Athlete Kelsey Gamble is playing in her final year at this year’s Saskatchewan Indian Summer Games held in Ochapowace First Nation. The 16-year-old athlete will be entering into Grade 12 this fall. She is proudly representing her home community of Witchekan Lake First Nation playing with Agency Chiefs Tribal Council (ACTC) in U18 soccer as her team’s goalie.

“It’s really fun and I’m meeting a lot of new people. I’m hoping to take home a gold medal because I’ve won gold every year I’ve been in the summer games.”

Kelsey has been playing soccer since she was seven years old and has always loved the challenge of the game.

She looks up to professional hockey player, Hayley Wickenheiser, because she describes her as a good leader and does what she can to achieve her goals. Kelsey also looks up to other First Nations youth who succeed and reach their goals such as Ethan Bear.

Kelsey’s future plan after she completes high school is to work hard at becoming an RCMP officer. After the summer games, she will be attending an RCMP camp in Regina to get the feel and partial experience of what it will be like to be an officer.

Aside from the sports that she plays, Kelsey enjoys dancing jingle dress at the powwow ceremonies. Her advice to the youth who want to pursue their passion in sports is to play hard and to never give up.

“Play hard and do your best and if you don’t succeed the first time, try again. Never quit until you get to where you want to be. But remember to always have fun and be proud of who you are.”

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