Category: Cherokee

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.

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 #jackdempsey #boxing #heavyweightchampion #cherokee #FIRSTS

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Thank you for your support!

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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 #15 Angel Goodrich (Cherokee) – A Trailblazer on the Basketball Court

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Post date November 15, 2023
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Hey there, sports fans! Today, let’s talk about the incredible NDN All-Star #15 Angel Goodrich (Cherokee) – a powerhouse in the world of women’s basketball. Angel has not only left her mark on the court with her amazing skills but has also made history as a proud representative of her Cherokee heritage.

Angel’s journey in basketball began at a young age, fueled by her passion for the game. Growing up, she honed her skills at Sequoyah High School in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where she was the first Division I athletic scholarship recipient in the school’s history. During her 4 years at the Cherokee-operated school, she lettered in basketball, softball and track and field, and earned All-State honors as a sprinter. She also led the school’s basketball team, the Sequoyah Lady Indians, to three consecutive Class AAA state titles.

Her dedication paid off when she played college basketball at the University of Kansas. There, she showcased her exceptional talent as a point guard, leading her team to numerous victories and earning accolades for her outstanding performance. She was recognized nationally for her abilities and accomplishments by being voted as a finalist for the Naismith Award, Wade Trophy, Wooden Award, Nancy Lieberman Award, and the USBWA Ann Meyers Drysdale Award.

After making a name for herself in college, Angel took her skills to the professional level in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Her time in the league was nothing short of remarkable. As a point guard for the Tulsa Shock (now Dallas Wings) and the Seattle Storm, Angel dazzled fans with her lightning-fast moves, precise passes, and clutch plays. Her tenacity on the court made her a fan favorite and solidified her place as one of the standout players in the WNBA.

What makes Angel Goodrich even more special is her strong connection to her Cherokee heritage. As a proud member of the Cherokee Nation, Angel has embraced and celebrated her roots, becoming a role model for young athletes with indigenous backgrounds. She has not only excelled in her sport but has also used her platform to promote awareness and appreciation for Native American cultures.

In a world where diversity is celebrated, NDN All-Star #15 Angel Goodrich stands out as a trailblazer, breaking barriers and inspiring others with her remarkable journey. From her early days shooting hoops in her hometown to making waves in the WNBA, Angel’s story is one of resilience, passion, and cultural pride. As we cheer for athletes on the court, let’s also celebrate the unique stories and backgrounds that make them the extraordinary individuals they are. Angel – thank you for being a true inspiration both on and off the basketball court!

#NDNAllstars #AngelGoodrich #Cherokee #basketball #WNBA #TulsaShock #SeattleStorm

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NDN All-Star #6 – Jack Dempsey (Cherokee)

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Post date February 16, 2023
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I selected Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) for the NDN All-Stars team because – he was the best and toughest boxer of the first half of the 20^th Century, and the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World for SEVEN YEARS!

There have been a lot of books written about NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) so there are tons of resources where you can find out more about his life and his boxing career. I will provide a short list of some of the books that I have read below. His story of growing up in poverty and having to fight in bars and back alleys to earn food money gives you an idea of the determination he had to make it to the top.

And on July 4, 1919 – in Toledo, OH, he did just that. Dempsey shocked the world when he savagely beat the reigning Heavyweight Champion Jess Willard into submission. The extent of the beating cannot be exaggerated. Willard’s face was a bloody pulp, he lost teeth, and had his jaw and facial bones broken. You can see the actual fight here.

After boxing, Jack Dempsey became a successful business man and restaurant owner. He also dabbled in acting, making a few movies in Hollywood.

NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey’s legacy and impact on the sport of boxing lives on today. His fighting style is studied and emulated by current fighters of all weight classes. Former Heavyweight Champion “Iron” Mike Tyson has said many times that his ultimate boxing hero – and the fighter that he tried most to emulate – is Jack Dempsey.

What greater compliment can you get?

NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) is certainly deserving of a spot on the NDN All-Stars roster.

NDN All-Star #2 – Sonny Sixkiller (Cherokee)

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Post date July 16, 2022
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As a huge football fan AND a huge University of Washington Huskies fan, my #2 draft choice for my NDN All-Stars team was pretty easy – the legendary UW quarterback Sonny Sixkiller!

Sonny Sixkiller was one of the first Native American athletes that I knew of or about as a kid. While my dad wasn’t a huge football fan back in the day, he did make sure that I learned who that Indian kid was that was throwing the football all over the place on tv…

In the early 1970s, Sonny was the face of college football and led the nation in passing! His winning personality and bright smile made for great publicity and photo ops! Sports Illustrated featured Sixkiller on their cover, with an article that – looking back thru today’s lens – is almost laughable in places in its attempt to be “cute” using stereotypical “Indian” terms.

Sixkiller was such a sensation that there was even a SONG written about him! Check it out!

After college, Sonny played professional football in the World Football League for the Philadelphia Bell and The Hawaiians. After the WFL folded, Sixkiller had a tryout with the San Diego Chargers but then hung up his cleats and moved on to other pursuits.

You may recognize Sonny from his role in the 1974 football movie “The Longest Yard” alongside Burt Reynolds.

If you follow Washington Husky football these days, you are sure to see Sixkiller on tv, or hear him on the radio talking about his beloved Huskies…

Sonny Sixkiller – #2 on the list, and #1 in our hearts!

#ndnallstars #sonnysixkiller #huskies #football #cherokee #quarterback

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