One evening at the Rec Center, Bryan, St. Joseph’s Indian School’s Athletic Director, found himself short a basketball referee. The game was about to begin, and he needed someone dependable who could step in quickly. Kansas, a senior student at St. Joseph’s who had helped Bryan earlier in the year with the youth football team, didn’t hesitate.
“After talking with Kansas, he stepped up and helped officiate one of our games,” said Bryan. “He did a nice job that evening.”
That moment captured the kind of presence Kansas has brought to the Rec Center — calm, confident and ready to serve.
Kansas has been part of St. Joseph’s Indian School since the third grade. This fall, he chose to spend his evenings working at the Rec Center, a decision he says was motivated by “personal fulfillment and the kids being happy and having fun.”
For Kansas, the role has been more than just a job. It’s been a chance to give back to younger students while staying connected to the sports that have shaped him.
His afternoon and evening work at the Rec Center follows a steady rhythm.
“I clock in around 4 p.m., talk about the day, then help keep an eye on the younger kids in wrestling until about 5 p.m., and then go help the girls’ basketball team until 6:30 p.m.,” he explained. “Then I’m done for the day.”
Kansas admits coaching and refereeing came naturally because of his lifelong passion for athletics. However, the experience has also changed how he sees himself. Showing up, working hard and helping others improve carried over into his own basketball season.
“It makes me a better teammate and leader,” said Kansas. “I’m able to coach and give advice on certain things the kids may have a question on.”
Bryan saw Kansas’s potential early on.
“I was excited to have Kansas join our Rec Center team this past fall,” Bryan said. “This past summer, he worked at our summer day camp, so I knew he could be a nice fit working with our programs and kids.”
Kansas’s role quickly expanded from helping with the youth football team to coaching girls basketball. Dependability has been one of Kansas’s strongest traits.
“When we have Kansas lined up to work — he shows up,” Bryan said. “He is always on time and ready to get to work. If something pops up unexpectedly and he can’t make work, he is quick to communicate that.”
That presence has translated into mentorship. Kansas doesn’t come in loud and demanding. He is patient and has a calming presence when working with the students. His demeanor has also made him a favorite among younger athletes.
“I remember one day Kansas couldn’t make a practice due to some other senior obligations, and the first thing out of all the kids’ mouths was ‘Where’s Kansas at?’” said Bryan. “They look forward to seeing him at practice and games.”
Bryan has watched Kansas grow in ways that go beyond the basics of the job. It may have started as a way to earn hours, but it turned into something far more meaningful. Working at the Rec Center has allowed Kansas to experience the responsibilities of coaching from the other side. In the process, he’s gained confidence and taken true ownership of the programs.
Kansas’s senior basketball season is about to begin, and while the Rec Center will miss his daily presence, Bryan knows the impact will continue.
“We will lose him when his season starts, but he will definitely have a lot more fans cheering him on,” Bryan said.
Kansas’s story is a testament to the mission of St. Joseph’s Indian School — helping students grow into leaders who give back to their community. Donor support makes opportunities like Kansas’s possible, where a young man not only prepares for his own future but also invests in the lives of younger students. Through his calm leadership, steady presence and passion for sports, Kansas embodies the values of St. Joseph’s and his Lakota culture. His journey reminds us that when donors support the school, they are helping students like Kansas discover their gifts, build confidence and inspire the next generation.
Philámayaye — thank you — for your support of the Lakota (Sioux) children at St. Joseph’s Indian School. Your support makes these stories possible and ensures the next generation of leaders will carry forward the spirit of St. Joseph’s Indian School.
Learn more about St. Joseph’s by visiting stjo.org.
