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Thursday, Mar 28th

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Navajo girls winning basketball teams honored at rallies

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Navajo president, vice-president visit Shiprock

SHIPROCK – President Russell Begaye told the Shiprock Lady Chieftains that their 4A State Championship contributes to the momentum that is moving the Navajo Nation forward toward bringing about positive change.

“The pride out here is phenomenal. It translates from high school sports and unto areas like community and business development,” Begaye said. “We feel the momentum in the spirit of wanting to see change and make things happen.”

Begaye and Vice President Jonathan Nez joined Navajo Honor Riders in escorting the Shiprock’s Championship Lady Chieftain basketball team to a tailgate rally held at the Shiprock Youth Complex on Sunday, Mar. 19.

Nez congratulated the Shiprock Lady Chieftains and Tohatchi Lady Cougars for winning basketball championships and not giving up, even when they were down by double digits during the championship games.

“We can learn a lot from these young ladies. Talk about sheer heart and determination. They never gave up and I appreciate these young ladies for modeling self-determination for us during the state basketball championship,” Nez said.

He noted that two Arizona teams, St. Michaels and Valley-Sanders, and two New Mexico teams, Shiprock and Tohatchi, from the Navajo Nation brought home championship trophies with the strong support of Navajo fans.

The Shiprock Lady Chieftains took the coveted 4A blue trophy by defeating the number one Hope Christian Lady Huskies, 47-42. The Tohatchi Lady Cougars defeated the number Eunice Lady Cardinals, 57-50 for the 3A New Mexico State Girls basketball title.

Both Begaye and Nez also traveled to Tohatchi on March 18 to celebrate the Lady Cougar’s state championship and participate in the parade.

“It was a sight to behold, to be there and witness a comeback by both teams. The girls displayed their heart in wanting the win. With the crowd backing them up, it brought together elements that produced championships for both communities,” Begaye said.

Nez said all teams set a great example of striving for their goals and aspirations.

President Begaye extended his appreciation to Vice President Nez’s support of wellness efforts and the support of all Navajo Nation staff and Division Directors for wanting to make the Nation successful.