NAIG 2017 Profiles: Tiara Buffalo Calf
- EFN Staff | June 07, 2017
Tiara Buffalo Calf is a multi-sport athlete and will be competing in this year’s North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) in basketball.
After playing in different sports, Buffalo Calf discovered her passion in basketball – a sport that she has been playing since she was in grade 5.
“I went into Nash camp in Maple Creek and got interested in the ...that’s where I started playing it,” she said.
This year will be her second time competing in NAIG – she took home a bronze medal from the last games held in Regina four years ago. It was an unforgettable experience as she describes and can’t wait for another NAIG experience.
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“It was really fun it was a unique experience because I got to meet other girls that were ,” she said. “I collected pins and traded. It was a great way to meet other athletes. I’m looking forward to seeing other teams and how competitive they are.”
She trains everyday throughout the week with the exception of Wednesday and Thursday to build up her skills in basketball.
The grade 12 student plans on going to either Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) or St. Mary’s University located in Calgary to take psychology. Buffalo Calf overcame some challenges throughout her life mainly with school and keeping up with practices.
“You have to be really good at time management and making time for your family and friends,” she said. “I got stressed out throughout the years but I made it work…that’s the only main thing.”
Her message for the youth is don’t care what others think and to get out of your comfort zone.
“A lot of times there’s going to be older girls that you’re playing with or same age or something that seem better, but you just have to be confident in yourself. Be your own motivation.”