NDN All-Stars

Native Americans invented hockey? “The Game of Hockey: A Mi’kmaw Story”

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Post date September 28, 2024
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Did Naive Americans invent Hockey?

I just watched this really cool documentary – “The Game of Hockey: A Mi’kmaw Story”, and I found it to be really fascinating and informative. It’s about the Mi’kmaw people from Eastern Canada and how they played a huge role in the history of hockey.. The film talks about how they used to play this game called oochamkunutk on frozen rivers and lakes, and it’s actually a lot like modern hockey. It’s really eye-opening because we usually hear that hockey came from Europe, but this shows how the Mi’kmaw people influenced it way before that. Fascinating, right?

One of the things I didn’t know about is how the Mi’kmaw used to hand-carve hockey sticks from trees like birch and hornbeam. These sticks were some of the best you could get back in the day, and a lot of early hockey players used them. When you watch this documentary, notice how closely the old hand crafted stick of the Mi’kmaw, made by had for ages, are to the current NHL stickers in shape and size. It’s amazing to think about how much of an impact the Mi’kmaw had on the game, both as players and craftsmen. The film does a great job of highlighting that.

There are some really touching interviews with Mi’kmaw elders who talk about what hockey means to their community. You can tell that it’s not just a sport to them—it’s tied to their identity and their history. The way they talk about playing the game and making the sticks is so full of pride. And it’s not just about the past either; they show younger Mi’kmaw players who are still playing hockey today, keeping the tradition alive.

I think what makes this documentary so powerful is that it forces you to rethink what you know about the history of hockey. We’ve always been told this one story about the sport’s origins, but this film shows that there’s so much more to it. It’s not just a European thing—Indigenous people, like the Mi’kmaw, played a major role in shaping the game. And the documentary does a great job of balancing that historical info with personal stories, so it never feels like a history lesson. It’s just a really well-made, engaging film that makes you appreciate hockey in a whole new way.

Honestly, if you’re into hockey or just curious about Indigenous/Native American history, this is a must-watch. You’ll come away with a much deeper appreciation for both the sport and the cultural traditions behind it. Plus, it’s just really cool to see how this story is still ongoing, with the younger generation carrying on the Mi’kmaw legacy in hockey today. You should definitely check it out!

Leave a comment and tell us what you think about this documentary. Do you think now that the Mi’kmaw were the original inventors of ice hockey? Tell us why or why not?

Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present. He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.

#NDNAllstars #Mi’kmaw #Hockey #NativeAmerican #origins #history #NHL

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NDN All-Star #16 – Jim Thorpe on the Baseball Diamond

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Post date September 19, 2024
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Today, let’s talk about the greatest athlete of the 20th century – NDN All-Star #16 Jim Thorpe (Sac & Fox), a legendary athlete who wasn’t just good at one sport but excelled in many! You might know him for his incredible achievements in football and the Olympics, and he even played on a barnstorming basketball team in the days before the NBA. But did you know he also made a mark in Major League Baseball?

First things first, let’s talk about who Jim Thorpe was. Born in 1887, he was a Native American from the Sac and Fox Nation in Oklahoma. Thorpe’s journey to fame began with his outstanding skills in track and field during his college years. But it wasn’t just running and jumping that he was good at; he had a natural talent for baseball too.

In 1913, Jim Thorpe joined the New York Giants Major League Baseball team. Thorpe played as an outfielder, showing off his incredible speed and agility. Even though baseball wasn’t his first love, he quickly adapted and became a solid player for the Giants. Fans were amazed at his powerful hits and lightning-fast sprints on the field.

One of Thorpe’s most memorable moments in baseball happened during the 1917 season. Playing for the Cincinnati Reds, Ol’ Jim hit home runs in three consecutive games. And this was back in the days before home runs were a common occurrence!

Talking about Ol’ Jim’s power at the plate, one story from his time playing baseball goes like this:

“Thorpe once hit home runs into three states during one game! First, he homered over the left field fence into Oklahoma. Then he homered over the right field fence into Arkansas. And finally, he hit an inside-the-park home run that never left Texas!”

While that tale MAY be a little exaggerated (we are not entirely sure…) it does show how revered and well thought of that Jim Thorpe, the baseball player, was during his time on the diamond.

