18-year-old, Theron Morningstar, co-founder of the Indigenous Athletic Development Circle (IADC), is working to help Indigenous youth reach their full potential through sports, culture, and leadership.
Morningstar, who plays as a goaltender for the Strathroy Rockets, said he was inspired by his own experiences growing up and seeing young athletes struggle to access sports programs.
The organization tailors programs to meet the needs of each community.
Programs at IADC are designed to support the whole athlete, body, mind, and spirit. This includes athletic training, academic mentorship, and cultural support. Athletes can take part in skill-specific camps with expert coaches, strength and conditioning programs, and nutrition guidance. They are also offered tutoring, help with balancing school and sports, and tools to build confidence in the classroom. Cultural teachings are also central to IADC, with lessons rooted in Indigenous knowledge and traditions, language support in Cree, Mohawk, Ojibwe and more, and leadership training through the Seven Grandfather Teachings.
IADC is hosting its first official camp on Thursday, October 16th, in London. Morningstar said the response has been overwhelming.
Registration is still open for the camp and can be completed by contacting Theron by email at T.Morningstar@iadc.ai or by calling 613-583-4622.
Morningstar said the organization plans to launch more projects soon and will share results from the camp later in the week.
Schools and organizations can get involved by visiting IADC’s website at iadc.ai and using the contact form, or by checking out IDAC on Facebook.
Written by: K. Milhomens