By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT Tennis strengthens pathway for Native Youth

NB3 Foundation is continuing to grow its NB3FIT Tennis program following a recent professional development trip to Dallas, Texas. NB3FIT Program Coordinator Mia Freeland participated in the USTA Foundation Impact x Community Tennis Development Workshop (CTDW), bringing back new tools, fresh energy and a clear vision for how tennis can continue to be a fun opportunity for Native youth.

As one of the newer NB3FIT sports, tennis represents an important step in increasing access to sports that have not traditionally been widely available in many of the Native communities we serve. Through grant support, the program is able to provide equipment, curriculum and welcoming environment that helps youth confidently step onto the court for the first time.

The national convening focused on strengthening National Junior Tennis and Learning (NJTL) and Community Tennis Association (CTA) organizations across the country. These community-based nonprofits use tennis to help educate and empower players on and off the court.

NB3 Foundation is proud to be a first-year NJTL chapter member and grant recipient through the network. For Freeland, the experience offered both practical tools and meaningful connection. One of Freeland’s biggest takeaways was the power of red ball tennis to accelerate early player development.

“One of the biggest takeaways from the training was the effectiveness of red ball tennis in accelerating early player development,” Freeland said. “By scaling the court and using slower balls, young players can rally, compete and build proper mechanics much earlier in their tennis journey.”

The approach creates quick wins for beginners, helping build confidence while reinforcing strong fundamentals. It also supports a more inclusive environment where youth of all skill levels can experience success and stay engaged in the sport. Freeland even had the chance to jump into the action herself during an evening red ball session with other chapter leaders, building new friendships and seeing firsthand how fun and accessible the game can be at any stage of life.

Beyond technical skills, the training reinforced a coaching philosophy that closely aligns with NB3FIT’s youth-centered model.

“Coaching tennis has guided me to lean away from performance outcomes and prioritize long-term development and life skills,” Freeland shared. “Tennis is a tool to teach teamwork, discipline, resilience and confidence. I see coaching as mentorship first.”

That mindset continues to shape how NB3FIT Tennis is being built, with intentional focus on meeting youth where they are and creating positive first experiences in the sport.

The conference concluded with an inspiring keynote from Martin Luther King III and Andrea Waters King, who spoke about the importance of service and using sport to create meaningful community impact. Their message echoed the legacy of tennis legend Arthur Ashe, founder of the NJTL network, who launched the initiative to provide free and low-cost tennis and education opportunities to underserved youth while emphasizing leadership and character development.

With spring tennis approaching, NB3FIT is focused on continuing to build momentum and create welcoming entry points for youth and families. Families who join this season can expect a supportive environment that emphasizes fundamentals, confidence and personal growth. The program prioritizes effort and attitude alongside skill development, with the goal that every child leaves the court feeling accomplished and motivated to keep improving.

To register for NB3FIT Tennis visit www.nb3foundation.org/nb3fit

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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT golf specialist returns with new tools to elevate jr golf

NB3 Foundation continues to expand high quality opportunities for Native youth through its growing junior golf program. Recently, NB3FIT Golf Specialist Demitrius Payne traveled to Ridgefield, Conn., for hands-on training in the Player Development Index (PDI) an assessment tool that measures and tracks an athlete’s physical, golf and mental skills. With the certification complete, NB3 Foundation now has one of only two certified PDI coaches in the state of New Mexico, further strengthening support for junior golfers in program.

“Becoming one of only two certified PDI coaches in New Mexico positions us to bring even stronger, data-informed support to the youth we serve,” Payne said. “I believe this will help set our golf program apart. PDI gives us a better way to evaluate not only what youth are learning, but how their overall experience improves over time.”

The PDI can be used with golfers of all levels, making it a strong addition to the NB3FIT junior golf program, which serves local youth ages 6 to 18. The opportunity came through Notah Begay III’s relationship with the Golf Performance Academy, the group that developed PDI. After learning more about the system and its potential impact, Payne was invited to participate in the certification training.

“It was a great experience getting to train with the team that developed PDI and to hear directly why they assess skills the way they do,” Payne said. “One of the key highlights of the trip was being able to share more about the foundation and everything we do, including the Native Youth Golf Championship.”