Despite his baseball success, Thorpe’s heart truly belonged to other sports, and he eventually left the MLB to pursue his passion for football. But let’s not forget the impact he made on the diamond. Jim Thorpe’s baseball career might have been short, but it left an enduring legacy, showcasing his incredible versatility as an athlete.

NDN All-Star #16 Jim Thorpe wasn’t just a one-sport wonder – he was a multi-talented athlete who could conquer any field or sport, including the baseball diamond. His time in Major League Baseball might have been relatively brief (he played in 7 major league seasons), but the memories of his lightning-fast sprints, powerful hits, three-game home run streak, and other impressive feats on the baseball field continue to inspire young baseball players to this day. So, the next time you watch a baseball game, remember the extraordinary NDN All-Star #16 Jim Thorpe and the mark he left on America’s favorite pastime!

Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

#NDNAllstars #JimThorpe #Sac&Fox #baseball #NYGiants #MLB #CincinnatiReds #BostonBraves

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Boxing Cherokee NDN All-Stars Firsts

NDN All-Stars “FIRSTS!” – The CHAMP!

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Post date September 18, 2024
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NDN All-Stars "FIRSTS" Jack Dempsey

When you think of boxing greats, NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) definitely comes to mind. Born on June 24, 1895, in Colorado, Jack Dempsey’s path to becoming one of the most revered heavyweight champions of all time was quite a journey.

Dempsey’s rise in the boxing world was nothing short of spectacular, marked by thrilling fights and monumental victories. Known for his aggressive fighting style and knockout power, he earned the nickname “The Manassa Mauler.” In 1919, Dempsey reached the pinnacle of his career by defeating reigning champion Jess Willard in a match that lasted less than four rounds. This win solidified Dempsey’s status as the first Native American heavyweight Champion of the World and catapulted him into the spotlight of boxing fame.

But Dempsey’s impact extended beyond the ring. His fights were not just boxing matches; they were cultural events that drew huge crowds and set box office records. His rivalry with Gene Tunney, culminating in the famous “Long Count” rematch in 1927, remains one of the most talked-about moments in boxing history.

While Dempsey’s legacy as a pioneer for Native Americans in sports is significant, his influence is even greater. He inspired athletes of all backgrounds to be their best. No less than “Iron” Mike Tyson counted Dempsey as his boxing hero!

Dempsey’s story is a reminder that true champions are not just defined by their victories but also by the lasting impression they leave on the world.

Looking back on his incredible career, NDN All-Stars celebrates not only his athletic prowess and skills but also the lasting impact he had on the sport of boxing. The legacy of NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey inspires generations of athletes of all backgrounds to strive for greatness, reminding us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible, no matter how humble your beginnings.

Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

#ndnallstars #jackdempsey #boxing #heavyweightchampion #cherokee #FIRSTS

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Video Archeology – NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong in “Keep Punching”

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Post date September 9, 2024
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Today’s installment of Video Archeology is a bit different. It’s not a biography, or a game or a retrospective. Today, I have a gem for you – a movie starring one of our NDN All-Stars!

If you’re looking for an old-school boxing movie that’s a bit off the beaten path, “Keep Punching” (1939) is one you should check out. It stars NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong (Iroquois), a real boxing legend from the era, and follows the story of a young boxer, Dave, who fights his way from humble beginnings to the top. The plot may seem familiar—it’s a classic underdog story—but what makes it special is the time period and Armstrong’s presence.

The film gives us a glimpse into what it was like for minority athletes during the 1930s. Armstrong’s own history as a trailblazing fighter, combined with his portrayal of Dave, gives the movie a sense of authenticity that feels rare for the time. The boxing scenes, although not as polished as what you’d see today, have a raw energy to them because of Armstrong’s real-life skills in the ring.

The characters around Dave—his trainer and fellow fighters—create a solid sense of community and camaraderie, which adds to the emotional weight of the story. You really feel like you’re rooting for Dave, not just because he’s good in the ring but because he has people who believe in him.

Sure, the dialogue might come off as a little corny to a modern audience, and the production quality is far from today’s standards, but that’s part of what makes “Keep Punching” an interesting watch. It’s a window into a different time, with a simplicity that makes you appreciate the journey these characters go through. And the fact that it stars a real-life sports hero gives it an edge that many other films don’t have.

