Our Medicine, Our Game

Province: British Columbia

Community: Blueberry River FN, Doig River FN, Fort Nelson FN, Halfway River FN, McLeod Lake FN, Prophet River FN, Saulteau FN, West Moberly FN

Date: 2025

The U17 Boys All-Native Basketball team represented all Treaty 8 nations in BC, with the goal of participating in BC’s Provincial All-Native Tournament. This would have marked the first time Treaty 8 nations were represented at the tournament in its 70+ year history. The event served as an expression of a shared commitment to building strong, healthy communities through sport, teamwork, and respect.

The Jr All Native Championship was the provincial sporting event for the BC First Nations basketball community. Each spring break, First Nations teams composed of high school and middle school athletes in the 17U age group competed for the First Nation Provincial Championship title while representing their home, nation, and community. The goal was to represent Treaty 8 nations and communities at that year’s JANT in Kelowna, BC.

Training took place throughout the fall and winter, with a strong emphasis on gym work, academic diligence, and community involvement through participation in local events where support was needed.

Highligthsof this trip included:

🔥 Top 15 in BC
🔥 Most Sportsmanlike Team Award
🤝 Lifelong bonds, leadership, and pride in identity

“We’re growing a movement—one that blends culture, sport, and opportunity for future generations.” – Cedar Wechlin, team coach and mentor.

Huge mahsi cho to Cedar, our supporters and the amazing people from northern First Nations in British Columbia for making this powerful journey possible.