NYO Games to be held in person in April 2022

WASILLA — Cook Inlet Tribal Council recently announced that the 2022 Native Youth Olympics games will be held in person in April.

This is the first chance for NYO athletes to compete in person since 2019 due to the pandemic.

NYO organizers are working diligently with COVID-19 mitigation efforts to create a safe, welcoming environment for athletes, coaches, volunteers, and fans.

Each year, hundreds of student-athletes from across the state participate in the NYO.

NYO is deeply rooted in Alaska Native culture and the events are based on abilities originally used to maintain fitness for subsistence activities. These games are designed to not only test the individual’s strengths, skill and knowledge while encouraging sportsmanship, community spirit, and camaraderie amongst the athletes.

NYO celebrates Alaska’s rich history and culture and the games are open to all students across all cultures.

First, second, third, fourth, and fifth-place finishers will receive medals and NYO merchandise for their victories.

CITC officials thanked the many sponsors, coaches, teachers, and other NYO supporters from across the nation who make the competition possible in their recent press release.

The 2022 NYO games are scheduled for April 21 through April 23. Detailed information will be released in the coming weeks.

For updates, visit citci.org/partnerships-events/nyo-games/2022-games or facebook.com/NYOAlaska

Student-athletes who are unable to attend in person are encouraged to submit video clips of their chosen events. To participate, call 281-961-4928 or email nyo@citci.org. Selected clips will be showcased during the event and on social media.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com