Overall, I’d recommend “Keep Punching” if you’re a fan of boxing films or of NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong. It’s a little rough around the edges, but it’s got heart, and Armstrong’s presence makes it more than just another boxing movie. Plus, it’s a reminder of how hard some people had to fight—not just in the ring, but in life.

Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History #HenryArmstrong #Iroquois #boxing

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Video Archeology – NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey – This Is Your Life

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Post date September 2, 2024
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Why You Should Watch the “This Is Your Life” Episode Featuring Jack Dempsey

Just the other day I came across an old black-and-white episode of “This Is Your Life” featuring the legendary NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) . I love classic TV shows, especially ones that give you a peek into the lives of people who made history. This episode, which aired on November 1, 1950, has stuck with me ever since, and I think you should check it out too. Here’s why.

First off, there’s something really special about “This Is Your Life.” The show had a way of telling someone’s life story that was both emotional and surprising. They would bring in long-lost friends, family members, and other important people from the guest’s past, creating a powerful experience for both the person featured and the audience. It’s the kind of TV that really makes you feel something, and Jack Dempsey’s episode is a great example of this.

For those who might not know, NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey was one of the greatest boxers ever. He was the World Heavyweight Champion from 1919 to 1926, during what’s often called the “Golden Age of Boxing.” Nicknamed the “Manassa Mauler,” Dempsey was known for his fierce fighting style and incredible power. But what really made him famous was how he helped turn boxing into a major sport, drawing huge crowds and earning big money for his fights. (His bout with Georges Carpentier – who makes an appearance – was the first Million Dollar Gate in boxing history!)

Something that struck me when I watched this episode is just how humble and gracious Dempsey was. Despite all his fame and success, he comes across as a genuinely kind and down-to-earth guy. The show’s host, Ralph Edwards, does a great job of getting Dempsey to open up about his life, showing us the real person behind the famous boxer.

One of the best parts of the episode is when Dempsey is reunited with old friends and rivals from his boxing days. They are called up one by one to enter the set – a boxing ring set up just for the show. These moments are so real and honest—you just don’t see stuff like this on TV anymore. When one of his early trainers speaks before he makes his appearance, you can see the respect and recognition in Dempsey’s eyes. It’s a powerful moment, and a reminder that even the toughest champions are shaped by the people around them, and that no one gets to the top on their own.

Another great moment is when Dempsey’s family members join the show, including his wife and siblings. (He even picks up and holds his two granddaughters during the show…) Their stories give us a glimpse into Dempsey’s life, his struggles, and how he rose to fame. These personal details show that Dempsey wasn’t just a great fighter—he was also a loving husband, brother, and son. The sincerity and love in these interactions make it clear that Dempsey’s strength wasn’t just physical but also emotional and moral.

But what makes this episode truly special is that – as you watch, you feel like you’re right there with Dempsey, experiencing the ups and downs of his interactions with many people from his past. The show’s format, with surprise guests and heartfelt stories, creates a sense of closeness that’s rare on TV. By the end of the episode, you feel like you really know Jack Dempsey—not just as a boxer, but as a person.

I also have to mention how well the episode holds up, considering it was filmed in 1950. While some of the dialogue is a bit “cheesy” in an old-timey way, the black-and-white footage gives it a classic feel, and the reactions of the live audience add to the authenticity.

So, why should you watch this episode of “This Is Your Life”? Because it’s more than just a tribute to a sports legend. It’s a celebration of a life lived with passion, determination, and humility. It’s a reminder that behind every public figure is a private person with their own story, shaped by the people they’ve met and the challenges they’ve faced. In a world filled with shallow content, this show stands out as something meaningful and moving.

In the end, “This Is Your Life” does exactly what it aims to do: it brings to life an amazing person in a way that still resonates today. Watching NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey’s episode is like taking a trip back in time, and trust me, it’s a trip worth taking.

Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History #JackDempsey #Cherokee #boxing

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NDN All-Star Info Video Archeology

Introducing “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology” – A Journey Through Native American Athletic History

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Post date August 25, 2024
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Welcome to the inaugural post of my new blog series, “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology.” As a passionate advocate for celebrating Native American excellence in sports, I am really excited to dive into this project, where I’ll be uncovering and showcasing some of the most extraordinary moments captured on video featuring the incredible athletes from my NDN All-Stars roster at ndnallstars.com.

