GCU committed to a partnership with the Native American Basketball Invitational (NABI) for 2010. The organization uses sports to encourage Native American youth to further their education with college mentor programs and scholarship opportunities.
“With our focused Native American outreach, our rejuvenated men’s basketball program and our successful women’s program, this partnership is ideal in helping us broaden our relationships with the Native American communities and foster the growth of these talented athletes,” says GCU CEO Brian Mueller.
NABI is the only nationally recognized NCAA certified Native American basketball tournament. The next Invitational is July 6-10, 2010. It will feature 64-80 teams of male and female, Native American student athletes from throughout the U.S. and Canada.
NABI now operates under the newly formed NABI Foundation as a non-profit organization. In addition to its Invitational tournament, the organization will hold mini tournaments on reservation lands. The addition of a life skills curriculum will help the organization support student-athletes through high school and into college.
“Grand Canyon University Native American programs met the unique needs of our athletes,” says NABI Foundation CEO GinaMaria Scarpa. “Their programs go the extra mile to make sure our students get the support and guidance needed to accomplish their educational goals. We are very excited about what this partnership will bring our youth.”
For information about the NABI Foundation, tournaments, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities contact 480-446-7052 or visit the official website of NABI Foundation, www.NABIFoundation.org.
