North American Indigenous Games
From July 15 to 23, the 2023 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) brought together 756 Indigenous Nations to celebrate, share, and reconnect through sport and culture in Kjipuktuk (Halifax), Dartmouth and Millbrook First Nation. Cape Breton University was proud to sponsor the games and support the students and incredible Alumni involved in this historic event.
Three of CBU’s Alumni were involved in coaching and organizing the games. Shaniya Vance, Tex Marshall and Gedd Francis shared with us some of their connection to CBU.
Shaniya Vance, Sydney, NS
As coach for the Team Mi’kmaw Nova Scotia women’s U19 Volleyball team, Shaniya Vance is dedicated to supporting her team and ensuring their experience was incredible.
“I graduated from CBU in May 2020. I completed the Bachelor of Arts: Community Studies program, with a double major in Psychology and Sport & Physical Leadership. I am currently doing the Masters of Education at CBU.
As someone who has attend NAIG as a player in 2014, I was most excited to return as a coach and share this experience with my athletes and fellow coaches. Having the opportunity to play in front of our friends and family in Kjipuktuk is truly special. The sporting component of NAIG is of course something I was excited for, but engaging in our culture throughout various activities and demonstrations throughout the week made it truly special.
I think my players were excited for the entire experience; most had never attended a large sporting event, let alone competed in one. Having the opportunity to learn more about their culture, meet new friends and competing against the other top Indigenous players from around North America made this incredibly special.”
Gedd Francis, Eskasoni, NS
As coach for the Team Mi’kmaw Nova Scotia Women’s U16 Beach Volleyball and U19 Male Beach Volleyball teams, Gedd is thrilled to be a part of history in Mikma’ki.
“I graduated from CBU in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Arts. I wasn’t able to play in the last games, but always dreamed about it. As a coach, I was able to live my dream through my players and help them discover the passion for their sport.
My team was excited to play at this level and to meet people from a diverse group of other indigenous communities. Despite some setbacks, we ended up winning a bronze medal. This was such a special moment for my team.”
George ‘Tex’ Marshall, Eskasoni, NS
Tex is the Manager, Mi’kmaw Sport at Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey and President of NAIG 2023. He’s also Co-Chair, NS Tripartite Sport & Rec.
As President of NAIG 2023, Tex has been involved in the games for more than 25 years.
“I attended UCCB first in 1987, but then went down a few different paths. I came back in 2012 and graduated from Cape Breton University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts Community Studies. My greatest hope for the games was that all attendees enjoyed their experience in Kjipuktuk and left as happy as they came. I think we accomplished that and then some.
The Maritimes are known for great hospitality and that comes from the Indigenous peoples who have set that standard long ago. We made every stride to ensure all guests felt welcome and the culture and sport were at the forefront.
One of the most valuable parts of this event was for the 5,000+ athletes and their families to learn more about Mi’kmaw and the special Indigenous ways.
These games built self-esteem and offered athletes a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete at a high level. I am so proud of what we accomplished here in Mi’kma’ki.”