What to Expect from “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology”

Through hours of searching, I will find videos scattered across the internet that highlight the amazing talent, dedication, and passion of Native American athletes who have left their mark in various sports. Whether it’s a breathtaking game-winning shot, a powerful run that led to a victory, a well-crafted documentary, or an inspiring interview, these videos offer a window into the rich athletic heritage of Native American sports personalities.

In each blog post, I’ll share a handpicked video that features one of my NDN All-Stars. Along with the video, I’ll provide a brief description, offering context and background on the video. This will be followed by my personal reflections, where I’ll dive into why this particular clip stands out and what it represents in the broader narrative of Native American achievements in sports.

Why This Series Matters

“NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology” is more than just a collection of cool sports clips—it’s about preserving and amplifying the stories of Native American athletes who have often been overlooked in mainstream sports media. These athletes are trailblazers, role models, and inspirations, and their stories deserve to be told and retold.

For too long, the contributions of Native American athletes have been marginalized or forgotten. This series aims to change that by bringing these stories back to the forefront, making them accessible to everyone, especially the younger generation who may not be aware of the rich legacy of Native excellence in sports.

Join the Journey

Each video shared in this series will come with a direct link, allowing you to experience these moments firsthand. I invite you not just to watch, but to engage—share your thoughts, comments, and reactions. Let’s start a conversation about the impact these athletes have had and continue to have on the sports world.

By connecting with these videos, you’ll be part of a growing community that celebrates and honors the contributions of Native American athletes. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a history buff, or someone who enjoys a good inspirational story, “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology” has something for you.

Got Your Popcorn?

I’m excited to start this journey with you. Through “NDN All-Stars: Video Archeology,” we’ll uncover the hidden gems of Native American sports history together, one video at a time. This is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the legends who have paved the way, and to inspire future generations of Native athletes to continue the legacy of excellence.

So, stay tuned, and get ready to dive into a world of incredible sports moments. The first video in the series is coming soon, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Let’s celebrate NDN All-Stars—past, present, and future—together.

Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History

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Tags Bill Black, history, Native American, NDN All-Stars, sports, Video Archeology

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NDN All-Star #103 Frank Pierce: A Native American Olympic Pioneer

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Post date August 9, 2024
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Looking back at Olympic history, many athletes have left their mark with their unique stories and achievements. One of these athletes who has faded into the mists of time is NDN All-Star #103 Frank Pierce (Seneca), the first Native American to compete in the Olympic Games.

A Talented Runner

Frank Pierce was born in 1883. Growing up in western New York, he showed that he was a great runner from a young age. Running wasn’t just a sport for Pierce; it was a way of life. His diminutive size (5-6 and 125 lbs.) made him an ideal distance runner. He trained hard, often running barefoot on tough surfaces, which helped him become strong and resilient.

Early Achievements

Frank Pierce first came to national attention in 1901 when he recorded a time of 15:57.4 for 3 miles. He also finished second that year in the AAU 5-mile championship, followed by a 3rd-place finish in the same event in 1902. These early achievements showed his potential and dedication as a distance runner.

The Olympic Marathon

At the St. Louis Olympic Games in 1904, Frank Pierce represented the Pastime AC of New York City, and entered the marathon. The race was very tough, with a difficult course and harsh conditions. It was filled with a lot of craziness. Here is an article telling that story: https://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/a37039437/1904-olympic-marathon/ )

Unfortunately, Pierce did not finish the race, and the St. Louis newspapers did not mention him in any of their summaries. Despite this, just being in the Olympics was a huge achievement for Pierce and a significant breakthrough for Native American athletes.

Remembering Frank Pierce

Today, we remember NDN All-Star #103 Frank Pierce not just as an Olympic competitor but as someone who brought attention to the athletic talents of Native Americans on the world stage. I hope that sharing his story will inspire young athletes everywhere.

Mystery Man

Not much is known about Frank Pierce after his appearance in the Olympics. (At least I cannot find much information on him after that time.) Did he continue to run? Did he help coach young athletes? If you have information about his later life, please leave a comment below to help us create a fuller picture of an Indian athlete that certainly deserves more notoriety and recognition.

Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

#NDNAllstars #Olympics #track&field #FrankPierce #marathon #running #Seneca

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Tags Frank Pierce, Marathon, NDN All-Stars, Olympics, running, Seneca, track and field

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NDN All-Stars In The Olympics

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Post date July 27, 2024
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As the world comes together for the 2024 Olympics opening ceremonies, I would like to remind you of some of the amazing Native American athletes who have participated in past Olympic Games. These athletes showed incredible skill and talent and are great examples to Native athletes everywhere.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate their journeys and be inspired by their amazing accomplishments. These athletes remind us that with dreams and determination, anything is possible.

Here are some of the great NDN All-Stars who have participated in the Summer Olympics:

Basketball

Jesse “Cab” Renick (Chickasaw/Choctaw) – Won gold with the U.S. basketball team at the 1948 London Olympics.

Kyrie Irving (Standing Rock Sioux) – Competed in the 2016 Olympics, winning a gold medal with the U.S. basketball team..

Canoe/Kayak

Alwyn Morris (Mohawk) – Competed in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, winning gold in the K-2 1000m and bronze in the K-2 500m; also competed in the 1988 Seoul Olympics..

Golf

Rickie Fowler (Navajo) – Competed in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Hockey

Clarence “Taffy” Abel (Ojibwe) – Won Silver in the 1924 Winter Olympics. Was the U.S. Flag bearer.

Judo

Ben Nighthorse Campbell (Northern Cheyenne) – Competed in judo at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and served as the captain of the U.S. judo team.

Track and Field

Frank Pierce (Seneca) – Competed in the marathon at the 1904 St. Louis Olympics.

Tom Longboat (Onondaga) – Competed in the marathon at the 1908 London Olympics.

Jim Thorpe (Sac & Fox) – Won gold medals in the pentathlon and decathlon at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics.

Andrew Sockalexis (Penobscot) – Competed in the marathon at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics.

Louis Tewanima (Hopi) – Won a silver medal in the 10,000 meters at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics.

Alex Decoteau (Cree) – Competed in the 5,000 meters at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics.

Benjamin “Joe” Keeper (Cree) – Competed in the 10,000 meters at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics, finishing fourth.

Ellison “Tarzan” Brown (Narragansett) – Competed in the marathon at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

Wilson “Buster” Charles” (Oneida) – Competed in the decathlon in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, finishing 4th.

Billy Mills (Oglala Lakota) – Won gold in the 10,000 meters at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.

Sharon Day-Monroe (Mohawk) – Competed in track and field events at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

Lolo Jones (Choctaw) – Competed in hurdles at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics..

Volleyball

Jordan Larson (Ho-Chunk) – Accomplished volleyball player with multiple Olympic medals in 2012, 2016, and 2020.

Wrestling

Dan Henderson (Walla Walla) – Competed in Greco-Roman wrestling at the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics.

Jacob Deitchler (Ojibwe) – Competed in the 2008 Beijing Olympics in Greco-Roman wrestling.

I am sure that there are more, and I am digging around to see who else I can add to this impressive list. If you know of someone I have omitted, please leave me a comment below so I can add them!

Now, let’s cheer on the current participants as we enjoy the spirit of unity and excellence that the Olympic Games bring.

#NDNAllstars #Olympics #track&field #wrestling #judo #running #pentathlon #decathlon

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BOOK REVIEW – “Chief Bender’s Burden”

Post author By admin
Post date June 22, 2024
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“Chief Bender’s Burden: The Silent Struggle of a Baseball Star” by Tom Swift

When I started reading “Chief Bender’s Burden: The Silent Struggle of a Baseball Star” by Tom Swift, I was immediately drawn into the story of the life of NDN All-Star #5 Charles Albert “Chief” Bender (Ojibwe), a famous baseball pitcher from the early 1900s. The book not only talks about Bender’s amazing baseball career but also about the tough times he faced because of his race and background.

Charles Bender, called “Chief,” (as most Native American ball players at the time were) was a star pitcher for the Philadelphia Athletics. The book talks a lot about his pitching skills, his best games, and how he helped his team win. (A little known fact – Chief Bender was the inventor of the Slider – a pitch that is a mainstay in baseball to this day.) But what makes this book special is how it talks about Bender’s life away from baseball. For instance, he was an excellent shot and won many shooting tournaments.

