At NDN All-Stars, we’ve always been about telling the stories of great Native athletes—past and present. That’s why I’m excited to share something new that’s been in the works: an album of original songs I’ve written to celebrate some of the incredible athletes on our All-Stars roster. The title of the album is still being developed, so stay tuned…
This project is a way to honor their achievements in a different medium. Just as we tell their stories through blog posts, podcasts, and merchandise, these songs bring their journeys to life with music and rhythm.
One of the first tracks is called “Ross Is Fast!”—a high-energy tribute to World Cup speed ski racer Ross Anderson (Cheyenne/Arapaho/Mescalero Apache). Ross carved his name in the record books with a North American record speed of 154.06 miles per hour on skis. That’s not just fast—it’s historic. This song captures that raw speed, that fearless edge, and the pride of seeing a Native athlete dominate a world stage.
This is only the beginning. “Ross Is Fast!” is the first taste of a bigger collection I’ll be sharing soon—an album dedicated to the greatness of Native athletes who inspire us all.
Stay tuned, because this project is just getting started. More songs are coming, more stories will be told, and NDN All-Stars will continue to do what we do best: Promoting Great Native Athletes – Past & Present!
Check out our preview tune below:
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
The Greatest Catcher of All Time? The Game Still Says Yes
When you grow up watching baseball, you hear a lot of names tossed around as “the greatest.” But when it comes to catchers, there’s not much debate — it’s NDN All-Star #10 Johnny Bench (Choctaw). And after reading Gordon Wittenmyer’s recent deep dive article “Why greatest catcher in MLB history Johnny Bench ‘didn’t reach the level I could have'” for the Cincinnati Enquirer, I was reminded why that’s the case. If you haven’t read the article yet, make the time. It’s a full-circle look at how Bench didn’t just play the position — he reshaped it.
Bench Transformed the Catcher’s Mitt — and the Catching Mindset
Bench was already a star by 19. Rookie of the Year. Gold Gloves. MVPs. But what stood out most to me in this article wasn’t the stat line — it was how he changed the tools of the trade. After taking a couple of brutal foul tips off the thumb, Bench decided enough was enough. He pulled most of the padding out of his mitt, switched to a hinged glove, and started catching one-handed with his throwing hand tucked safely behind him. What seems standard today was revolutionary then — and not always welcomed.
Spoiler alert: he didn’t ruin catching. He made it better.
A Generation of Catchers Followed His Lead
The article walks through how guys like Bruce Bochy, Bob Melvin, and Dan Wilson all patterned their games — or their mental approach — after Bench. And it’s no exaggeration. Melvin even admitted he couldn’t hear the scouting report before his first big league start because Johnny Bench had just walked into the room.
A Health Scare Changed His Path — But Not His Greatness
What really hit me, and what separates this story from just a glowing career retrospective, is the moment things changed for Johnny. At the peak of his powers in 1972, doctors found a lesion on his lung. Back then, there was no non-invasive way to check if it was cancer. So they cut into him — a massive chest surgery, through muscle, bone, and nerves. The lesion was benign, but the damage was done. Bench said it himself: “It was never Johnny Bench anymore.”
Still, what he did after the surgery would be a full Hall of Fame career for most. More All-Star Games. More Gold Gloves. A World Series MVP. Four more 100-RBI seasons. He never let the surgery define him, even if it changed the path.
Personal Tragedies Forged His Mindset
The article also touches on the personal side — the tragedies and close calls that shaped who he became. A bus crash in high school that killed teammates. A near-fatal head-on collision with a drunk driver. These moments gave him a sense of perspective early on. “Life happens. And life doesn’t happen,” he said. That quiet strength carried into everything he did — on and off the field.
A Leader On the Field and in the Clubhouse
Sparky Anderson saw it too. As a first-year manager in 1970, he pulled Bench into leadership right away — not just in the clubhouse, but in game decisions. Bench, Perez, Morgan, and Rose became the core of what we now know as the Big Red Machine. But it was Bench who set the tone. “If we were on the field, they had to be on the field,” he said.
