winter Games 2026 with luggage that weighs more than when they left for Canada: no less than 80 medals. For General Secretary of the Greenland Sports Federation (GIF), Jonas Jensen, it is not only the medals that count – the human dimension also weighs heavily.

– It has been a great pleasure to follow and contribute to this year’s Games, which in every way was a fantastic experience for Team Kalaallit Nunaat, says Jonas Jensen, who is also quick to pass on his thanks to this year’s hosts from Yukon, Canada.

– The young host team has worked with innovation and digital solutions, which have really made a difference. The AWG app worked well, the accommodation was well-organized, the transport ran smoothly, and the facilities maintained a high standard throughout, says the returning Secretary-General.

This year's Games also stand as an example of how strong planning and innovative thinking can raise both the experience for the participants and the overall level at the Arctic Winter Games.

More than metal

Team Kalaallit Nunaat returns home with 80 medals – an impressive number, but behind each one lie stories of training, dedication and community in the local sports communities.

– The medals show that the long, tough pull works. It is in the associations, with the coaches and the many volunteers that the foundation is created. When talent gets support and a safe environment, it can grow, says Jonas Jensen.

For the GIF Secretary General, however, the Games are about much more than results.

– It is important to emphasize that the goal is not only to perform at the Arctic Winter Games. Sports are also about joy, community, well-being and creating opportunities for both the general public and the elite. If we continue to strengthen the local sports environments and support the next generation of athletes, it can lead to results at many types of competitions – nationally and internationally. But it is equally important that children and young people get the desire to be a part of sport, regardless of level, says Jonas Jensen warmly.

It is precisely this combination of talent, effort and community that makes the medals so much more than metal – they are visible evidence of the people who work daily to give Greenland's young people the opportunity to grow both as athletes and as people.

Pride stands strongest

The Arctic community and cultural exchange have once again been central elements this year, and Jonas can clearly feel the importance.

– When I look back on AWG 2026, the community and camaraderie are the strongest. New relationships and experiences were created that the participants will take with them for life. The Games give young people the opportunity to test their talent, compete internationally and grow as people, says a clearly proud Jonas Jensen.

Jonas Jensen's pride embraces the entire Team Kalaallit Nunaat and the effort the team has put in. But some moments still get a special light – like Petra Amossen's new world record in the two-foot high kick.

– Her record testifies to both impressive talent and the cultural strength that lies in our traditional Arctic sports. I will remember it for a long time – not only for the result, but for the pride and inspiration it gave to both participants and spectators, he says.

The record stands as a shining testament to what the Arctic Winter Games 2026 can do – a championship where talent, culture and community come together, and where young people gain courage, experience and memories that will follow them through life. For Jonas, it is precisely this combination of achievement, pride and togetherness that makes the Games truly special.