One thing I really liked about the book is how well Tom Swift researched and told Bender’s story. He describes what it was like to be at the baseball games, how the teams worked, and what life was like back then. It made me feel like I was actually there, watching Bender pitch.

As Bender was a Native American, he faced a lot of racism and discrimination. The book shows how hard it was for him to deal with people judging him because of his background instead of his talent. His strength and determination to keep going, even when things were tough, are really inspiring. Bender’s story shows that he was not just a great player but also a strong and brave person.

The book covers Bender’s life from his early days in Minnesota, to his time at Carlisle Industrial School, to his major league career, and his life in baseball after his playing days were over. His Hall of Fame career is well detailed, and his reliability as a clutch pitcher is shown again and again. One great quote that stuck with me about Bender came from none other than Hall of Fame manager Connie Mack, who said: “If everything depended on one game, I just used Albert – the greatest money pitcher of all time.” Swift also describes Bender’s baseball knowledge and intellect when he describes Bender’s time as a coach.

Swift writes in a way that is easy to understand and interesting to read. The book is good for anyone who likes baseball or is interested in American history and social issues. It moves at a good pace, and you can tell that Swift really cares about Bender’s story.

“Chief Bender’s Burden” is a powerful and thought-provoking book. It shines a light on an important but often overlooked figure in baseball history. Tom Swift has written a great tribute to NDN All-Star #5 Charles Bender, and I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an inspiring and educational read.

You can get your own copy of this book here.

#NDNAllstars #ChiefBender #Ojibwe #baseball #bookreview #TomSwift

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NDN All-Star “FIRSTS” – The First Native American Pro Football Player

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Post date June 19, 2024
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In an earlier “FIRSTS” I talked about the importance of NDN All-Star #4 Louis Sockalexis (Penobscot) and his place in history as the first Native American baseball player.

What about football? There have been a lot of great professional football players with Native American heritage. Players like the immortal Jim Thorpe, Hall of Famer Joe Guyon, Sonny Sixkiller, and more. But – who was the FIRST?

The answer is NDN All-Star #198 George Shelafo (Chippewa). Shelafo holds the unique place in the history of American football as the first Native American to get paid to play the game.

Shelafo started his football career at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, famous for its pioneering football program under legendary coach Pop Warner. The Carlisle football team was known for its innovative strategies and for producing some of the most outstanding players of the time. He played at Carlisle from 1894-1896.

Shelafo took a big step in his football career in 1897 by signing with the Latrobe Athletic Association. Latrobe was the first football team to play an entire season with only professional players, a notable moment in the early days of professional football. David J. Berry, the manager of the Latrobe team, heavily recruited him – even though Shelafo already had plans to attend the University of Chicago that fall.

This was a big decision for Shelafo. In the 1890s, people had mixed feelings about professional football. The sport was becoming popular, especially in working-class areas and was a big deal for local communities, bringing pride and a sense of identity. However, not everyone was happy about it. Some people thought that paying players ruined the “purity of the game,” which was supposed to be about building character and playing fair.

Newspapers wrote a lot about football, but they often focused on the roughness and injuries – so much so that there was a movement to ban football altogether. Taken in that light, Shelafo’s decision to leave college and throw in with a professional team was not the easy decision that it is for players today.

The 1897 season was memorable for Shelafo and the now all professional Latrobe Athletic Association football team. They started the season strong with a 7-0-1 record including victories over the Pittsburgh Emeralds and the Western University of Pennsylvania. Shelafo’s play on the field was a big part of these wins, highlighting his skills and athleticism. Playing in these games, Shelafo and his teammates helped to establish the credibility and competitiveness of professional football teams during that era.

As the first Native American to play football professionally, Shelafo helped pave the way for future generations of Native American athletes. His path from college football at Carlisle to playing professionally for Latrobe is evidence of the talent and determination of Native American players who contributed to the sport of football’s early development.

Shelafo’s pioneering role – while mostly overlooked at the time, draws attention to the influence of Native American athletes in shaping the game of American football. His story is a strong reminder of the rich history of early football and the critical role played by Native American pioneers like NDN All-Star #198 George Shelafo in the development of pro football.

#ndnallstars #georgeshelafo #Chippewa #Carlilsle #Latrobe #FIRSTS

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