BY SONYA IVANOFF & MARIA AMOR ANTINIERO
Wolfpack athletes closed out their NYO season recently with many standout moments to report. The athletes competed in the BSSD Native Youth Olympics regional event in Golovin on April 8 and 9, 2026. There were many Unalakleet medalists across the events, and senior Ourea Busk capped her final season with four golds, one bronze, and one silver, earning her the title of Most Outstanding Female Athlete.
Ourea went on to compete at the NYO Sr. Games in Anchorage in her four first-place events, including the Scissor Broad Jump, for which she broke the district record she had set two years ago, jumping a distance of 29’ 5 ¾”. At state, she placed 5th in Alaskan High Kick, 4th in One Hand Reach, and 3rd in Scissor Broad Jump with 29’ 1”.
Joining her at state was freshman Avery Johnson, who went on to compete in Wrist Carry and One-Arm Reach. While Avery wanted to participate in more events, she was limited due to her ankle healing.
Other highlights from NYO Regionals include Micheal “Gus” Katchatag placing second in Wrist Carry, with a distance of 128' 2". Furthermore, Judah Ivanoff placed fourth place in Toe Kick, and third in Inuit Stick Pull. On top of that, Franklyn Johnson placed fourth in Inuit Stick Pull.
Overall, athletes are out there to reach personal goals and experience a level of support that is unmatched in any other activity. NYO isn’t just a sport, it is a reminder of our culture. Each event requires strength, patience, and hard-work. It’s reassuring to see that each year more students participate, keeping the cultural values alive.