Eekeeluak’s Journey

2022

Overcoming Adversity and Achieving Greatness with Cambridge Bay Wrestling Club

Introduction

In the remote community of Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, a young athlete named Eekeeluak has emerged as a shining example of determination and resilience. In this blog post, we delve into the impact that the Cambridge Bay Wrestling Club (CBWC) has had on Eekeeluak’s life and how he has overcome immense challenges to become a successful wrestler. From his initial reluctance to his triumph at the Canada Summer Games (CSG), Eekeeluak’s story is a testament to the transformative power of sports and mentorship.

Discovering Eekeeluak’s Potential

When Chris Crooks, a coach from southern Ontario, arrived in Cambridge Bay in 2015, he noticed Eekeeluak’s undeniable charisma and physical abilities. However, it took some persuasion to get Eekeeluak interested in wrestling, as he initially believed it wasn’t for him. It was only when he learned about an upcoming wrestling tournament in Iqaluit that he decided to give it a chance. To everyone’s surprise, Eekeeluak demonstrated exceptional athletic and mental abilities, effortlessly winning his weight class.

Navigating Turbulent Emotional and Mental Challenges

Despite his athletic prowess, Eekeeluak’s emotional and mental journey has been fraught with difficulties. He has faced the heartbreaking loss of friends and relatives to suicide, his mother permanently leaving the community for treatment, and a family burdened by alcoholism, drug abuse, and physical abuse. Coping with bouts of depression, anger, and insecurity, Eekeeluak found a support system in Chris Crooks and his wife, Paula Cziranka.

Finding Stability and a New Way of Thinking

Recognizing the need for stability and a healthier environment, Eekeeluak made the courageous decision to live with Paula and Chris, signing a volunteer agreement with Social Services. This move provided him with a new perspective on relationships, challenging his previous understanding of toxic and abusive dynamics. Eekeeluak had to confront the dysfunction and exploitation within his family, causing emotional turmoil. Through open conversations about residential school trauma and intergenerational trauma, Eekeeluak began to navigate his own healing journey alongside his family’s.

Commitment to Excellence

With limited training partners in Cambridge Bay, Eekeeluak faced unique challenges. Chris Crooks became not only his coach but also his primary training partner, pushing Eekeeluak’s physical fitness and providing the competition he needed to excel. Various innovative training techniques, such as deck-of-cards workouts and video analysis of matches, helped Eekeeluak refine his skills and improve his performance. The CBWC invested in specialized equipment and facilitated opportunities for training and competition outside of Nunavut, broadening Eekeeluak’s horizons and fostering his growth as an athlete.

Triumph at the Canada Summer Games

Months of dedicated training and unwavering support from his coaches and teammates led Eekeeluak to the Canada Summer Games. Before the semi-finals, he experienced a moment of sadness and depression due to the suicide of his brother. Through heartfelt conversations, Chris Crooks helped Eekeeluak shift his mindset and focus on his brother’s proud spirit. As a result, Eekeeluak delivered an outstanding performance, winning the gold medal and securing a well- deserved victory.

Continued Support and Future Aspirations

Eekeeluak’s success did not end at the Canada Summer Games. With enrollment in the Elite Athlete Program at Vimy Ridge Academy High School in Edmonton, Eekeeluak is further honing his skills and transitioning to life in a different environment. With the continued support of the CBWC, Paula, Chris, Owen Dawkins (coach of U of A), and the University of Alberta and Edmonton Wrestling Club, Eekeeluak is conquering the challenges of living away from his family and excelling in his sport. In the fall of 2023 Eekeeluak will start at the University of Alberta in their Native Studies program.

Conclusion

Eekeeluak’s journey with the Cambridge Bay Wrestling Club showcases the transformative power of wrestling and mentorship. From his initial reluctance to his triumphs on a national stage, Eekeeluak has defied the odds, displaying incredible strength and resilience. Through the unwavering support of his coaches, mentors, and the wrestling community, Eekeeluak has not only found success as an athlete but has also embarked on a profound personal and emotional growth. His story serves as an inspiration to youth facing adversity, demonstrating the potential for greatness when provided with the right opportunities and support.