Keilan Thompson, a 17-year-old from Airdrie, made history as the only Canadian player invited to the prestigious Indigenous Bowl, held at the Saboba Indian Reservation in California.
He was also named one of the top 50 Indigenous football players, a significant achievement on its own.
The Indigenous Bowl, which took place from Dec. 18-22, brought together talented athletes to celebrate both sports and Indigenous culture.
Thompson shared, “it turned out to be a great experience, and I’m really glad I was invited.”
He admitted that at first, he didn’t fully understand the opportunity’s importance.
“At first, I didn’t know how to feel about it because I didn’t realize what it meant to me and what [the opportunity] would do for me," Thompson said. "Though it felt good once I watched all the videos about it.”
One of the key lessons Thompson took away from the event was mindfulness. He was intrigued by how the coaches helped the players grow not just as athletes, but as people.
He said, “it helped us build character, become more disciplined, and respect everyone around us.”
Thompson also noticed a difference in the way the game was played in the U.S. compared to Canada. In Canada, there are 12 players on the field, but in the U.S., there are 11.
“I had more room to make plays and stand out," he explained. "The field felt smaller, and with fewer people, I could really shine. I think I played my position well.”
Thompson plays safety for the Bert Church Chargers, a position that requires him to protect the defense’s last line.
"It’s a big responsibility to make sure nothing gets past you," he stated. "I feel I did really well on that and I also did great on going downhill and making tackles in the run.”
Although his team lost 26-20, Thompson reflected on the strong start.
“I did really well at the start of the game.”
The Indigenous Bowl featured guest speakers, including former NFL players, who shared lessons on mindfulness and character development.
"The guest speakers taught us a lot about being good people and players," Thompson shared. "I learned a lot, and I’m sure everyone did.”
His father, Jeremy Thompson, filled out the application for his son. Keilan was grateful for the support, saying, “I’m really glad he did that for me, but I never thought I’d be selected.”
Being invited to the Indigenous Bowl held special cultural significance for Thompson.
As a member of the Okanagan Nation, the event allowed him to connect with his roots. He enjoys spending time at Okanagan Lake, his second home.
"My band sent a letter to congratulate me and wish me good luck," he said. "It meant a lot to me.”
Thompson is motivated to keep pushing forward in his sports career by the support of his family.
“My family keeps me going; I do it for them,” he stated.
And sports do run deep in the Thompson family. He takes inspiration from his family and their success, hoping he can one day become as great as them.
"My uncle played in the NHL for the Flames," explained Thompson. "I learned a lot from him. My dad played minor hockey, and my brother plays for the VI Raiders in the CJFL. I look up to my brother a lot, and I want to be as successful as he is.”
Keilan Thompson’s invitation to the Indigenous Bowl highlights his exceptional football skills and marks an important milestone in his athletic journey. To his community, he would like to share that many opportunities lie for Indigenous athletes.
“There’s unlimited opportunities for playing sports if you’re Indigenous. You may not know it [but] you really have to look into it and sign up for things.”
