By Andrew Breaker
March Madness was the brainchild of then Recreation Director Leroy Good Eagle. Over the
years, March Madness has blossomed into an annual community event for Siksika’s youth
and adults, as well as surrounding communities, with over one thousand athletes registered
across all events throughout the month of March. In the early years, it began with the
intention of supporting Siksika youth through sports—a vision that continues today. The
March Madness committee always looks to improve each year. In earlier years, there were
fewer organized club teams; today, we see more club development, although this varies year
to year, as consistency depends on personal commitment and community support.
The talent and skill development have improved and reflect the time and effort families and
guardians invest in their children, along with the coaching resources available both on and off
the reserve.
“I have personally witnessed how sports unite a family and community. Even our children
who are being raised off reserve come back to Siksika to play for their community, with both
their guardians and biological family sitting side by side cheering them on. This is the power
of sport. Not to mention all the athletes receiving support and validation from the community.
Our elders and parents sit and reminisce about their playing days while cheering on their
children, grandchildren, etcetera. We hold high hopes and aspirations for our children—this
is what it’s all about. All participants receive a shirt for showing up and playing, champions
get a custom cap and banner. We also promote movement as medicine, which is why we
include our adults as well. Fitness is a lifelong journey.”
Richard Running Rabbit shared why March Madness is important to the community and how
it supports youth. He hopes to see more organized programming for Siksika’s youth and
continued support to foster the development of athletes on and off the reserve.
“March Madness is about community and family, both your own community and family, and
the sports community.” Richard Running Rabbit on what March Madness means to him.
Hayden Yellow Old Woman is one of the basketball coordinators for this year’s 15th annual
March Madness tournament. When Hayden was a young athlete, he imagined having
guidance from Siksika people while playing off-reserve sports. There were times when he
faced racism and what felt like constant discrimination. At that time, Hayden didn’t know
how to deal with those situations, but now he is in a position to provide guidance and support
for young athletes, helping them build confidence and resilience both in sports and in life.
“March Madness is a great event for all ages; it brings communities together in a positive
environment to watch the next generation have fun and be competitive. March Madness
really starts off the tournament season for our youth basketball teams. The adult tournaments
for basketball and volleyball have made a name for themselves as well. We have the
opportunity to host teams travelling as far as Manitoba, Saskatchewan, B.C., Montana,
Oklahoma, and Florida. The hope is to continue growing each year and inspire younger
generations to continue their journey through sports.” Hayden Yellow Old Woman on what
basketball means for the community.
Playing basketball can benefit athletes in many ways. Hayden says staying physically and
mentally healthy is important—not just through basketball, but through sports in general. The
patience you develop through countless hours of training, the work no one sees, and even the
late nights in the gym surrounded by people who share the same love for the game all play a
role. The gym becomes more than just a place to shoot hoops or play volleyball; it becomes a
safe space for communication, connection, and growth. It is a place where youth can feel
comfortable being themselves.
The talent of these younger players is something to be excited about. The growth in athletic
ability and skill shows how much these youth love the game of basketball. On the adult side
of the tournaments, spectators can expect high-level competition from across Indian Country.
“It simply gives hope for the next generations, as they have something and somewhere to
look up to—a place to learn a new sport or step out of their comfort zone to build confidence
and high self-esteem. The youth deserve to have guidance in physical and mental health,”
Hayden Yellow Old Woman says on what basketball means to the community and future
generations.
Throughout the month of March, hockey has been full of action-packed games and
tournaments each week. To start, Siksika Minor Hockey teams wrapped up their playoff
games early in the month. Many of our Siksika teams put up tough fights in the playoffs but
came up just short.
Following that, March Madness officially began with an exhibition game between the Siksika
U21 Treaty team and the Kainai U21 Treaty team. Siksika came away with a high-scoring
11–10 victory, with Emery Medicine Shield scoring the game winner.
After the U21 game, Siksika hosted a youth jackpot tournament, which saw several teams
enter and compete. It was an exciting tournament filled with strong matchups and competitive
games throughout.
Closing out the hockey portion of March Madness, the women’s tournament took place on
the weekend of March 20–22, coordinated by Billie Breaker. The tournament brought in
teams from across Indian Country, making it another successful and competitive event as part
of Siksika’s March Madness