His Influence on Catchers Still Shows Up Today
And to this day, catchers are still walking the path he laid down. From the stance, to the gear, to the mindset — it all traces back to him. Melvin still remembers missing the scouting report in his MLB debut because he couldn’t stop staring at Bench. Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson has his jersey framed. And you can still find young kids wearing a Rawlings Johnny Bench model glove, like it’s 1975.
Johnny Bench Built a Bridge for the Future
Wittenmyer ends the piece with a moment that says it all. Bench quotes an old poem about a man who builds a bridge — not for himself, but for the ones who come after him. He says, “I built a good bridge.” And he did. Not just for catchers, not just for Reds fans — but for all of us who watched, learned, and dreamed a little bigger because of the way he played.
I was one of those kids. I started out playing ball on the Rez with no idea that Bench was Native too. I just knew he played the game like no one else — confident, smart, and built for the moment. Finding out later that he was Choctaw? That just made the bridge he built feel even more solid.
NDN All-Star #10 Johnny Bench might say he never reached his full potential. But for the rest of us? He gave us more than enough.
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
NDN All-Star #20 Henry Boucha: The Electric Indian
For kids growing up in Minnesota, hockey was everywhere. Cold winters, frozen ponds, and local rinks were part of daily life. But for Native kids, it was rare to see someone who looked like them playing at the highest levels. That’s why NDN All-Star #20 Henry Boucha (Ojibwe) meant so much. He wasn’t just a great player—he was NATIVE!
Henry Boucha was Ojibwe, from Warroad, Minnesota—a small town with a huge hockey tradition. Warroad has produced NHL players before, but Henry stood out from the start. He was a star at Warroad High School, leading his team to the 1969 state championship game. People still talk about how dominant he was that year. Fast, skilled, and fearless—he played both defense and forward, and his intensity lit up the rink. That’s how he earned the nickname “The Electric Indian.”
After high school, Henry joined the U.S. National Team and played in the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, Japan. He helped Team USA bring home the silver medal. That alone would have made for a proud career—but Henry was just getting started.
Later that year, he joined the NHL after being drafted 16th overall by the Detroit Red Wings. He made an instant impact. I remember watching clips of his early games—his skating, his puck control, and his signature red headband made him stand out. He scored a goal in his very first game and was named Detroit’s Rookie of the Year.
Henry later played for the Minnesota North Stars and Kansas City Scouts, but his best NHL days were probably with the Red Wings. He had speed, strength, and a style of play that was exciting to watch. And for Native fans, seeing that headband flying down the ice made everyone proud.
But like too many stories, his playing career was cut short. In 1975, during a game with the North Stars, Boucha took a high stick to the eye. The injury was serious, and even though he tried to return, his vision never fully recovered. He was only 24. The game lost a star, and we lost someone who was just hitting his stride.
Still, Henry didn’t fade away. After retiring, he went through some hard times, but eventually found strength by reconnecting with his Ojibwe heritage. He became an advocate for Native youth and worked to bring attention to Native issues. He spoke out, gave back, and kept showing up for his community.
In 1995, he was inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame. For me, that felt like long-overdue recognition. He’d already earned the respect of fans, players, and coaches. But that honor made it official—Henry Boucha was one of the greats.
What makes Henry Boucha unforgettable isn’t just his stats or even his nickname—it’s how he carried himself. He played hard, stood tall, and never hid who he was. For Native kids who loved hockey, he was proof that Native players belonged out there!
So yeah, I’ll always remember NDN All-Star #20 Henry Boucha—the Electric Indian—not just for what he did on the ice, but for what he meant to the game, and to us.
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
As a lifelong sports fan, I’ve always paid close attention when a Native athlete makes it to the big leagues. For me, seeing NDN All-Star #19 Ethan Bear (Cree/Ochopawace) take the ice in the NHL was a significant moment. It meant a lot—not just because of his talent, but because of what he represents.
Ethan Bear is from the Ochapowace Nation in Saskatchewan, and he grew up playing hockey just like a lot of kids in Canada. Hockey has always been a huge part of life in the north, and while it’s still not an easy road for Native players, hockey has actually had more Indigenous representation over the years than many other major sports. From early players like NDN All-Star #22 Fred Sasakamoose (Ahtakakoop Cree) to modern names like NDN All-Star #48 Carey Price (Dahelh), the NHL has quietly had a stronger presence of Native athletes than people often realize. That’s part of what makes Ethan’s story so important—he’s carrying on a long, proud tradition.
