The NYO Games represent a cornerstone of Alaska Native cultural heritage, showcasing traditional athletic prowess alongside the values of sportsmanship, community, and resilience. As these games continue to inspire and unite participants and spectators alike, there emerges a compelling vision: to bring the spirit and traditions of the NYO Games into collegiate arenas across the nation. This vision is not just about competition; it's about creating a legacy and cultivating leadership that will carry the games forward for generations to come.

In support of this vision, we are proud to introduce the “Continuing Education for Native Games.” This initiative aims to provide financial support to dedicated NYO athletes who are advancing their education in college or vocational schools while actively working to promote and sustain the NYO Games. Whether through establishing NYO clubs, volunteering at events, or integrating the NYO Games into their academic endeavors, these individuals play a pivotal role in ensuring the continued growth and relevance of NYO Games.

Winners will be chosen by the NYO Education Scholarship Committee and announced on Friday, April 17th, during the Senior NYO Games Celebration of Graduates and on the NYO Games Alaska Facebook page. Applicants do not need to be present at the Senior NYO Games, April 16-18th, to win.

Deadline: Friday, April 1st, 2026

Eligibility

• Must be an Alaska resident.
• Enrollment: Applicant must be enrolled into a college or vocational program.
• NYO Involvement: Proven participation in the NYO Games and active efforts to promote the Games (e.g., through club participation, volunteering, or academic projects related to NYO). Paid activities where you are involved in the Games will also be considered.
• Academic Achievement: Applicant must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

Scholarship Details:

• Award Amount: $500.00 to $1,500.00
• Use of Funds: Funds are allocated for educational purposes, specifically to cover expenses related to attending vocational schools or colleges. This includes tuition fees and other related costs essential for one’s academic journey.

Please be advised that incomplete submissions will negatively impact your evaluation scores. We encourage you to ensure all required materials are submitted by the deadline for thorough assessment.

 

How Applicants will be Scored 

1. Native Games Involvement & Culture Engagement (0 to 35 pts)

1. Active participation in Native games (20 points): evidance of direct participation in the NYO games as a competitor, organizer, or volutneer. 
2. Volunteer or promotion efforts (10 points): Demonstrable actions to          promote Native Games such as establishing Native games clubs, volunteering at events, or integrating the Native Games into academic projects. Reflects a higher level of responsibility and committment. 
3. Paid Involvement in Native Games Activity (5 points)

2. Academic Achievement (0 to 20 Points) 

1. GPA 2.0-2.99 (10 points) 
2. GPA 3.0- 3.49 (5 points)
3. GPA 3.5 and above (20 points) 

3. Written Statment of "Keeping the Spirit of the Games Alive through your daily activites." 

1. Clarity (10 points)
2. Relevance (10 points)
3. Provide examples of how you incoporate traditional values within your daily life. (10 points) 

4. Statment of Financial Need (Optional)  

Optional Creative Submission: Although not required students have the ability to submit creative content that will support their scholarship application.