What’s Poppin’? TPD and Education dept join forces to promote positive interactions with local teens

Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

There was popcorn. There was Coca-Cola. There was Sprite. And of course, there was some Pepsi, also fondly known as ‘bepsi’ on reservations all throughout the nation. The salty snack and sugary beverages provided an opportunity for the Tulalip Police Department to connect with the future of the Tribe on the evening of January 29, at this year’s first Pop with a Cop gathering.

Nearly 20 local youth participated in the event at the Teen Center, which made for some fun and unforgettable interactions with Tulalip’s finest. Following a motivational speech by Sergeant Jira, the kids got to play some one-on-one against him, as he was the only one to step up to protect the rep of TPD. While a handful of kids faced off with Jira on the court, the remaining kids excitedly cheered on their friends from the sidelines while also taking the chance to ask the other officers about their day-to-day duties as a tribal police officers. 

As the laughter and playful smack talk ensued, TPD Officer and Tribal member, Alyshia Ramon dished out bags of freshly popped popcorn as well as activity bags to the kiddos. Taking a moment to speak with Tulalip News, Alyshia shared, “We teamed up with the Tulalip Education department and what we wanted to do was have some fun interaction with the kids and have some positive engagement with them. Sergeant Jira rounded up the kids today and talked to them about excelling in sports and getting good grades at the same time, so they can be really productive and successful when they go to college. And we just wanted to let them know that we are here to support them and that we want to be here with them.” 

Alyshia stressed that they felt it was important to reiterate to the teens that they are here to serve and protect them. Which is something that tends to get lost in today’s political climate, as the women and men in blue are often times painted in a negative light. 

Said Alyshia, “When you see all the stuff that’s happening on the news today, we thought it was really important for the kids to know that we are here for them. We want to support them and hopefully inspire them to take up a career in law enforcement. Because to me, this is the best job in the world – ever. It’s the only place where you’re going to learn three types of law; federal law, state law, and tribal law. And at the same time, engage with your community.” 

She continued, “When they see someone who comes from the same community, grew up in the same neighborhoods, knowing my path doesn’t look any different from theirs, that we can choose the choices we make, they can do whatever they want in life. And that’s what I hope to inspire these kids to do – one, use your voice, and two, they can do anything and be whoever they want to be. And whatever they choose, they got us behind them to support them 100%.” 

It can often be challenging to get teens to speak on feelings and about how they are affected in a positive manner during certain events. That could be said about the three teens who we caught up with, following the Pop with a Cop event. Actions and expressions often speak louder than words, and for Enrique Shrock, Hailey Craig, and Emma Barnes, the big smiles and hearty laughter were very telling. 

After catching his breath following an intense battle with Jira, Enrique exclaimed, “Yeah, I had fun. Today, I played one-on-one with a cop, and I was shooting threes to try to win a prize. I think this was important so we could make new friends.” 

Once Hailey and Emma got their picture with two officers, they gave quick statements before returning to their conversations with the policemen. 

Hailey stated simply, “It was awesome and a lot of fun!” 

Emma echoed, “Today was amazing. All the officers are really nice and they’re fun too. And they have cool haircuts!” 

Although the event’s duration was only a brief hourlong, it is safe to say the youth had a blast at Pop with a Cop. Alyshia shared that there will be two more gatherings at the Teen Center on February 12 and 26, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30. She also mentioned that she is in talks with the Tulalip Boys and Girls Club to create a similar event to help build and foster relationships with the younger kiddos as well.

One-on-One with Archbishop sophomore Kyla Fryberg

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

For the uninformed, Archbishop Murphy girls basketball is one of the best programs going right now. They are currently 17-1 and ranked #18 in the State of Washington. Their only loss was a 54-58 nail biter to the #11 ranked Lynden Christian. 

Carving out a role for herself on Archbishop’s varsity team is 15-year-old Tulalip tribal member Kyla Fryberg. She’s normally a featurette on the junior varsity team, but because of her prowess as a defensive stopper and someone who can knock down the corner 3-ball, Archbishop head coach Ebany Herd has promoted Kyla into the big league rotation. 

During a recent matchup with Arlington High School, Kyla received playing time in the 2nd half and, in doing so, shared the court with fellow Tulalip tribal member Kierra Reese who balls for Arlington. It may be the first time ever two Tulalips shared the court while playing for the Archbishop Wildcats and Arlington Eagles. If not the first time, it’s definitely one of the only times, making it a noteworthy story in the long lineage of Tulalip hoopers. 

Following the matchup, Kyla was gracious enough to sit down with Tulalip News for a quick Q&A. 

Q: How excited are to be getting Varsity run in your sophomore season? 

A: “It’s an amazing opportunity. Playing on both JV and Varsity is letting me get to know so many of my teammates and to develop new skills. My time practicing and playing with Varsity is really making me better. I’m having fun.” 

Q: What is your role when playing with the Varsity team? 