He played junior hockey with the Seattle Thunderbirds in the Western Hockey League, where he quickly became one of the most solid defensemen in the league. I remember reading about how he could control the puck, take smart shots from the blue line, and hold his ground under pressure. Scouts noticed, too. The Edmonton Oilers drafted him in 2015, 124th overall. That might not sound like a top pick, but he earned his shot and made it count.
Ethan made his NHL debut with the Oilers in 2018. Seeing a Native player out there, wearing that jersey, skating with confidence—it meant something. And then in 2020, during an exhibition game, he wore his jersey with his name spelled in Cree syllabics. That wasn’t just a cool detail. That was pride, front and center.
Since his debut, Ethan has played for several NHL teams, including the Carolina Hurricanes and the Vancouver Canucks. As of now, he’s skating with the Washington Capitals. Along the way, he’s had to deal with some things most players don’t—ignorant remarks online, and a lack of recognition for what it means to carry your culture into a game that doesn’t always highlight it. But Ethan hasn’t backed down. He’s spoken up, stayed steady, and kept showing up.
One thing I really admire is how he carries his heritage with him. He has his name written in Cree syllabics on his hockey sticks. It’s not loud or flashy, but it’s meaningful. It’s there during every practice, every game—a quiet but steady reminder of who he is and where he comes from.
Ethan Bear is more than just a defenseman. He’s part of a legacy of Native players in the NHL who’ve made their presence felt, even if the league hasn’t always made a big deal about it. He’s also a role model for Native youth who dream about playing at the highest level. He reminds us that our stories belong in every sport—even ones like hockey, where Native athletes have been present for decades, even if we not always seen.
Watching Ethan play reminds me that pride, identity, and community matter just as much as stats and trophies. His career is still going, and I’m excited to see what’s next for him.
But even now, I can already say this—NDN All-Star #19 Ethan Bear has made his mark. And for a fan of Native American athletes like me, he’s someone we’ll always root for.
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
Let me tell you about a basketball player who doesn’t always get talked about, but definitely should be— NDN All-Star #17 Gary Gray (Delaware). If you’re a fan of Native athletes like I am, you might already know a few big names. Jim Thorpe, Notah Begay, Johnny Bench… But Gary Gray is one of those guys whose story deserves more attention, especially because he played in a time when Native representation in pro sports was almost nonexistent.
Gary was born in Fort Cobb, Oklahoma, in 1945. He’s a proud member of the Delaware Nation. There’s something special about seeing someone who comes from a background like yours—or your community—go on to do something big.
He went to Fort Cobb High School, a small school in a small town. But his skills were anything but small. Playing guard on the basketball team, he was the kind of player who could lead a team with both his talent and his smarts. And he didn’t stop there. He went on to play college ball at Oklahoma City University, also known as OCU.
Now, OCU isn’t a huge basketball powerhouse like Duke or Kentucky, but back in the mid-1960s, they had something special going—and Gary was a big part of that. In 1966, he led the team to win the All-College Tournament. That was a big deal, especially in Oklahoma, where that tournament has a long history. He also helped take OCU into the NCAA Tournament that year, showing that he could hold his own on a national stage.
And here’s something else that really stands out to me: Gary wasn’t just a player—he was a student too. He was named an Academic All-American for the 1966–67 season. That means he was putting in the work in the classroom as well as on the court. That’s no easy task, and it says a lot about him as a person.
Then came 1967. That year, Gary Gray got drafted into the NBA. The Cincinnati Royals (now the Sacramento Kings) picked him in the third round, 26th overall. That’s the same team that had Oscar Robertson, one of the all-time greats. Imagine walking into the locker room and seeing a legend like that—especially as a young Native player just breaking into the league. (He was also drafted by the Dallas Chaparrals in the 1967 American Basketball Association Draft but opted to play in the NBA.)
Gary played 44 games for the Royals during the 1967–68 season. His stats might not blow you away—he averaged 2.4 points per game—but I don’t think that tells the whole story. Just making it to the NBA is huge. It’s something most players only dream about. And doing it in the ’60s, as a Native American? That takes something extra.
