by Dan Ninham, Contributing Writer
Three sport senior athletes contribute to their varsity teams by being focused in their training and competing in a purposeful manner. They don’t waste time because every day is a day closer to the end of their season … but also a day closer to college athletics.
Dimitrius Harris is an enrolled member of Turtle Mountain and descendant of Red Lake Nation. His Indian name is Red Thunder Boy. He is a three-sport senior athlete at Red Lake High School in Red Lake, Minnesota.
Harris’ major athletic accomplishments were being named all conference in football and he recently had a 20/20 game (21 pts and 20 rebounds) in a basketball game. A sub section championship in 2024 was also a highlight.
Representing your indigenous community as a varsity athlete is significant.
“There are a lot of younger kids that look up to us and being able to play for our people is special,” said Harris. “The community really supports our basketball team every year.”
Harris believes every moment he puts on a varsity uniform is a rewarding moment.
“Every moment I get to step on the court or field with my teammates is always rewarding,” said Harris. “I take pride in playing three sports and wearing that Warrior uniform.”
Athletes need to continue to work on their game skills in practice to keep a competitive edge.
“I’m working on hitting the weight room to get stronger to be able to get to the hole more efficiently,” said Harris. “I want to be ready for college basketball next year when I plan to play at Red Lake Nation College.”
The young, aspiring Indigenous athletes look up to the high school varsity athletes.
“My advice to young inspiring athletes is to continue to learn, work hard, train and make yourself coachable,”
said Harris. “You should also be able to push yourself to be great and accomplish what you want in your life.”
“A big part of being a student athlete is making sure you have good grades and doing the work on and off the court,” added Harris.
Photo: Kylie Visuals