A: “My role, specifically, is to bring energy and be a defensive threat. I’m comfortable picking up full court and using my speed [and agility] to stay with the player I’m guarding.” 

Q: There was a lot of community support in the gym. Do you get nervous playing in front of so many friends and family? 

A: “No, not really. When I’m playing, I don’t really pay attention to who’s watching or what’s happening off the court.” 

Q: Last question. If you could have the game of any basketball player, NBA or WNBA, who would it be? 

A: “LaMelo Ball. He just doesn’t care about what anyone says or is doing to try to stop him. He knows that he’s the best player on the court and doesn’t bother with all the stuff that doesn’t matter. Two years from now, I hope be leading Archbishop to a deep playoff run and be balllin’ like LaMelo.”

One-on-One with Arlington H.S. senior Kierra Reese

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Tulalip tribal member Kierra Reese is in the midst of her senior year at Arlington High School. During her four-year tenure with the Arlington Eagles girls basketball team, she’s best known as a 3-point sniper and creative passer who gets buckets against 4A Wesco competition. 

High school scouts and prep talent evaluators at Prep Girls Hoops offer the following player evaluation: Kierra is a wing who handles the ball like a guard. Her smooth handles lead to many crafty plays by her. She knows how to get to the bucket smoothly and how to use her 6’0” frame well to finish around the rim. Her game has taken a step forward since last season, being more well rounded on both sides of the ball and still being a lights out shooter. 

After an anticipated matchup with the #18 ranked Archbishop Murphy Wildcats, Tulalip News caught up with the 18-year-old, blonde bucket-getter to discuss her relationship with basketball and where she sees herself after graduation. 

Q: What does basketball mean to you? 

A: “For a long time now, basketball has always been my out. I grew up being pretty aggressive and having basketball has an outlet was a perfect way to release that aggression. So, you can say beyond being my favorite sport, it’s also my favorite stress reliever.” 

Q: How has your role on the court changed during your four years at Arlington? 

A: “Since my freshman year, I’ve been a leader. That leadership looks different from year to year depending on what the team looks like. I went from being the youngest to now the oldest.” 

Q: For those you haven’t watched you play, how would you describe your game? 

A: “I like to shoot a lot. Most of the time I’m around the perimeter looking for space in the defense or creating space for my teammates. I’ll drive, too, though. I have a strong attack dribble with my right hand. So, yeah, I’m definitely more of an offensive player.” 

Q: What are your plans after high school? 

A: “My dream scenario is to earn a scholarship spot for Western Washington University. If the scholarship doesn’t happen, then I plan to make the team as a walk-on. I’ve watched their team play and think I could be a good addition to what they are building.” 

Q: As a student-athlete, student being the operative word, what do you plan to study in college? And what professions are of interest to you? 

A: “I plan on studying Kinesiology and sporty psychology. That way I can become a coach in the future and use what I’ve learned to help players physically and mentally become their best selves. If the coaching route doesn’t happen, then I definitely want to remain in the sports field, like with athletic training or physical therapy.” 

Q: How much have your parents meant to you during this basketball journey of yours? 

A: “My parents have been everything. I literally cannot thank them enough for all the time they’ve committed to driving me to practices, games, and tournaments. It’s been so great to have my mom and dad as like an actual support system. During the toughest of times, they’ve always been there for me and been on my side most of the time. The times they weren’t on my side, they were giving me the constructive criticism that I needed to hear.” 

Q: Being Tulalip, have you enjoyed the extra support you get as an athlete and local hooper? 

A: “I’ll always be grateful for the Tribe and entire community for being so supportive. Something I’ll never forget about is during my freshman year, Tulalip TV featured me in a spotlight. It was done by Cody Faye. I’ve always felt supported on and off the court.”\ 

Q: Last question. If you could have the game of any basketball player, NBA or WNBA, who would it be? 

A: “Caitlin Clark. Not just because we both wear #22, but because I love her range and how she is so effective at getting to the basket and finishing tough shots. I like her fieriness and her aggressiveness. When you watch her paly, you can see just how much takes every game and every possession seriously. So, Caitlin Clark, most definitely.”

Marysville School District’s first unified sports program

By Kalvin Valdillez, Tulalip News

The Marysville Getchell High School gymnasium was nearly filled to capacity for Friday night hoops on January 24. The pep band and full cheer squad added to the ambiance, as well as dozens of students who donned their MGHS green and white colors, showcasing school spirit while they cheered on their team. 

The band played tunes such as The Final Countdown, We Will Rock You, and the Time Warp to help amp up the players on the floor while they hit a few warmup shots. And though some of the players were all business, with their game faces on, most couldn’t help but hide the smiles from their faces as they took in the moment.

This is the very first year that Getchell implemented a new extracurricular activities program known as Unified Sports. This program promotes inclusion by bringing students with and without special needs together on the same floor as teammates, helping build friendships and providing students with intellectual disabilities the chance to experience the excitement of high school sports. Something that they are often excluded from. 