After that season, the Milwaukee Bucks picked him in the 1968 expansion draft, but he didn’t end up playing for them. Still, his impact had already been made.
In 1986, Gary was inducted into the Oklahoma City University Basketball Hall of Fame. That tells you all you need to know about how much he meant to the program and to the people who watched him play.
For me, Gary Gray’s story is about more than just basketball. It’s about pride, history, and breaking new ground. He helped open the door for future Native athletes to dream a little bigger.
So if you’ve never heard of him before, now you have. NDN All-Star #17 Gary Gray—Native baller, college star, NBA player, and a name worth remembering.
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
If you followed heavyweight boxing in the 1990s like I did, you knew NDN All-Star #24 Joe Hipp (Blackfeet) was the kind of fighter you couldn’t ignore. He wasn’t the most talked-about name, and he didn’t have the hype machine behind him, but he had something far more important—grit, power, and an ability to go toe-to-toe with some of the toughest fighters of his era. Over the course of a career that spanned nearly two decades, Hipp left his mark on the sport, proving time and again that he was as tough as they come.
The Making of a Fighter
Joe Hipp’s journey to the ring started far from the glitz and glamour of boxing’s biggest stages. Born in Browning, Montana, and a proud member of the Blackfeet Nation, Hipp’s path wasn’t paved with easy opportunities. He didn’t come from a famous boxing lineage, and he didn’t have the early backing that many of his peers did. What he did have was an undeniable will to fight and the kind of work ethic that made him dangerous from the start.
Hipp turned pro in 1987, grinding his way through the regional boxing scene and making a name for himself as a relentless competitor. He wasn’t flashy, but he didn’t need to be. He was a fighter in the purest sense, taking on all comers and proving himself the hard way—through action, not words.
Climbing the Ranks
From the late 1980s into the early 1990s, Hipp built an impressive record, facing some of the toughest fighters of his generation. He didn’t always get the easy fights, and he didn’t always get the benefit of the doubt from boxing promoters, but he let his fists do the talking.
One of his most memorable early fights came in 1992 against NDN All-Star #39 Tommy Morrison (Ponca/Otoe), a rising star in the heavyweight division. The fight was a brutal back-and-forth war, the kind that fans still talk about. Hipp took Morrison to his limit, battering him with relentless pressure. He had Morrison hurt multiple times, and for a moment, it looked like he might pull off the upset. But Morrison, known for his knockout power, managed to rally and stop Hipp in the ninth round. It was a loss, but it was the kind that earned Hipp respect. He had given Morrison everything he could handle, proving he could stand with the best in the division. (You can see more about this fight here..)
The Heavyweight Contender
By the mid-90s, Hipp had fought his way into legitimate title contention. He was never handed easy fights, and he had the scars to show for it. He fought through injuries, setbacks, and the politics of the boxing world to earn his shot at the WBA heavyweight title in 1995 against Bruce Seldon. This became the first time a Native American fighter challenged for the World Heavyweight Championship. Though he came up short, suffering a TKO loss due to severe facial injuries, his performance once again showcased the heart and determination that defined his career. (You can see this historic bout here…)
But his career didn’t end there. Unlike many fighters who fade away after a title shot loss, Hipp kept grinding. He knew he still had fights left in him, and he proved it in 1999 when he captured the WBF heavyweight title. It might not have been one of the sport’s major world championships, but it was a testament to his longevity and refusal to give up on his goals.
A Fighter’s Fighter
Joe Hipp wasn’t the kind of heavyweight who relied on highlight-reel knockouts or flashy soundbites to make his name. He was a throwback—a fighter who showed up, put in the work, and never backed down from a challenge. Over the course of his career, he faced a long list of dangerous opponents, always willing to take on tough fights where others might have looked for easier paths.
His ability to absorb punishment and keep coming forward made him a fan favorite. He didn’t have the chiseled physique of some of his opponents, but once the bell rang, none of that mattered. He was relentless, durable, and always willing to leave everything in the ring. His record, filled with wars against top-tier heavyweights, speaks for itself.
