To the Athletes, Coaches and Volunteers of NAIG Team BC,

I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) to congratulate all BC participants in the 2014 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG). This year's event showcased that we have an abundance of strong and motivated First Nations and Aboriginal athletes in this province. Each one of you contribute to a health and wellness story as role models for First Nation communities in BC. Your leadership will contribute to the healthy, self-determining and vibrant future that the FNHA envisions.

Congratulations on winning both the Overall Team Title and the John Fletcher Spirit Award, as well as the tremendous medal count. Your countless hours of training have paid off in the best way imaginable – and you have made history. Most importantly, congratulations on the effort and hard work you have put in throughout the year to make it to the games.

I was fortunate to attend the opening ceremonies and first few days of the 2014 NAIG and was greatly impressed by your team spirit and sportsmanship. I was in awe of our athletes' ability to adapt to changes and overcome obstacles. The FNHA is proud to be one of three organizations that make up the Aboriginal Sport, Recreation & Physical Activity Partners Council. Together with the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres and the Métis Nation BC we are proud supporters, and we are celebrating along with you!  

On behalf of the FNHA, thank you to all the athletes for your determination, perseverance and overall enthusiasm for fitness and sport. We also would like to thank Rick Brant and the Partners Council, along with all the coaches and volunteers, for being instrumental in clearing a path for Team BC athletes to show up, perform and place first overall.

Everyone involved in Team BC's success is a Wellness Champion. Every day you are influencing your family, community, and Nation to be Wellness Champions, and after NAIG 2014 your circle of influence has stretched even further. Congratulations on your tremendous success!

Lydia Hwitsum

Chair, Board of Directors

First Nations Health Authority

Download this letter in PDF form here. (PDF 84 KB)