As the opening buzzer sounded, the players hit the court to take on their opponents hailing from Burlington-Edison High. Just a few possessions into the game, Tulalip tribal member Xavier Jones got the ball on a fast break. As he hit the jets and drove the ball down the court, zigzagging between the opposing team members, he spotted fellow Tribal member, Sean “Optimus” Mace ahead of the pack near the low block and immediately passed him the rock. 

Optimus let one player zoom by and shook off another with a pump fake before going up strong and putting two points on the board for the home team. When his shot went through the net, the entire place erupted. And on his way back on defense he hit Xavier with the famous basketball nod and point of acknowledgment for the assist before blowing multiple kisses to the fans in attendance. 

Unified Sports was developed by the Special Olympics and is consistently growing across the nation with nearly 9,000 schools participating in the program today. MGHS is the first Unified Sports Champion School in the Marysville School District. And though she is quick to give credit to school faculty and leadership who supported her effort, the program was ultimately brought to the school by MGHS Special Education Native Liaison and Tulalip tribal member, Amy Sheldon. 

Amy shared, “A few years ago, I actually got invited to watch a Unified Champion Sports Game at Arlington High School and I was moved to tears to see how amazing it was and to see everyone playing together. I knew this was something I wanted to create for our school. We’re the only Unified Champion School in the district. We’re trying to make it grow and bring it to other schools like MP, but it’s a lot of buy in and a lot of work. It wasn’t easy. Without my friends, coworkers, our Native American Friends Club that shows up and helps us out, I wouldn’t have been able to do it by myself.”

Members of the MGHS Native American Friends Club were both in the stands supporting the team and also on the court, helping facilitate the game by distributing the ball to their teammates, ensuring that each person got the chance to score some points and show off their skills. What makes this story even more heartwarming is the fact that both the MGHS boys and girls varsity teams had games the very same night in Stanwood, which means everybody in attendance chose to show up for the Unified Sports team and root them on during their second game of the season. 

The unified team has numerous players on the roster, so much so that there were enough participants for three different rotations, all of whom wore the biggest grins as they made their way up and down the floor throughout the evening. The game was split into two 14-minutes halves and helped raise funds for the program by taking in donations for admission. 

Altogether, there were four representatives of Tulalip on the court, including Xavier, Optimus, and Leah Stacy, along with Sammy Reyes who is a partner of a tribal member. As the final seconds of the game ticked down, MGHS was down just a few points. The team collectively made sure the final possession went to the namesake of the local non-profit Leah’s Dream. And just before the closing buzzer sounded, Leah scored a layup to bring the game to an end. Leah jumped up and down in triumph after getting her bucket and was quickly joined by her entire team in her excitement. 

No one was more excited for her than her grandpa, Ray Sheldon Jr., who was watching from the bleachers and threw his arms in the air when she hit her shot. Said Ray, “That was really fun! I enjoyed that a lot. She’s getting better and we can see the progression. Every week she’s gaining more confidence. I think that’s what we’re trying to do here, build confidence in these kids so that they can do many, many good things in life. My grandson Sammy was able to play a little bit too. And this is a great way for them all to get some physical activity out of it. It’s exciting to see all these kids – to be able to play where they usually wouldn’t have the opportunity to play. It’s good that they all get this experience and learn how to work together.”

Following the game, Tulalip News caught up with Xavier Jones. Xavier expressed, “I had a lot of fun. We just learned how to play basketball and even though this is new, we all try our best. My favorite part is just playing more basketball with everyone and being the best player I can be.”

Amy shared that the team is currently in the process of getting in contact with other schools with a Unified Sports program and scheduling more games this season. They are also gearing up for soccer this Spring, something that all the kids are looking forward to.

“They’re amazing kids,” Amy stated. “This is important because it promotes inclusion and acceptance. We’re just starting off small and doing the best we can. I’ve always wanted this inclusion, and to see this happen is like the biggest blessing. For all the funding, I’m working on grants through the Special Olympics and Tulalip Special Olympics to help build unity. This is our first season and it’s so great to see how happy this makes people – the students, administrators, families. And I’m so proud that there are so many Tulalip students on the team, it’s amazing!”

Perseverance through basketball: Mikal Montez is digging deep at Evergreen State College

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

To fully appreciate the depths Mikail Montez has dug to maximize her lifetime of muscle memory meticulously tuned for the game of basketball and to capitalize on every second of collegiate court time, you have to know her journey. You have to know how opportunity can present itself in the face of unprecedented global upheaval, only to be struck down with devastating injury, and then present itself again in the form of a geoduck. Why a geoduck? Because they dig deep, of course. 

Let us begin. It’s early 2019 and 18-year-old Mikail is not just a three-sport athlete and leading scorer for her high school basketball team, but she’s also the reigning Marysville Getchell senior class president. Her future is boundless. She’s full of anticipation and excitement to begin her next stage of student-athlete life at Arizona State University. 