The Legacy of Joe Hipp
When you talk about great Native American athletes, Joe Hipp’s name belongs in the discussion. He wasn’t just a skilled boxer—he was a pioneer. As the first Native American to fight for a world heavyweight title, he opened doors for others and showed that a fighter from a reservation could make it to the top of the sport. (You can see his complete professional boxing record here…)
After hanging up his gloves, Hipp remained involved in boxing, mentoring young fighters and giving back to his community. He understood the struggles of those trying to make it in a sport that isn’t always fair, and he made it a point to help guide the next generation.
Hipp’s career wasn’t built on hype or shortcuts. It was built on toughness, perseverance, and an unshakable belief in himself. He wasn’t just a contender—he was a warrior, a fighter who proved that heart and determination could take you to the highest levels of the sport.
NDN All-Star #24 Joe Hipp may not have held the biggest titles, but he earned something just as valuable: respect. And in the fight game, that’s everything.
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
It’s time for another installment of NDN All-Stars “Firsts”.
In today’s blog post, we are featuring women’s basketball pioneer NDN All-Star #46 Ryneldi Becenti (Navajo). As a member of the Navajo Nation, she became the first Native American woman to play in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
Becenti’s basketball career started at Window Rock High School, where she quickly stood out. Her skills earned her a scholarship to Scottsdale Community College, and later to Arizona State University (ASU). At ASU, she became a team leader and earned All-Pac-10 honors. Her performance in college showed that she could compete at the highest levels of women’s basketball and set the stage for her professional career.
In 1997, Becenti made history by signing with the Phoenix Mercury, becoming the first Native American woman to play in the WNBA. Even though her time in the WNBA was short, it was groundbreaking. She inspired many young Native American athletes who saw her as a role model and a path to their dreams in professional sports.
After her time in the WNBA, Becenti played professionally in France, Sweden, and Greece. (Imagine – a kid from the Navajo reservation travelling around the world playing the game she loves!) Her international career showed her versatility and skill as a player and her ability to adapt to different styles of play. She was known for her excellent ball-handling, court vision, and leadership. These qualities made her a valuable player and a trailblazer in women’s basketball.
Beyond her basketball achievements, Ryneldi Becenti has contributed significantly off the court. She works to promote sports and education among Native American youth – speaking and coaching at clinics and camps. Her efforts to give back to her community and inspire the next generation of athletes reflect her commitment to using her platform as a basketball pioneer for positive change. NDN All-Star #46 Ryneldi Becenti’s legacy is not just her basketball career but also her role as a pioneer and advocate for diversity in sports. Her story shows the impact one person can have in breaking barriers and inspiring future generations.
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
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 GiantsMajor 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.
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
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..
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.
If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
Hey NDN All-Stars fans! Today, let’s dive into the stories history of baseball and explore the remarkable career of NDN All-Star #18 John Tortes Meyers (Cahuilla). You might not have heard his name as often as, say Babe Ruth or Jackie Robinson, but Meyers left an indelible mark on the game, and there’s more to his story than meets the eye.
Born in 1880, John Tortes Meyers, also known as “Chief” Meyers (most Native American ball players in those days were called that), was a standout catcher during the “Deadball Era” of baseball. His journey to the big leagues was nothing short of remarkable. Growing up in California, Meyers discovered his love for baseball at a young age, playing in sandlots with his friends. He played for a number of years in various minor league and semi-pro baseball leagues before he got a break. Little did he know that this passion would lead him to become one of the most respected players of his time.
Meyers’ skill as a catcher quickly caught the attention of baseball scouts, and he made his Major League debut in 1909 with the New York Giants, at the age of 28. His impressive abilities behind the plate and with a bat in hand made him an essential part of the team. Meyers played a crucial role in the Giants’ success during the early 20th century, contributing to their World Series victories in 1911, 1912, and 1913.
As a member of the Cahuilla tribe, Meyers proudly embraced his roots. In an era when diversity in baseball was scarce, Meyers broke barriers and proved that talent knows no cultural or ethnic bounds. He became a source of inspiration for many aspiring players who dreamed of making it to the big leagues.
Off the field, Meyers continued to make a difference. Upon retiring from baseball after his 8 year Major League career, he remained active in his community, working to promote youth sports and education.
As we celebrate the rich tapestry of baseball history, let’s tip our hats to NDN All-Star #18 John Meyers and appreciate the enduring legacy he left for future generations of players and fans alike.
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