Since the academy already conducts assessments at the NB3 Junior Golf National Championship, the connection may help further elevate the Native Youth Golf Championship experience for Native youth golfers who travel to New Mexico to compete each summer.

Payne said he is excited to put what he learned to practice this spring as NB3FIT Jr Golf is slated to start practices in early March.

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By NB3 Foundation

More than miles: Why we run

Last week, 17 NB3FIT Run Club youth traveled to Shelbyville, Ind., to compete in the 2025 USATF National Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships on Saturday, Dec. 13. Representing their teammates and communities, the runners took on the national stage in one of the country’s premier youth cross-country events.
Our team mantra says it best:

Run for your people. Run for your team. Run for yourself.

Some might ask why we would take a group of youth halfway across the country to race in the freezing cold. Why invest so much time, energy, and care into youth sports, especially when it means early mornings, long travel days, and stepping outside of our comfort zones?

The answer looks different for everyone. Each runner shows up with their own reason. Some run for fun. Some run for their health. Some run for their families, their communities, or the people who believe in them. Those reasons can be personal, shared, or rooted in something bigger, but every one of them matters.

What becomes clear, every season, is that running gives back in powerful ways. It brings us together as a team and as a community. It teaches commitment and perseverance. It can quiet a busy mind or build confidence where it didn’t exist before. Through running, our youth learn that they are capable, supported, and never alone.

The NB3FIT Running Club has officially finished another cross-country season, and our youth didn’t chase their reasons on their own, they chased them together. That is why we show up, travel far, and keep investing in youth sports. Because when native youth run, they carry their people, their team, and themselves with them every step of the way.
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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT Day brings families together through movement and play

NB3FIT Day brought families and community members together for a fun, active day focused on movement, health and connection. Held in celebration of Native American Heritage Month, the event highlighted the importance of creating safe, healthy spaces where Native youth and families can thrive.

The event featured seven activity stations designed to encourage physical activity and participation for all ages. More than 70 community members attended throughout the day, enjoying opportunities to move together, learn about healthy living and connect with local organizations that share a commitment to youth and family well-being.

NB3 Foundation extends sincere thanks to the community partners who helped make NB3FIT Day a success by sharing their time, expertise and energy:

  • Tamaya Wellness Center

  • Tamaya Recreation Program, including Tanya Chino, Kelly Raton, Kevin Montoya, Demetria Madalena and Cameron Garcia-Sandoval

  • Santa Fe Indian School, Bill Coriz

  • San Felipe Pueblo Project Venture, Adelbert Quiver and Joe Ansera

  • Powwow Wellness, Niko DeRoin-Silva

  • NHI/Running Medicine, Jessica Begay

The event was also supported by 16 youth volunteers from the NB3 Foundation Youth Council, Albuquerque Academy DECA and the NB3 Foundation golf team. Youth volunteers assisted with activities, participant engagement and event flow, helping create a welcoming and positive experience for all attendees. Their involvement reflects the NB3 Foundation’s continued investment in youth leadership.

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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT cross country runners peak at state meet in Acoma Pueblo

The NB3FIT Cross Country team closed out its regular season with an impressive showing at the New Mexico state meet Oct. 25 at Sky City Casino in Acoma Pueblo. The race capped a season of hard work, determination and steady improvement across all age groups.

A total of 39 runners set new personal records, and 21 athletes cut two minutes or more from their earlier season times. The results are a true reflection of dedication and growth, showing that the team peaked at the right time and is ready for the regional meet in November.

Major time drops came from athletes including Gabriel Draper Jr. (3:28), Zacharias Chavez (7:28), Marlin Coriz (4:37), Diego Draper (4:55), Kee’nu Casiquito (7:25), Lehi Silentwalker (3:46), Tanner Montoya (8:35), Demari Nastacio (4:21), Jacob Segay (4:10) and Julianna Garcia (10:09). Many other runners also improved throughout the season.

Additional highlights included:

  • Emma Ansera ran 13:34, improving by 5:35 and maintaining a season-long streak of progress.

  • Mason Durand finished in 10:08, cutting more than a minute from his early-season time.

  • Gabriel Draper Jr. set a new personal best of 11:38, improving nearly four minutes since his first race.

  • Tobias Loretto placed second in the 8U boys division with a time of 8:17, showing consistent top-level pacing all season.

  • Amias Chavez dropped his time to 15:35, marking a major leap forward.

