Press Release: Unalaska’s Rafael Hernandez Triumphs at 2025 Native Youth Olympics
April 24, 2025 – Anchorage, AK – The Native Youth Olympics Senior Games kicked off with an electrifying atmosphere at the Alaska Airlines Center, showcasing the athletic talents of around 450 student athletes from 53 teams statewide. Among the notable competitors was 17-year-old Rafael Hernandez from Unalaska, who secured victory in the Toe Kick event with an impressive 80 inches, marking a commendable performance despite two misses.
The event, hosted by the Cook Inlet Tribal Council, included various traditional competitions, with Hernandez’s feat highlighting the strength and skill brought forth by the participants. Following closely in the Toe Kick were Drey Schaeffer from Galena and Anakin Wassillie from Lower Kuskokwim, both achieving 72 inches.
The excitement extended across multiple sports during the games. In the Wrist Carry category, Eulalia Roman from the Mat-Su region set the bar with a striking 322 feet, just as CC Carter from Mat-Su A emerged as a dominant force in several events, including the Alaskan High Kick where she achieved 74 inches.
As competitions unfolded, various high school soccer, softball, and baseball matches were also underway across Alaska, further enriching the sporting landscape this week. The vibrant spirit of competition and camaraderie was unmistakable, with teams showcasing not just athletic prowess but also cultural heritage.
The Native Youth Olympics not only celebrates competition but serves as a platform for youth to connect with their ancestry, fostering community spirit and highlighting the importance of cultural identity within sports. As the event continues over the next few days, athletes aim for additional records and personal bests while representing their communities with pride.
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Photo credit www.adn.com
