Atheletes sought

Scott Csernyik

4/11/2002 12:00:00 AM

The Saginaw Chippewa Parks & Recreation staff is looking for Tribal athletes between the ages of 8 and 18.

Their search isn't for an upcoming league or weekend tournament-it's to honor them.

The Anishnabe Athletic Youth Association (AAYA) has recently formed with the goal of recognizing and promoting Native athletes. The group will meet May 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Tribal Gym. Youth Facility Coordinator Chip Neyome said the meeting is a kickoff to what they are trying to accomplish.

"We're trying to promote our Native athletes," he said. "Participation in sports is a great way to better your life and stay interested in school."

Local athletes to be honored by AAYA will begin with the current school year. Those high school students who lettered in a given sport will be eligible to participate in the group's letterman jacket program.

"Besides prep sports, we are also including those youth who participate in community sports, such as little league or are on coed teams," he added. "This is a cooperative venture with officials from Central Michigan University to promote athletics."

Food and refreshments will be served at the event, which will also feature guest speakers. There will also be a special drawing for youth 8 to 14 years of age.

"We really need the community's assistance with this endeavor," stated Neyome. "We're asking parents, relatives and friends to help recognize these local superstars. We need their names, age, address, phone number and some brief information about the sports they compete in."

This information can be sent to AAYA, 7500 Soaring Eagle Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858. For more information, call (989) 775-4530.