Fall Sports All-Stars recognized for performance

SHIPROCK

Running has almost always been about teamwork for Shiprock runner Lacey Howe.

Every meet, every race, every win and every loss was done as a team; so it was no surprise that when Howe received the 2015 Navajo Times girl’s cross-country co-runner of the year award, she credited her team.

“I couldn’t have done it without my family, friends, team and coach,” Howe said. “Cross-country wasn’t a big thing around here until we brought that state title back. I was very happy to represent my school, community, team, everybody back home.”

Howe was one of hundreds of fall athletes who were named to the all-star list and were recognized at the banquet held Monday at the Phil L. Thomas Performing Arts Center in Shiprock.
Athletes, parents, coaches and many others gathered to help recognize the athletes.

The event began with a photo session for each sport and for the coaches and players of the year.

After a welcome address, St. Michael Indian School volleyball coach Andrea Ashkie gave her speech as the keynote speaker.

Ashkie spoke of her experience with adversity and being a student-athlete from the Navajo reservation.

She shared the T’aa Hwo’ Aji T’eego philosophy, meaning it’s up to you; and talked about failure, fear, and opportunity among others.

Ashkie also encouraged the students to be successful in whatever it is that they choose for their futures.

“There is no doubt in my mind that every single athlete in this room will do great things in their life. I believe in you, your family believes in you, your coaches, your peers,” she said. “Go out there, do your best, find opportunities and ultimately, it’s only going to happen t’aa hwo’ aji t’eego aya.”

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