by Dan Ninham, Contributing Writer
Douglas Cloud is a member of the Red Lake Nation. He is a junior two-sport football and basketball athlete at Cass Lake-Bena High School, Cass Lake, MN.
Douglas has excelled during his basketball career. He earned the “Coaches Award” after his freshman season. There must have been a notice that he would steadily improve to where he is ending his junior season at now.
This last season he scored a career high of 50 points and also scored his 1,000th career point versus Red Lake toward the end of the season. At the time he was averaging 30.6 points per game.
Indigenous varsity athletes not only represent themselves and their families but they also represent their indigenous community.
“I’m not only a player,” said Douglas. “I also coach youth basketball in grades kindergarten to second. It’s a responsibility I take the honor in leading not only my teammates but all the younger youth coming up.”
Varsity athletes continued to experience rewarding moments in their athletic career.
“Hitting my 1,000 career points in my junior year,” said Douglas. “My hard work and dedication shows through with this accomplishment.”
Varsity athletes need to be in top performing shape by constantly developing their athletic skills.
“Weight training and focusing on a high protein diet “ said Douglas. “Hitting the gym before and after practice. Running and putting up shots.”
The indigenous core values come into play when athletes win and when they lose.
“Show respect to my opponents whether I win or lose,” said Douglas. “Respect and honor my teammates as I’m like myself. I know they have courage to face anyone on the court. I am very proud of my 1,000 points accomplishment but it humbles me to know that the creator helps guide me to be resilient against negativity while pushing forward in a positive motion.”
Douglas knows that he empowered the younger players with his leadership experience. He gives advice to young, aspiring Indigenous athletes.
“Stay committed through adversity,” said Douglas. “Keep working hard and don’t let negativity drag you down. Stay locked.”
Photo: Submitted
