"To my dear friends"

Dear Terry, Percy , Brandon, and Carla,

To me the Lori Piestewa National Native American Games is all about those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that those of us who remain may lead a better life!

For the 9th straight year participation has increased. Recap:
Wrestling: 80 participants
Basketball: 996 participants (83 teams)
Baseball: 220 participants (11 teams)
Volleyball: 276 participants (23 teams)
Cross Country: 32 participants
Track: 42 participants
Softball: 480 participants (24 teams)
Grand Total 2,126

Summary:
First of all Wrestling, for a first year event 80 participants is outstanding! I feel this sport will grow and be a strong contingency in the future.
Basketball continues to produce high numbers of athletes. Operationally I feel we do a very good job in our largest sport.
Baseball: My plan is to approach the Arizona Diamondbacks to combine our resources and enhance the sport
Volleyball has leveled off. We need to research our recruiting efforts to increase participation
Track and Field and Cross Country: I thought that making these events “FREE” would be more of a factor. Operationally we need to improve Cross Country significantly and be more diligent in recruiting Track and Field athletes.
Softball dropped slightly this year due to financial reasons for multi divisional teams.

Trust me when I say that I am very conscience of the obligation and the responsibility to maintain the integrity of this important endeavor. It is my heartfelt commitment hoping that Lori would be pleased and that the family posses a deep sense of pride in the ownership of the largest Native American Sports festival of its kind in the country. WE ARE DOING OUR BEST!

With Deep love and respect,
Rainmaker