Then 2020 happens. A global pandemic sends us spiraling into social isolation, full on lockdowns in parts of the country, and a genuine fear of what could be next. Mikail is not immune from any of these 1,500 miles away from her reservation while still adjusting to life as a college freshman. So she makes the logical decision to return home.

“COVID happened during my winter quarter at Arizona State. After discussion with my parents, we agreed it was best for me to come back home,” recalled Mikail. “Eventually, all the fear and unknown started to fadeaway and the coach at Everett Community College reached out to me. Because of the pandemic and athletes returning home, they had lost like half their team and needed players. I jumped at the opportunity.

“Everett was a great experience. I was there for three years, but that first year, 2021, was probably the most memorable because it was a COVID season. The scheduling and whole dynamic about it was weird, but as a collective we came together for the love of the game and our love for each other. With everything happening in the world at that time and so many hurting from losing loved ones, that 2021 team found sanctuary on the basketball court. We were all we had. We went through a pandemic together and somehow managed to win our league championship.”

In 2022, Mikail’s on-court production reaches new heights as she begins to unlock all facets of her game. Now a fixture of Everett C.C.’s basketball program, she’s featured on both sides of the ball as both a bucket getter and lockdown defender. She starts in all 23 games that year, averages a double-double, and is awarded Everett’s Women’s Basketball Athlete of the Year.

Expectations are through the roof as the 2023 season is about to begin. When, suddenly, tragedy strikes. 

“We’re up in Skagit playing in a tournament. I’m embracing being an upper classman now and a true leader of the team. I was ballin’…the game had slowed down for me, I was seeing the game in a whole new way, and just felt like I could get us 20 points every night. Then pop!” described the Tulalip hooper like only a hooper can. That pop was the sound of her Achilles tendon tearing. “I was going for a rebound when it happened and knew instantly what it was. I was absolutely heartbroken.”

Heartbroken, yes. Spirit broken, no. Having the game you love literally ripped from you is a career ender for many an athlete. Not this one. Mikail went through a grueling nine months of physical therapy. The then-21-year-old powered through a rigorous schedule of seemingly unless stretching, workouts, and more stretching necessary to render her Achilles to pre-injury form with one thought in mind – “I was determined to get back to that place of playing the best ball of my career. I knew my playing days weren’t over. My mantra for that time was Progress matters, not Pace.”

As her fortune would have it, the coaching staff of Evergreen State College had scouted Mikail during her peak at Everett C.C. and were well aware of the all-around skill set she possessed. It was a skill set they were willing to set aside a spot for on their women’s basketball team in the hopes she’d make a full recovery and continue her collegiate career in Olympia. 

“Full transparency, I reached out to other colleges, too, seeing what my options were. I knew I could finish my degree anywhere, but I wanted to prove I could still hoop while doing it. Of all the colleges I reached out to, only Evergreen got back to me,” admitted Mikail. “I took that as a sign and opted to play where I was wanted for a coaching staff who knew what I was capable of.”

She returned to the court during Evergreen’s 2023-2024 season where she saw action in 20 games, including one start. With her minutes limited and role relegated to a bench player as she learned a new system, she averaged just shy of 3 points and 3 rebounds a game. A far cry from the double-double machine she was at Marysville Getchell High School and Everett Community College. 

This is where the geoduck comes into play. For the uninformed, the geoduck (pronounced gooey-duck) is the world’s largest burrowing clam, has an average lifespan of 140 years, is most commonly found in Coast Salish waters, and is Evergreen College’s official mascot. Oh, and the word geoduck comes from the English language’s attempt to pronounce γʷιδəθ, which is Lushootseed for “dig deep”. Because that’s what geoduck do, they dig deep. 

Mikail embraced the geoduck as her defacto spirit animal for the 2024-2025 season and, in doing so, summons every ounce of strength in her five-foot-eleven-inch frame to dig deep every game, every quarter, and every minute she gets on the hardwood. She’s a fifth-year college senior set to graduate in June with her Bachelor’s Degree. There is no next season.

Digging deep, the Evergreen forward/center has regained her status as full-time starter and perennial bucket getter. She’s rebounded from last year’s statistically down season by averaging nearly 10 points and 5 rebounds per game. Most importantly, her body is healed completely from the Achilles injury, which has allowed her to regain her confidence to battle with other bigs in the post. Something the Evergreen coaching staff were quick to implement into their offensive game plan.

“Mikail is dedicated to her craft in a way that coaches of any level would love to have an opportunity to coach,” explained Evergreen College head coach Derrick Pringle. “She’s methodical, hardworking, and, best of all, she loves the game. We offer optional Saturday practices and she’s always there, busting her butt for two hours and going home soaking wet with a smile on her face.

