2008 Native Youth Olympics Footage

by gcoulson 21. January 2010 00:06
Nearly 400 youth from across Alaska will assemble in Anchorage to demonstrate skills in traditional Native games at the Native Youth Olympics. The Native Youth Olympics has provided insight into Alaska's rich cultural heritage, while promoting a healthy lifestyle since 1972.

Competition is based on life skills and games of past generations of Alaska Natives, as a way to test their hunting and survival skills.


The Events

The Eskimo Stick Pull
A game of strength. Successful hunters must be able to pull a seal out of the water.

The Wrist Carry
A test of survival. This event has origins based on hunters being able to carry their game back to the village.

The One-Hand Reach
A game to test a person's control over their body.

The Kneel Jump
Similar to the Scissor Broad Jump in that the hunters must develop the skill of quick movement to be successful.

The Alaskan High Kick
A test of both strength and agility to maintain control.

The Seal Hop
A game of endurance, strength, and determination.

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What is MEDIAK?

Media Education Development Institute of Alaska (MEDIAK):  A media production program that provides hands-on, work-based learning and career preparation activities in the field of media focusing on video, radio and magazine production.  All Alaska Native and American Indian high school students in the Anchorage School District are eligible to participate in MEDIAK.

At MEDIAK, students learn by doing. And what they do is pretty exciting: MEDIAK students make videos and documentary films. They design websites and Public Service Announcements. They publish a magazine. They produce radio and television broadcasts. They have a voice. The world listens.

All the while, MEDIAK students have opportunities to earn school credit, celebrate Native cultures, experience paid internships with media professionals, and make new friends, and consume vast quantities of pizza!