Basketball has become a legacy for many families around the world, and this is no different for First Nations families. For one family in particular, basketball has become a proud expression of their heritage and culture.
The family in question is the Belcourt family, hailing from the Little Pine First Nation in Saskatchewan, Canada. The Belcourts have a long history of basketball success, with multiple family members playing at high levels and even representing Canada on the international stage.
But for the Belcourts, basketball is more than just a sport. It is a way to honor their ancestors and keep their traditions alive. The family’s matriarch, Margaret Belcourt, explains that basketball was introduced to their community by a missionary in the early 1900s. The game quickly caught on and became a way for the community to come together and celebrate their culture.
Today, the Belcourt family continues to use basketball as a means of cultural expression. They incorporate traditional First Nations elements into their games, such as drumming and singing during halftime shows. They also wear jerseys with traditional designs and symbols that represent their heritage.
For the Belcourts, basketball is not just about winning games or achieving personal success. It is about representing their community and honoring their ancestors. As Margaret Belcourt puts it, “We’re not just playing for ourselves, we’re playing for our people.”
The family’s dedication to basketball has not gone unnoticed. They have been recognized by the Canadian government for their contributions to the sport and to their community. In 2019, they were awarded the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council’s Family of the Year award.
The Belcourt family’s story is just one example of how basketball can be more than just a game. It can be a way to honor one’s heritage and keep traditions alive. For First Nations families like the Belcourts, basketball is a proud expression of who they are and where they come from.