“When I first got here, I thought she was a wing player. But I learned quick after she told me ‘Coach, I can play the wing, but I like to bang a little bit’. Mikail’s ability to score inside from the post and outside with her 3-point touch is what makes her different as a player. Everyone wants to shoot the 3 ball and, if you look around, almost everyone does these days. But not everyone can score in the post. In fact, it’s probably the rarest of skills these days for a player to possess the patience, footwork, and physicality necessary to score so effortlessly in the post like she does.”

Her full arsenal of back-to-the-basket moves and sweet shooting touch were on full display in a mid-January matchup with the College of Idaho. A back and forth game full of all the excitement one could ask for from a basketball game, Mikail was a fixture of reliability for her fellow Evergreen teammates. In the game’s most pressure-filled moments, Mikail stayed cool, calm, and confident in her ability to score on one end and come up with a defensive stop on the other. 

In a thrilling 55-52 victory, Mikail amassed a stat line of 21-points (a season high), 8 rebounds (a season high), and 3 assists. She shot 9-13 from the field and was 2-3 on 3-pointers. “That stats are cool, but even better is the win,” said Mikail post-victory. “I felt like I was my best self out there tonight. Having the trust of teammates and coaches to have the ball in my hands with the game on the line is every basketball player dream. I’ve visualized and practiced those moments thousands of times…what I’d do to get to my spots, my footwork, my form on the shots.”

In her final season as a collegiate athlete, the now 23-year-old has regained her final form as a basketball player that the Achilles injury attempted to take from her. She’s also found the home away from home community at Evergreen College that COVID once denied her from finding at Arizona State. It’s because of those challenges and setbacks that her family so eagerly make the drive from Tulalip to the Olympia-based campus to watch their favorite baller get buckets.

“It’s great to see a tribal kid flourish off the reservation while doing her thing on the Division III level. Mikail is proud of her roots and always putting on for Tulalip wherever she goes,” shared Nathan Williams, one of Mikail’s older brothers, who regularly attends games with his 2-year-old son Winter. “Legacy and tradition are the most important things to our family, which is why it’s a priority to have my son here so he can experience the environment while his aunt is on the court getting buckets.

“The confidence in her skill is what sets her apart,” he added. “She put in a lot of time, countless early mornings and late nights, to reach that level of confidence. Plus, she had three older brothers who played and a former pro player in our household that was able to show her elite level footwork and shooting form. Mikail took the skill and athleticism our family is known for and carved out her own basketball journey. Among us siblings, she took her love for the game the furthest. I couldn’t be prouder.”

Mikail’s journey in basketball is more than just personal triumph. Her journey is one of balancing cultural heritage, academics, and athletics that all Tulalip youth should hear about or read about. Because her story is their story. To learn from, to be inspired by, and to serve as a reminder, whenever needed, that there are going to be times when the odds are long and the whole world seems like its against you. In order to persevere, you gotta dig deep. 

MP wrestling’s quest for perfection

By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News

The Marysville Pilchuck (MP) wrestling team continues to shine through an undefeated season. With seven tribal members on the team, they proudly represent their heritage and connection to the community. On Tuesday, January 14, they secured a commanding victory over the Monroe Bearcats 64-15 in front of an energized home crowd. Two days later, they crushed their northern neighbors, Lakewood, with a 66-9 win, further solidifying their dominance and improving to an impressive 13-0 in dual meets.

Head Coach Tony Hatch, a former MP wrestler from the 1980s, has led the team’s success this season. Under his guidance, the boys from Marysville and Tulalip have shown relentless drive and determination. Following the match against Monroe, Coach Hatch expressed pride in his wrestlers, saying, “They did what we expected—pretty good. We’re good friends with the Monroe coaches, and we know their program is still building. But we’re on a whole different level this year. We aim to go undefeated in dual meets; we’re currently 12-0. The kids are working hard, stepping up when needed, and you can’t ask for more than that.”

For senior Joseph Davis, a tribal member and a competitor in the 165-pound weight class, the match against Monroe was a highlight of his decade-long wrestling career. Davis achieved an impressive victory, pinning his opponent in just 43 seconds, demonstrating his skill and determination. Despite dealing with injuries from football, including a shoulder problem, Davis remains committed to making his final wrestling season successful.

  “This is my tenth-year wrestling. Overall, the season has been going well, “said Davis. “I’ve had some injuries, but I’ve managed to push through. The keys to success begin in the offseason, and my main goal this year is to win the state championship. After that, I’d love to travel the world.” 

Two more MP wrestlers achieved decisive victories in the match against Monroe. Their precision and strength in pinning opponents further showcased the team’s superiority. 

Aiden Eagle, a junior in the 215-pound weight class and a tribal member, is in his third year of wrestling and is equally determined to make an impact this season. “The season’s going well. I’m focused on staying motivated and keeping my weight in check. Wrestling is a mentally tough sport—you must keep pushing. My goal this year is to make it to state and hopefully place,” Eagle explained.