  • Riley Campbell finished in 10:19, breaking into a new speed zone and setting a strong benchmark.

  • Torianna Pena finished at 11:20, showing steady improvement and strong pacing.

  • Taymani Loretto placed third in the 9–10 girls division, finishing with a personal record of 11:48.

  • Jasilyn Reano ran 13:14, breaking under 14 minutes for the first time this season.

  • Sealth Wright cut nearly two minutes off his previous record while maintaining consistent progress.

Congratulations to the entire NB3FIT Cross Country Club for a season of commitment and growth. Your hard work and community support made this year a success.

The team now turns its focus to the 2025 USATF Region 10 Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships. Families and community members are invited to come out and cheer on the runners as they aim to qualify for nationals.

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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT Cross Country season underway

The NB3FIT Cross Country season is off to a strong start with more than 100 youth runners representing tribal communities across New Mexico and beyond. Two meets are already in the books — the season opener hosted by Albuquerque Athletics meet at John B. Roberts Dam on September 20 and the Running Medicine meet hosted at Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) this past Saturday.

It’s been a fun and competitive start, with runners building momentum each week. The team now looks ahead to this Saturday’s race at Bullhead Park hosted by Dukes Running Club, where even more athletes will join following the conclusion of Pueblo cross-country meets.

NB3FIT runners are also preparing to host their own annual event, the 2025 Traditions Run, a free USATF-sanctioned meet open to all youth runners. The race will take place on San Felipe Pueblo behind Black Mesa Casino, featuring a true cross-country course with scenic views and challenging terrain. Youth and teams are encouraged to register before the October 14 deadline. More race updates to come as the season moves forward.

Albuquerque Athletics John B Roberts Results

Team Boys Results
8U (2,000 meters): 5th place
9–10 (3,000 meters): 4th place
11–12 (3,000 meters): 4th place
13–14 (4,000 meters): No team score listed
15–16 (5,000 meters): No team score listed (NB3FIT runners placed 1st and 2nd individually)

Team Girls Results
8U (2,000 meters): 3rd place
9–10 (3,000 meters): 2nd place
11–12 (3,000 meters): 3rd place
13–14 (4,000 meters): No team score listed
15–16 (5,000 meters): No team score listed

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By NB3 Foundation

NB3FIT Tennis launches in Bernalillo

This fall, NB3FIT introduced a new sport to its lineup: tennis. Hosted at Bernalillo High School and led by NB3FIT program coordinator Mia Freeland, the free program welcomed nine youth participants eager to pick up rackets and learn the game.

For many Native youth in New Mexico, tennis is a sport they may not otherwise have the chance to experience. NB3FIT Tennis was created to change that, providing access, exposure and a supportive environment for youth to build confidence on the court.

Over the course of the season, participants are learning the fundamentals of the game, including tennis etiquette, the rules of play and the basics of rallying. While developing their skills, they are also building qualities that will serve them well both on and off the court.

NB3FIT is proud to expand its program with tennis, continuing its commitment to opening doors and creating healthy opportunities for Native youth.

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By NB3 Foundation

Native Youth Golf Championship shines at Santa Ana Pueblo

The 2025 Native Youth Golf Championship brought together some of the best young golfers in Indian Country. From July 20 to 22 at Santa Ana Golf Club, more than 60 Native youth competed on a championship-level course, gaining valuable experience and testing their skills.

Now in its sixth year, the championship continues to provide Native youth the opportunity to come together and compete at a high level with the chance to advance to the NB3 Junior Golf National Championship. Players advancing to nationals will have the opportunity to play among the best, gain exposure to the growing world of junior golf and take part in an experience that supports both athletic and personal growth.

NB3 Foundation founder Notah Begay III hosted a golf clinic to open the event, sharing lessons on fundamentals, strategy and mindset.

“You all are the best Native youth golfers in America,” Begay said. “This is a tough game, and I’m very real about what it takes to play at a high level. This is where it starts. This is where we get a good sense of what it requires to be a tournament golfer.”

The championship featured standout performances across every division, highlighted by a playoff finish in the girls 16–18 bracket. In a hard-fought round, Kezia Danner clinched the win and will advance to the NB3 Junior Golf National Championship in Coushatta, Louisiana. She will replace Jada Dickson, who has already committed to playing collegiately at Haskell Indian Nations University.

