Tuba City community celebrates Warriors’ win

TUBA CITY, Arizona — Nobody can say the Tuba City High School boys and girls state championships teams didn’t get their due rewards.

Navajo and Hopi tribal officials, as well as county, community and corporate officials, turned out as hundreds came to the Tuba City sports complex March 14 to honor the Tuba City Warrior and Lady Warrior state basketball champions.

Navajo Nation President Kelsey Begaye couldn’t make the gathering, but sent staff assistant Richard Begay with a message. President Begaye said in the letter that he takes pride in honoring the Warrior and Lady Warrior achievements.

“As I have told many people, I believe the Navajo Nation has some of the best high school basketball players in the southwest. With your achievements, you are setting new standards and goals for many students who will follow in your footsteps,” he said. The president emphasized in his message that the players are role models for the Navajo youth.

“As winners, you are role models for us all. Your strength, commitment and determination have brought you much success and it will take you far into the future,” he said.

President Begaye urged the athletes to stay true to themselves and to others who have helped them achieve their goals. “Your destiny will remain pure if you hold onto the values that are taught by your success. When you carry these values throughout life, it will aid you in making the right decisions. It will guide you toward a fulfilling life,” he said.

President Begaye emphasized that stories like this are typical of successful people. “It is a great compliment to your family and community,” he said.

Hopi Chairman Wayne Taylor Jr. encouraged the state champions to continue to serve as role models.

“You are role models now. We need you young leaders to lead our nations,” he said.

Hopi Vice Chairman Phillip Quochytewa Sr. and Coconino County Supervisor Louise Yellowman also honored the state champs with words of congratulations.

KTNN, KUYI and KGHR covered the festivities along with area newspapers. Vincent Craig and Marlenea Begay supplied the entertainment. There was plenty of royalty in the crowd including Miss Western Navajo Teen Kayla Henderson.

Craig spoke of candy bars, but he also called Tuba City the community of champs — a place where the spirit of Chissie continues to reside.

The boys and girls state champs signed autographs for their classmates, younger kids and the community.

Tuba City High School State Champion Coaches Tamyra Rogers and Charles Gover (sorry coach, but ladies first) received numerous plaques and gifts of appreciation from the community including from NTUA, Radio Shack and Pizza Edge.

The cheerleading squad and the wrestling team also received recognition for their seasons. The festivities had started with a parade that came during extremely windy conditions, but after fighting rain and snow all winter to get to games, the Warriors and Lady Warrior fans continued to be a hearty bunch.

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