Motivation is a driving force for the team, and tribal member Garrett Reeves is no exception. The support from Coach Hatch and the friendly rivalry with his twin brother, Dylan Reeves, who is also on the wrestling team, have pushed him to improve every day. Together, these elements, along with a team culture that emphasizes hard work and encouragement, inspire Reeves to become the best version of himself both on and off the mat.

As a junior competing in the 120-pound weight class, Reeves has achieved an impressive record of 26 wins and 5 losses this season. Reflecting on his performance, he stated, “This year has been pretty good for me. I’ve placed in a few significant tournaments, and I aim to break the all-time win record here at MP. My goal is to finish in the top five at state.”

As the season progresses, the Marysville Pilchuck wrestling team remains determined to maintain their undefeated streak and secure a historic year for the program. The team is laser-focused on finishing strong, with only four matches left in the season. They’d love it if the community came out to support them at their last match of the season—the Berry Brawl—on January 30 at Marysville Getchell High School. Bring your energy, cheer them on, and be part of this exciting end to their remarkable season. 

To keep this momentum going and ensure future success, the Marysville Pilchuck Wrestling program is seeking donations to support its continued growth. Contributions are crucial in providing the team with essential resources and opportunities. If you would like to help these dedicated athletes, please contact Cassidy M. with the MP Booster Club at (425) 212-7488, and be sure to reference the wrestling team when reaching out. Your generosity can help sustain this exceptional program for seasons to come.

Lady Hawks show fighting spirit, but come up short in loss to Providence

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Scoring has been hard to come by for the (2-5) Tulalip Heritage Lady Hawks. Their average offensive output of 29 points per game can largely be explained by lack of chemistry due to multiple games of missing starters. It’s difficult to build a solid foundation of team cohesion when impact players aren’t getting the reps in games, let alone practices, that most any coaching staff could expect.

In addition, any hoop head of worth would also say low point totals are a direct symptom of cold hard bricks, or missed shots for the uninformed. Missed layups and missed free throws, in specific, can result in any team – high school, college, or professional – to suffer some offensive woes that can carry over from game to game.

On January 6, when the Lady Hawks travelled south to play Providence Classical Christian, they were at full strength and looking to make a statement in the new year. That’s not how things went, at least to begin with.

The 1st quarter was a brick fest by both teams. Seriously, the score was 0-0 five minutes in. After eight minutes of play, the Tulalip girls trailed 0-4 when finally, Raylee secured a well-positioned offense rebound and immediately shot and scored to give her team its first bucket. The quarter ended with a score of 2-4.

In the 2nd quarter, the Lady Hawks found their scoring ways, anchored by shooting guard Audrielle Mclean’s unconscious ability to shoot deep 3-pointers. She connected on three long range jumpers in the quarter to spark her team’s offensive fire power. After hitting nothing by nylon on her third made 3-pointer, Audrielle gave Tulalip their first and only lead of the game, 14-12.

At halftime, Lady Hawks assistant coach Tim Greene reflected on the first half. “We’ve missed a lot of layups and a lot of free throws (the girls missed 7 of their 8 free throw attempts). That part of the game is more mental than anything else. On the defensive side, I’ve liked the hustle they’ve shown. We need more of that energy across the board if we’re going to have a chance at winning. That and making our free throws.”

Skipping ahead to the middle of the 4th quarter, when Tulalip trailed 18-32 with only five minutes remaining, the Lady Hawks went full fight or flight mode…they chose fight. Getting into the bonus early meant they had to keep attacking to get easy scoring opportunities at the free throw line. The ball was hopping and the girls were rotating beautifully. Led by the always energetic and vocal Raylee, who was continuing to dive for every loose ball and battle for every rebound, she rallied her squad.

Point after point and bucket after bucket, the Lady Hawks slowly chipped away at their double-digit deficit until they got within just 5 points, 27-32, with two-and-a-half minutes remaining. Chants of “Defense!” even rang out from the Tulalips in the crowd. But like its been all season, defense wasn’t the issue, offense was. The girls just couldn’t buy the buckets necessary to complete the comeback. They ultimately took a 29-38 L.

After the spirited contest, Tulalip forward Raylee Lewis, the Lady Hawks leading scorer in the game and unofficial Miss Hustle award winner, shared, “We were all really frustrated with our play in that first half and in that 3rd quarter, but going into the 4th quarter our coaches told us we needed to shift our mindset. I think most of us heard that message loud and clear and did what we could make that shift. We upped our communication and our energy and you could see how much we feed off that kind of positivity. Even though we lost, there are things we can take away from this game, like continuing to play for one another and remaining positive.”

Hawks remain unbeaten with 76-43 trouncing of Providence

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

The (8-0) Heritage Hawks ventured into the realm of Providence Classical Christian on January 6 and came away with yet another resounding W. It’s been a remarkable start to the season for the Tulalip boys who made it their goal from the get go to reach the State tournament.

After reeling off eight straight wins, they hope to build off their early season success and keep the momentum going through the end of the regular season and well beyond. 

