Maȟpíya Lúta returned to the Lakota Nation Invitational skateboarding competition this year for the second time, and did so with a historic twist, an all-girls squad.
The team was made up of Kylee Martin, Michayla White Eyes, and a last-minute addition, third grader Nani. With scheduling challenges limiting formal practice time, preparation looked different this year. Despite that, Kylee and Michayla remained committed, finding ways to stay consistent and ready.
This season marked a near reset for the program. Michayla White Eyes was the only returning skater from last year’s team, with the rest having graduated. She embraced the leadership role fully, putting in extensive work both during practices and on her own time. Michayla also helped keep the team organized and on track, ensuring everything was in place for Maȟpíya Lúta to compete again at LNI.
That dedication paid off in a big way. Kylee Martin earned 1st place for Best Girls Trick, while Michayla White Eyes captured 2nd place for Best Girls Overall Run, an event where skaters are given one minute to skate freely and showcase as many tricks as possible. Youngest team member Nani made an immediate impact as well, finishing 3rd place for Best Girls Trick in her LNI debut.
This year’s competition also introduced separate team awards for girls and boys divisions. Maȟpíya Lúta’s all-girls squad finished 2nd place for Best Girls Team Overall.
Kyle Mesteth from Ground Control Skate Park expressed excitement about Maȟpíya Lúta’s presence, noting that the team was the only all-girls squad at the event. Their participation brought a noticeable spark and positive energy to the competition, highlighting both the growth of girls’ skateboarding and the continued expansion of Maȟpíya Lúta’s skate program.