On behalf of the Homiss Wolves Junior Boys Basketball Team we are very grateful for the many people that made it possible for us to travel to Penticton for 2011 Junior All Native Basketball Tournament. Without this support it would not have been possible for us to play and eventually win the championship.
First and foremost, we really appreciate the financial support from the Hesquiaht Tribe. They contributed in a huge way and we will always be grateful. To the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, Kyuquot First Nation, Ahousaht First Nation and Ehattesaht First Nation for all the monetary contributions. All the donations helped us during our week in Penticton.
To all our hardworking parents, grandparents, aunts , uncles , best cousins (Tyler) that helped us fundraise over the last eight months, all your hard work has paid off Sylvia, Gary, Priscilla, Lelaina, Alex, Ruben, Kelly, Beverly, Francine, Albert, Cecil, Steve, Carrie and Bryce for all the countless hours that you all put in during the year. It takes a lot of time and money to get the boys to all the tournaments.
To Felix, Jean, April, Ketchkie, Lester, George, Gwen, Cecilia, Rose, and all the supporters that cheered us on to victory in Penticton, your support and encouragement was valuable beyond words. I was in awe of the tremendous support and I was so proud of all of you during the week.
Our boys, Bryce, Aaron, Sheldon, Wayne, Dylan, Darian, Cheech, Ryan, Tristan, Steve and Jalen conducted themselves so honorably on and, especially, off the court. It was a pleasure to watch all of you perform at a high level to win the 20011 JANT. This will always be a great memory for all of us.
I knew it was going to a memorable week when Marla drove all night to be at an 8 a.m. Sunday practice in Penticton. She showed a lot of dedication for her son Jalen. Marla also spent a lot of time and effort to get Jalen to Penticton from San Jose, California. She did it all on her own.
I am truly humbled by all the assistance, support and encouragement from all the people that cheered for us in Penticton and at home. I got many calls, texts and messages after the final buzzer.
Lastly, I want to acknowledge all the people, our tribe, Hesquiaht, that made it possible for our grand celebration. Uncle B for his wonderful preparation of the feast, Jason Sabbas for setting up the hall, Susan and Kelly for cooking some roasts and all the singers and dancers that performed. It is an honor for Alex, Gary, Ruben and I to be part of this team of great players, mothers, fathers and grandparents. You are all true champions.
Bruce Lucas
Coach, Homiss Wolves
