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Culture


The cultural traditions and history of the tribal communities served by ITS truly define them. While organized sports is and will continue to be the foundation of Inter Tribal Sports, we also recognize the importance of offering programs that promote, teach, and preserve the culture of the people. ITS is always seeking out new and innovative ways to authentically and respectfully implement cultural aspects into our programs and service by reaching out to instructors and supporters of such programs.

 In 2010, ITS introduced its first cultural programming by offering two youth cultural gatherings. The gatherings are now a regular occurrence twice each year, held in the spring and fall. Local artisans and instructors have taught youth to create gourd rattles and bowls, bows and rabbit sticks, pottery, baskets, and play the traditional game of shinny. Bird singers and drummers provide a meaningful and beautiful soundtrack for the gatherings. To date, cultural gatherings have been hosted by Los Coyotes, La Jolla, Pala, Rincon, Sycuan, Barona, and Santa Ysabel. All tribes are of course invited to these events.


In 2016, ITS has also incorporated an opening prayer and words from our elders for all opening days and championship days. This allows our youth to hear songs and stores from their elders as well as set the tone for the rest of the day.

In 2018, ITS had their 1st Native Arts Gathering at the San Pasqual Education Department. Our facilitator for this event was Armando Martinez, San Pasqual's long time ITS board member, who led a group of staff in helping our youth create and play fun filled activities. There were stations to play shinny, create their very own baskets, and decorate gourds into beautiful cactus planters or rattles. For lunch, Louise Tompkins, otherwise known as the Lemonade Lady, created a fantastic indigenous meal which included chuck roast, cactus salad, corn, bread, fruit, pumpkin cookies and much more. Louise also created two infused waters: blackberry and watermelon lemon. 

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