Prior to tip, head coach Shawn Sanchey said, “Our main focus right now is to stay playing at our level at all times. Regardless if we’re home or away, or what the score is, we want to be playing Tulalip basketball. We know what are goals and dreams are as a team and in order to reach them we can’t let anything keep us from playing at our own pace and intensity level.”

The high-powered Hawks also added another scorer to their arsenal. After getting his transfer approved in mid-December, Davien Parks has been ballin’ out in a Hawks jersey. Coach Shawn also said, “He’s brought so many things to our team. Great leadership, more speed, more shooting, and just an all-around versatile skillset that elevates our style of play.”

Davien showed his scoring prowess in the opening quarter vs Providence when he singlehandedly outscored the opposition by himself. He scored 13 points in the 1st quarter to pace his Hawks to a 18-11 lead after ten minutes of play.

The Hawks lead continued to soar when Tokala Black Tomahawk got aggressive and had no difficulty scoring over Providence defenders in the 2nd quarter. Sophomore guard J.J. Gray got into the ledger in the 3rd quarter with a series of athletic moves and contested jumpers that found nothing buy nylon.

Entering the 4th quarter, Tulalip led 57-26 and showed no signs of slowing down. Over those last ten minutes of play, five Hawks contributed buckets to seal the 76-43 trouncing. Davien led all scorers with 31 points, J.J. scored 15 points, and Tokala added 14 points.

In attendance for this matchup was President of the Northwest 1B League, Lindsey Elliot. She shared her excitement pregame for being able to witness the talent of Tulalip’s basketball team she’s heard so much about.

Following the victory, Lindsey said, “It’s phenomenal watching the 1B programs who have developed such talented athletes now be receiving the adulation that they deserve. As fans are learning this year with the meteoric rise of tribal teams like Tulalip and Lummi, the overall skill and style of play of the 1B game has been elevated to a new level. 

“Seeing the Providence gym be filled with home fans, away fans, and just fans of the sport who wanted to watch a fun basketball game is so huge. Because the student-athletes and the coaches who are working with them are putting in so many hours behind the scenes that don’t get recognized enough,” she continued. “So when the community comes out, fills the stands, and cheers on our wonderful athletes, it’s honoring the work the kids and coaches are putting in. There are so many dedicated to the growth of our league and I, for one, think this is only the beginning of many exciting years to come.”

Lady Hawks start off season 1-0

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News  

The Tulalip Heritage girls basketball team returned to the court for the 2024-2025 season on December 5 in an away game vs. the Shoreline Chargers. Many of the core players from last season are back, plus some key additions to give the Lady Hawks more depth and more skill sets for head coach Sabrina Moses to work with. 

“We’ve added several new players, including Aylani Lewis. She’s just a freshman, but has the game of a much older player. She’s a true point guard who can control the tempo of our offense and get us into sets that her teammates are comfortable with,” said coach Sabrina. “She’s joining her sister Raylee who played with us last year. 

“Also returning are sisters Lilly and Isabelle Jefferson to fortify our defense. I can always count on them to give full effort every minute they are on the court, which gives us an intensity we need.”

Controlled tempo on offense and intense defense were both on display by the Lady Hawks in their dismantling of Shoreline. Aylani’s effectiveness with the ball in her hands was evident from the jump. She scored 12 points in the 1st quarter by blowing by much larger defenders and scoring layups over their outstretched arms. Meanwhile, Heritage’s defense was wreaking havoc. The girls were jumping passing lanes and hounding Chargers ballhandlers into one turnover after another.

After one quarter of play, Tulalip led 16-2. They stretched that lead to 22-5 at halftime. In the 3rd quarter, Lady Hawks forward Laniyah Moore made the most of a couple well-timed offense rebounds and scored on back-to-back high percentage shots.

The Lady Hawks were rolling until an unfortunate moment of friendly fire when Aylani and fellow guard Audrielle Mclean both went for a loose ball and collided at full speed. The collision resulted in both players exiting the game; Audrielle with a forehead cut that required 5 stitches and Aylani with concussion-like symptoms.

Without their top playmakers, the Lady Hawks held on for a well-deserved 34-18 victory. Aylani led all scorers with 15 points, while Laniyah and big sister Raylee both added 6 points each.

Following the season opening win, Lilly shared, “It felt really good to get this win. For me personally, I worked a lot on my shooting and dribbling to be more confident in games. Last year, I looked to pass lot. Now, I’m looking to shoot and handle the ball more, when the team needs it. It paid off tonight after losing Audrielle and Aylani, I was asked to play point guard. It helped for me to get to the areas I like to shoot, and I made a couple buckets in that 4th quarter. It just feels good to be undefeated

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Without several starters, Lady Hawks fall to Darrington

The Lady Hawks produced a valiant effort on the evening of December 9. In their second straight road game to the start the season, the Heritage girls played the Darrington Loggers extremely shorthanded. In fact, they were down three starters; both Lewis sisters and Audrielle Mclean.

