Halifax, NS – July 30, 2025
Team Nova Scotia is proud to announce that Elle Gould, a dedicated softball player from
Eskasoni First Nation, has been selected as the province’s flag bearer for the 2025 Canada
Summer Games in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.
When Elle first learned the news, she described her immediate reaction as pure excitement. “My
first call was to my dad – he was so proud and excited for me,” Elle shared. “Later that day, it hit
me that I would be at the very front of Team Nova Scotia. I felt so honoured and full of gratitude
to be given this role, especially as a Mi’kmaw athlete.”
For Elle, the honour carries a deep personal and cultural meaning. “This opportunity is about
more than just representing Nova Scotia,” she explained. “It’s also about representing Mi’kmaq
communities across the province. Being the first group to showcase our new shared Team Nova
Scotia logo makes this role even more meaningful. It’s a step toward reconciliation, and I hope
to show young Indigenous athletes that they belong here too.”
Elle’s connection to softball runs deep. Growing up, she spent countless hours at the field,
inspired by her father, brother, uncles, and cousins, all of whom played the sport. “Softball has
always been a family tradition,” she said. “My family has had such a big impact on my career —
constantly helping and pushing me to become better. Having their support, along with my
community, means everything to me.”
Both community and competition have shaped her journey. Elle has played ball in her
community of Eskasoni her whole life, travelling across Nova Scotia and parts of Canada. In
2023, she represented Team Mi’kmaw Nova Scotia at the North American Indigenous Games,
an experience she describes as “unforgettable.” In 2021, she began competing with mainland
club teams, which led her to two Eastern Canadian tournaments — and now to the national
stage at the Canada Games.
As she prepares to carry the flag and lead Team Nova Scotia, Elle is looking forward not only to
the competition but also to the connections. “I’m excited to play against the best athletes in
Canada and to create lasting memories and friendships with my teammates and athletes from
across the country,” she said.
Elle hopes her role as flag bearer will serve as an inspiration to others. “I want young athletes,
especially future Mi’kmaw athletes, to know that hard work, dedication, passion, and sacrifices
do pay off,” she said. “I’m so proud to be part of this moment for Team Nova Scotia, and proud
of the step toward reconciliation we are taking together.”
Team Nova Scotia congratulates Elle on this historic honour and looks forward to seeing her
lead the province with pride into the 2025 Canada Summer Games.
