Pronghorn Athletics introduces Saokiawakaasi Scholarship for Blackfoot student-athletes
Blackfoot student-athletes have long been key contributors to the University of Lethbridge (Iniskim) and Pronghorn Athletics, representing the University as leaders in the classroom and on their respective teams. Today, ULethbridge and Pronghorn Athletics is excited to introduce the Saokiawakaasi Scholarship, a student award designed to create even more opportunity for Blackfoot student-athletes.
As well, Pronghorn Athletics is pleased to announce Jack-Henry Fox-Grey, a third-year transfer forward with the Horns men’s basketball program as the first recipient of the Saokiawakaasi Scholarship.
“I am incredibly honoured to not only be the first recipient of this scholarship, but to also be a positive role model for a younger generation of Indigenous athletes in my community and others,” says Fox-Grey. “This award is very helpful for me as being a student-athlete comes with a ton of different expenses from proper nutrition to keeping my body fueled, to all the different types of equipment, as well as books for school.”
The Saokiawakaasi Scholarship is available to entering high school or transfer students who are a member of any of the Blackfoot Confederacy Nations, including Kainai, Piikani and Siksika and the Ampskaapi’piikani. Pronghorn Athletics coaches are eligible to nominate student-athletes for the award, which is a $2,500 stipend handed out annually to a student-athlete in any degree program.
“Over the years, we have had exceptional Blackfoot athletes represent Pronghorn Athletics, and it is important we continue to find ways in which we can support their continued participation in our programs,” says Neil Langevin, executive director of Pronghorn Athletics. “Just as important is what these student-athletes have brought to the classroom. Our place on Blackfoot Territory is significant and these young men and women serve as outstanding role models for their communities and the generations of student-athletes who follow in their footsteps.”
Fox-Grey comes to the Pronghorns after playing two seasons with Lethbridge Kodiaks. From the Blood Reserve, Fox-Grey played his high school basketball at Lethbridge Collegiate Institute and is a six-foot-seven forward. He’ll be pursuing a Bachelor of Science at ULethbridge.
“As an Indigenous student-athlete, I do see myself as a positive role model for the next generation of Indigenous Athletes,” says Fox-Grey. “I hope that I can inspire them to strive to be just like me or even go further in their own pursuits.”
Saokiawakaasi is the Blackfoot word for pronghorn.
To view online: https://www.ulethbridge.ca/unews/article/pronghorn-athletics-introduces-saokiawakaasi-scholarship-blackfoot-student-athletes
Photo: Pronghorns men’s basketball player, and Lethbridge College transfer student, Jack-Henry Fox-Grey
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