On November 1st, before dawn broke over Pine Ridge, a bus filled with 17 excited middle schoolers from Maȟpíya Lúta Owáyawa departed campus at 4 a.m. Their destination, the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, where they would perform the Flag Song before the Coyotes’ Division I football game against the University of North Dakota.
The Maȟpíya Lúta Middle School singers included Gia, Mia, Kimimela, Wicahpi, Gracie, Georgianna, Harper, Ske Luta, Robert, Ernest, Alee, Blake, Antoine, Tasunke, Bear, Diyari, and Logan.
The students made their first stop in Winner for breakfast at McDonald’s before continuing their journey east. Upon arrival in Vermillion, they were warmly welcomed by hosts John Little, Director of Native Recruitment & Alumni Engagement, and Meagan Red Shirt-Shaw, Director of USD Native Services.
Inside the stadium, the group was provided a beautiful conference room to prepare. Teachers Kyleigh Blacksmith and Lane Pourier had the students’ skirts and shirts neatly pressed and ready, while George Tsouhlarakis, and Sierra Her Many Horses helped the students get ready for the big performance.
As the time approached, Meagan and John escorted the singers down to the field. Surrounded by the roar of a Division I crowd, the Maȟpíya Lúta singers delivered a powerful and moving rendition of the Flag Song that brought many in attendance, including USD staff members, to tears. The performance was made even more special by the presence of Jerome Kills Small, who graduated from USD in 1994 before serving as the Lakota language instructor for 21 years, joined the drum group, adding strength and blessing to the moment.
Afterward, the students were invited by Jim Warne, former NFL player and current Maȟpíya Lúta board member, to help energize the crowd with the Coyote howl. They then enjoyed an exciting game that saw USD pull off a thrilling upset victory over the 10th-ranked University of North Dakota.
Before heading home, the group stopped at Pizza Ranch in Yankton for supper, sharing laughs and memories from a day they will never forget.
It was a truly beautiful day for the Maȟpíya Lúta Middle School singers, one filled with pride, unity, and song. We extend heartfelt gratitude to Meagan Red Shirt-Shaw, John Little, and the University of South Dakota for the warm welcome and this incredible opportunity. A special thank you also goes to Amanda Carlow, Director of the Lakota Language Resource Othí, who safely drove the bus and helped care for the students throughout the trip.
Our students represented themselves, their families, and our school with excellence on a national stage.