Hold onto your seats because Tribal Gathering '25 Week One set the bar sky-high for competitive play, Indigenous pride, and community spirit! This electrifying event brought together some fiercest young athletes, dedicated coaches, and passionate supporters to honor Indigenous heritage while showcasing jaw-dropping talent on the court. If you weren't there to feel the energy, let me paint the picture—this was a week of heart-pounding action, triumphant victories, and a decisive nod to resilience and unity.
NU BREED Dominates the Court!
Let's give a thunderous shout-out to NU BREED 10U and their fearless leader, Coach Sai, who stormed through the competition like a force of nature. Undefeated. Unstoppable. First place! These young warriors didn't just play—they owned the court, proving that skill, grit, and teamwork can carry you to the top. Congratulations to every player who left it all out there—your victory is a testament to the strength of the next generation!
Not to be outdone, Coach Jazmin and the NU BREED 12S team delivered a masterclass in dominance at the third-annual Tribal Gathering '25. With a perfect winning record, they claimed their well-deserved first-place trophy, leaving opponents in awe and fans roaring with pride. These athletes didn't just compete—they embodied the spirit of excellence and set a blazing standard for what's possible when talent meets determination. Hats off to Coach Jazmin for guiding this powerhouse squad to glory!
More Than a Game: Honoring Heritage and Resilience
Tribal Gathering '25 wasn't just about the scoreboard—it was a vibrant celebration of Indigenous culture and identity. A huge thank-you goes to Stephanie Nieto, whose heartfelt land proclamation on behalf of the Tule River Yokuts and other original land inhabitants reminded us of the deep roots beneath our feet. Her words set the tone, grounding the event in respect and reverence for those who came before us.
And then there was the breathtaking moment of the red handprint—a symbol of the struggle and resilience of Indigenous women. This powerful emblem, often used in Indigenous communities to symbolize the strength and resilience of women, was a poignant addition to the event. Massive appreciation to Shane and Melissa Christie for supplying the red paint that marked athletes with this powerful emblem. Equal gratitude to Alyssa and Aeva Christie, who facilitated this moving activity, blending tradition with education and ensuring every participant felt the weight and beauty of the gesture. It wasn't just a mark on the skin—it was a mark on the soul of this event.
A Community Effort of Epic Proportions
None of this magic could've happened without the unsung heroes behind the scenes. Thank you to every scorekeeper and linesperson who kept the games running smoothly! Your dedication ensured that Tribal Gathering '25 wasn't just an event but an experience of top-tier caliber. But let's not forget the most important part- the audience. Your cheers, support, and presence were the driving force behind this event. Together, we built something extraordinary: a space where competition met culture, sweat met spirit, and every cheer echoed with pride.
John Alvarado
Stephany Perez
Ed Gonzalez
Art Soto
Allen Asuncion
Eugene Empleo
Sai Keolvilaysane
Tracy Keovilaysane
Dona Keovilysane
Kaleen Lara
Keovilaysane kids
Tournament Director Janá Lara was outstanding in managing the tournament with distinction.
If you can volunteer for this next weekend, we will host teams from Nor Cal, So Cal, Cen Cal, and Arizona. We have two locations to manage: Kennedy Elementary and McDermont X. please contact Janá immediately so we can generate a schedule.
Looking Ahead to Weekend Two!
Week One was a wildfire of excitement, but don't put away your game face just yet—Weekend Two of NU BREED TRIBAL GATHERING '25 is right around the corner! With the high bar set, we can't wait to see what's in store. More heart-stopping plays? More celebrations of Indigenous excellence? You bet! Get ready for another round of unforgettable moments as our athletes continue to shine and our community continues to rise. We will host even more teams from Nor Cal, So Cal, Cen Cal, and Arizona this weekend, promising a diverse and competitive event. So, mark your calendars and get ready to be part of the action!
Tribal Gathering '25 Week One wasn't just a tournament but a movement. A victory lap for Indigenous athletes. A tribute to resilience. And a promise that the best is yet to come. See you on the court!
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