Central Michigan University Athletics
Chippewa Athletics Mixes It Up with Tribal Youth
11/18/2005 12:00:00 AM | General
Nov. 18, 2005
Central Michigan University Athletics was proud to take part in the Saginaw Chippewa Academy's celebration of the national "Mix It Up at Lunch" event at the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe on Tuesday.
Representing the CMU Athletics Department were Herb Deromedi, Director of Athletics, Derek van der Merwe, Senior Associate Athletics Director, and Nick Williams, Associate Athletics Director. The three each had lunch with a table of six students from the academy.
"We have a strong partnership with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and try to get involved in as many of these types of programs with the tribal youth as possible," said Williams. "It was a lot of fun and the kids were genuinely excited to be there."
CMU Athletics and the tribe have a continuing partnership recognized nationally by the NCAA.
CMU athletic teams continue their relationship with the tribe by sponsoring clinics for tribal youth, and having CMU student-athletes regularly visit elementary classrooms at the academy.
The Chippewas are also a partner with the Anishnabe Athletic Youth Association, and CMU student-athletes and coaches participate in the annual AAYA banquet, which recognizes tribal youth for their involvement in recreational activities.