For siblings Michael and Bernadette Michaud, the Patriot Games were an opportunity to compete, make new friends, and represent Tlingit & Haida on a national stage.
The siblings learned about the Patriot Games after their mother saw information about the event on social media. She encouraged them to apply, and Bernadette described as a “once in a lifetime opportunity.” When they were selected, the two were visiting with their grandparents in Ketchikan. They were excited to participate and completed all of their training here.
Michael competed in the Presidential Qualifier, obstacle course, and Varsity Circuit, which included soccer, football, volleyball, tennis, and baseball skills. Bernadette competed in nearly every event, including the arm hang, 100-meter dash, hurdles, medicine ball throw, agility test, long jump, and the Varsity Circuit. She also excelled in the obstacle course, which was an event she had specifically trained for.
“We trained mostly for that one since it is the same thing we do outside in Alaska and at the parks,” Bernadette said.
Preparing for the Games meant putting their everyday surroundings to work. The siblings trained by swimming at the beach in Ketchikan, rolling logs, climbing trees with a rope, doing pull-ups and monkey bars, running, and participating in the Blueberry Festival Fun Run. Michael also focused on rope climbing, running, and bodyweight exercises.
For both siblings, however, the significance of the Patriot Games went beyond the competition. Representing their community and Tlingit & Haida was an experience they understood as both meaningful and unique.
“It means a lot,” Michael said. “We are a distinct sovereign entity and being recognized really shows the progress we’ve made.”
Bernadette was equally proud to represent her community. “I think it is a great opportunity to represent our community,” she said. “I have never seen this type of thing happen before and it may never happen again. I was excited to be picked.”
The Games also gave the siblings a chance to connect with other young people from across the United States, U.S. territories, military bases, and Tribal communities. For Bernadette, the friendships she made were one of the most memorable parts of the experience.
“Everyone was really supportive and fun to be around,” she said. “I feel like I made great friends. We stay in contact even now that the event is over.”
As they look ahead, both siblings are preparing for new chapters. Michael is looking forward to graduating high school, while Bernadette is excited to start high school, make new friends, and travel.
Their experience at the Patriot Games is also a reminder of the opportunities available to Tribal youth and the importance of being willing to pursue them.
“It is a cool experience,” Bernadette said.
Michael offered some advice to other Tribal youth and families: “Just take opportunity when you see it. There is so much and all you have to do is dig a little bit.”