Without their primary ballhandlers, sisters Lilly and Isabelle Jefferson were asked to step up and run the offense. Playing against a Logger’s defense consistently applying full court pressure, the sisters were regularly forced to dribble around multiple Darrington defenders just to get the ball up court. The constant pressure made it difficult for the Lady Hawks to execute their sets, let alone produce an unhindered view of the basket to attempt a shot.

Undermanned and outgunned, the Lady Hawks trailed 5-28 at halftime, and ended up losing 13-47. Isabelle led the Lady Hawks with 4 points.

Even in an emphatic loss there are always positives. With the injuries, several players got extended run. One such player was freshman Janiesha Zackuse. She scored her first Lady Hawk point with a made free throw. Something she knew made her family who made the hour-long venture to watch her very happy.

“It felt pretty good to play so much. I’m tired out now though,” admitted Janiesha post-game. “We had a lot of supporters in the stands. It’s pretty awesome to see everybody who drove all this way to watch us play.”

Hawks begin 24-25 season with emphatic win

By Micheal Rios, Tulalip News

Last season, the Heritage Hawks basketball program exceeded even the loftiest of expectations. They began the season (1-3) while developing their on-court identity with a mix of stout senior players and phenomenally talented freshman. Once they found their rhythm and groove, they also discovered their winning ways. Their midseason turnaround culminated in a 2nd place finish at Districts, 3rd place finish at Tri-Districts and, ultimately, the boys fell just one win short from a State Tournament bid.

The Hawks are returning a number of players from that (17-9) squad, including the starting backcourt of J.J. Gray and Amare Hatch who are both sophomores now. They are joined by a plethora of new faces who are eager to carve out impactful roles on a team primed to build off last season’s success.

“We’re looking to accomplish all around growth for the program, and to continue developing our boys for what we hope is another lengthy post season run. Of course, this year we want to make it all the way to State,” shared Heritage head coach Shawn Sanchey. “It’s been so exciting being able to watch our program grow and to receive so much support from our community. When we’re winning in front of packed crowds, it really doesn’t get much better than that.”

The 24-25 season officially kicked off on Thursday, December 5, when Tulalip travelled to Shoreline High School for an away game against the Chargers. It was less a game and more a coming out party for the new-look Hawks. 

The J.J. and Amare pairing as playing making combo guards who can just as easily stroke a 3-pointer as they can beat their man off the dribble and finesse in a layup, scored 19 points in the early going to give their team a commanding 34-5 lead. This pleased the many Heritage fans who journeyed south to swarm the Shoreline gymnasium. 

In the 3rd quarter, newcomer Ziggy Myles-Gilford did his best Dennis Rodman impersonation by gobbling up every loose rebound and scoring off high percentage shots in the painted area. The Tulalip forward accounted for 14 points and nearly as many rebounds in that third frame. With the game all but a wrap, Coach Sanchey unleashed his bench players to have their fun during the 4th quarter. 

After the decisive 75-19 season opening victory, guard Amare said, “Our on-ball defense was on point tonight. I don’t know how many steals we ended up with, but it was a lot, that’s for sure. I think our team chemistry is already at a good place because so many of us have been playing together in Native tournaments. All those extra games and reps have gotten us comfortable with each other’s games. We want to be better than we were last year and this first W is just the start.”

In total, ten Heritage boys registered a bucket in the blowout win. Ziggy led all scorers with 20 points. 

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Hawks chop down Loggers, 90-46


With more Tulalip fans in attendance than Logger fans, the energy was more befitting a home game for the Heritage boys playing in Darrington. Chants of “Tulalip power!” rang out early and often as the Hawks break neck pace led to a 26-13 first quarter lead. 

The long ball wasn’t falling, or any jumper for that matter, but it didn’t matter because the Hawks couldn’t be denied from getting to the basket whenever they wanted. Both Hawks forwards, Ziggy Myles-Gilford and Tokala Black Tomahawk, controlled the glass and routinely corralled offensive rebounds to give their team additional offensive possessions. The two Hawks bigs combined to score 25 points in the 1st half and were a big reason why Tulalip led 47-26 at halftime.

Hawks players explaining the subtle complexities of Rez ball to an open-minded referee.

In the 3rd quarter, the 3 ball finally started to go in for the Hawks shooters. Amare Hatch, J.J. Gray, and Deveyon Wells each made a 3-pointer to help extend their team’s lead. Up big, 77-35, to begin the 4th quarter coach Shawn inserted his bench players to get in on the scoring frenzy.

Stunned Logger fans even got to witness a couple Ziggy dunks, tomahawk style. His dunks were just the cherry on top of his career night 30 points and 20-something rebounds enroute to Tulalip securing a 90-46 win.

The unbeaten (2-0) Hawks received additional scoring from Amare who chipped in 15 points, while J.J. and Tokala each added 13 points.