NTSSA Welcomes a New Executive Director

NT School Sports Welcomes New Executive Director Stefan Burgener

 August 13, 2026

The Northwest Territories School Sport Association is pleased to welcome Stefan Burgener as its new Executive Director.

Originally from Australia, Stefan brings a passion for sport, extensive volunteer leadership experience, and a strong belief in the power of sport to positively shape young people’s lives. Born in rural Australia to an Australian mother and Swiss father, Stefan moved to Switzerland as a teenager, where sport quickly became a central part of his life. Growing up, he played soccer before discovering rugby and eventually Australian Rules Football, a sport that would become much more than a hobby.

In 2016, Stefan founded the Winterthur Lions Australian Football Club, helping introduce Australian Rules Football to Switzerland. His vision quickly grew into something much bigger. As co-founder and President of AFL Switzerland, he helped establish a national league that now includes six clubs, along with both men’s and women’s national teams. Along the way, he also served as a coach, team manager, and volunteer leader, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to growing sport and creating opportunities for others.

Stefan and his partner moved to Yellowknife in 2023, where his partner pursued a career in nursing. Professionally, Stefan’s background is in business administration, operations, and sales, skills that complement his extensive volunteer experience in sport leadership. For Stefan, joining NT School Sports was a natural next step. “I pursued the Executive Director role with NT School Sport out of a lifelong passion for sports administration and a drive to make sports more accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for all,” he said. “Sport is a powerful tool for youth development and community building, and I am thrilled to bring my energy and experience to this new chapter.”

Like many young people across the Northwest Territories, Stefan understands firsthand the impact sport can have on a person’s life. “Since my childhood, sport has played a big role in keeping me happy and healthy. Along with keeping me fit, sport has helped me build confidence and has always given me a great sense of belonging.”

As he begins his new role, Stefan is looking forward to working with schools, volunteers, teachers, coaches, officials, and communities across the Territory while continuing the strong foundation already established by NT School Sports. “I’m excited to experience our school sport championships, meet the incredible volunteers and young athletes who make our programs possible, and continue building strong relationships with schools and communities across the Northwest Territories.”

Looking ahead to his first year, Stefan’s focus is clear. “I look forward to continuing Andrew’s great work by keeping our championships fun, inclusive, and empowering for all students. My priority is to break down barriers to participation so every young person across the Northwest Territories has the opportunity to get involved and play.”

Stefan believes the value of school sport extends far beyond competition. “School sport builds character just as much as capability. It gives young people a safe environment to test their limits, develop resilience, and feel part of something bigger than themselves. When done well, sport breaks down barriers and helps build confidence that lasts well beyond graduation.”

When asked what advice he would give students across the Northwest Territories, his answer was simple. “Step outside your comfort zone and try something new. You don’t have to be the best player on the court or field. Sport is about discovering what you’re capable of, making new friends, and having fun. Taking that first step can unlock confidence you never knew you had.”
Outside of work, Stefan enjoys camping, canoeing, gardening, jiu-jitsu, soccer, working out, attending community events, and spending time with his partner and their two dogs.

One thing is already clear: Stefan has quickly developed a strong connection to the North. “I have fallen in love with Yellowknife and the Northwest Territories, and I am very excited to have the opportunity to contribute to its vibrant community.”

As NT School Sports looks ahead to another exciting school year, we are thrilled to welcome Stefan to the team and look forward to the passion, leadership, and enthusiasm he will bring to school sport across the Northwest Territories. Welcome to the team, Stefan!