NAIG 2014 Profiles: Alex Waditaka
- Jeanelle Mandes | June 30, 2014
ALEX WADITAKA
AGE: 15
RESERVE: WAHPETON
SPORT: SOFTBALL
Alex Waditaka, from the Wahpeton Dakota Nation, has made it to the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) to play Under 16 Softball playing left field.
He said he was happy when he found out that he made it to NAIG.
"I was like really excited and I kept thinking about who we were going to play first," he says.
He has been involved in the sport for three years now and he said he enjoys playing softball.
"I was kind of like a lazy kid but then I wanted something to do and I played softball. It got me really motivated so I continued playing it," says Waditaka.
He has been preparing himself for the upcoming games by training himself as much as he can.
"I train about three times a week. Me and my brothers play some catch at the baseball diamond here in Wahpeton."
Waditaka says there are a few people who have motivated him to reach further for his goals.
"My grandpa Doug inspires me because he's a good role model and he's always been there when I try out new stuff," he explains. "I lost my aunty Amanda a couple years ago. that inspired me to work harder," he adds.
Waditaka proves through life's challenges that nothing will bring down his drive for success. He says he is excited to gain a memorable experience at NAIG.
"I'm looking forward to make new friends, to play hard and I'm hoping to bring home a gold medal."
He is undecided of what he wants to do after graduation but he says he wants to get a good job and continue staying healthy.
His message for the youth who want to play sports is to work hard and to never give up.
"Keep trying and find out what your good at and keep practicing it."
Be sure to check out more NAIG athlete profiles on our Interviews or Sports page.