About Spirit Lake Youth Sports

Spirit Lake Youth Sports (SLYS) operates in Partnership with the Spirit Lake Nation Tribe.

SLYS exists to provide athletic opportunities, we value education in conjunction with cultural, physical, mental, and spiritual development.

SLYS aims to furnish youth and our communities with occasions to build self esteem, respect, acceptance, and sportsmanship through fun and positive activities while developing athletic skill and forming friendships guided by appropriate role models in a sound, structured program that is non-profit, volunteer-oriented, and open to all tribal youth.

SLYS is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, individual and business donations are tax deductible. We are also eligible for public and private grant awards.

Read the Story of How SLYS Was Created

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Our Story

In the spring of 2021, a discussion between Justin Yankton and Dean Dauphinais Jr. uncovered that there was minimal recreation or sports related activities being planned for the children of Spirit Lake Nation. They immediately began discussing youth activities and set out to help organize what became the Spirit Lake Youth Baseball (SLYB) program, and now in conjunction with tribal leadership, Spirit Lake Youth Sports (SLYS).

Mission Statement

It is the mission of SLYS to provide safe, structured athletic programs and activities while providing necessary resources and developing a strong foundation in culture, leadership and wellness.

Vision

SLYS envisions the unification of our native communities to be involved in quality organized events and enrichment programs while ensuring participants have the necessary resources and facilities.

Values

Native American Culture, having fun, positive attitudes, leadership, self-improvement, personal growth and healthy lifestyles.

Board Members

Spirit Lake Youth Sports is governed by a Board of Directors, composed of a diverse group of individuals committed to youth interests in Tribal communities. Board representatives include educators, youth program coordinators, recreation professionals, and other dedicated community members. Most of the board members are employed by tribes or tribal consortiums and have many duties apart from their roles in SLYS. The board consists of up to two appointed representatives from each participating district.