This year also included several repeat champions,  Santana Parraz, Braxton Thomas, Amelia Silva, Wyatt Basford and Deviond Gachupin, who continued to showcase their consistency and growth in competition.

Division champions

  • Santana Parraz, Navajo Nation, girls 10–11

  • Braxton Thomas, Cherokee Nation, boys 10–11

  • Amelia Silva, Waianae, Hawaii, girls 12–13

  • Wyatt Basford, Cherokee Nation, boys 12–13

  • Dani McTague, Chickasaw and Potawatomi, girls 14–15

  • Deviond Gachupin, Pueblo of Jemez, boys 14–15

  • Jada Dickson Navajo Nation, girls 16–18

  • Kezia Danner, Navajo Nation, girls 16–18 (advancing to nationals)

  • Keola Silva, Waianae, Hawaii, boys 16–18

The championship was made possible thanks to Santa Ana Golf Club, the Pueblo of Sandia, NB3 JGNC and the supporters and donors of the NB3 Foundation who continue to create opportunities for Native youth to succeed. Their commitment ensures Native youth have the chance to compete, connect and grow through the game of golf. The NB3 Foundation looks forward to building on this year’s success in 2026.

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By NB3 Foundation

Hoops, heart and hard work: NB3FIT girls basketball recap

This summer was an incredible journey for our girls basketball program, filled with growth, determination and success on the court. Our teams proudly represented communities from San Felipe Pueblo, Laguna Pueblo, Jemez Pueblo, Isleta Pueblo, San Juan Pueblo, Sandia Pueblo, the Navajo Nation, the Yu’pik Nation, Albuquerque and Rio Rancho.

8th Grade Team NB3F Black
Our eighth grade girls worked hard from April through July, and it truly showed. Every tournament and every game they got better. You could see their confidence grow as they started applying things we worked on in practice: better ball movement, smarter defense, stronger communication and playing together as a team.

One of the highlights was taking second place at the Matador Tournament, a huge achievement for them. No matter what the scoreboard said, they never gave up and always competed with incredible effort.

We ended the season at the Piestewa Tournament, playing against other Native youth from all over the Southwest. The girls made it to bracket play and gave it everything they had. It was a tough battle, but they played with pride and represented their communities beautifully.

6th Grade Team
Our sixth grade girls, made up mostly of fifth graders, had a great summer season. Despite being younger than most of their opponents, they brought intensity and energy to every game.

They took first place in four tournaments, proving they could compete with and beat older teams. Their success led them to move up a division, where they faced seventh and eighth grade teams and continued to rise to the occasion. Their teamwork, growth and confidence made this group one to watch, and we can’t wait to see what’s next for them.

505 Thunder – Varsity Team
505 Thunder had a strong and competitive summer season, showcasing heart, hustle and growth every time they stepped on the court.

Their hard work led to several standout performances over the summer. They finished third at the NM Games, were runner-up at the Glenn Yellowcloud Memorial Tournament, and made strong showings at the 10th Annual Coronado Classic and the Last Chance Shootout. One of their most exciting moments came at the Salsa Slam, where they reached the Final Four, proving they could compete with some of the top competition in the region.

The team wrapped up their summer at the Native American Basketball Invitational in Phoenix, where they faced off against top Native teams from across the country. They finished third in pool play, advanced to bracket play, and competed with toughness, unity and pride through every game.

This summer has been full of growth, memories and moments we’ll never forget. Every player gave their all, and we’re so proud of the way they represented their families, their communities and themselves.

– Janee Bates, NB3FIT program coordinator and lead basketball coach

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By NB3 Foundation

A Summer of Growth with NB3FIT Jr. Golf

The NB3FIT Jr. Golf summer program has come to a close! This season, youth ages 6–18 spent their weeks building golf skills and healthy habits, with weekends reserved for PGA Jr. League play. From our youngest players taking on 3 holes to older youth completing 6-hole rounds, it was a great introduction to real course play, rules, and etiquette — all with the support of dedicated coaches and families.

A heartfelt thank-you to all the parents who showed up, walked the course, and cheered on the youth each week. Your support truly makes the difference!

We’re already looking forward to the fall season kicking off in September. Follow us on social media for updates and registration announcements!

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