Sports Chat: Derek Rope
- Mike Gosselin | February 26, 2014
Name: Derek Rope
Sports Played: Track and Field
First Nation: Pasqua First Nation
Hometown: Saskatoon
Current Position: NAIG Coordinator Athletics Team Saskatchewan; Meet Director, Aboriginal Indoor Track & Field Championships
Nickname: Rope/Roper
GOZ: Why is it important it is for aboriginal youth to be involved in sport?
ROPER: Whatever the sport, whatever the level, whatever the age, I believe participation in sport is vital to the healthy development of our First Nation and Métis youth. To me, the team building, discipline and pride that come with being involved in sport is invaluable and positively influences education outcomes, healthy lifestyle choices and mentorship.
GOZ: Have events like the North American Indigenous Games created more opportunities for Aboriginal athletes?
ROPER: Absolutely. We see now more than ever First Nations and Métis athletes competing at the provincial through to the international stage.
GOZ: How does it feel to have NAIG 2014 in Saskatchewan?
ROPER: There is nothing like competing and winning in front of a "hometown" crowd! I am sure these games will be the biggest and best yet!
GOZ: I've always wondered if there are any friendly rivalries that have developed over the years at NAIG...
ROPER: I can't speak for other events; however, if I had to choose a friendly rivalry in Athletics, I would have to say Manitoba but it's all in the spirit of sportsmanship. I think that Team Sask has a friendly rivalry with every province or state team competing. Six of seven titles is quite the record and I am sure there will be teams gunning to take home a championship.
GOZ: Every successful youth has a mentor or hero. Who was yours? Why were they so important in your development/success?
ROPER: Growing up I was always supported and guided in the things I wanted to pursue by my parents, they are my heroes. I was always reminded to be proud of who I was as a First Nations person and that the limits we have are the limits we put on ourselves. We didn't have a lot of money to say the least but I can always remember my mom saying "come hell or high water..." when it meant getting my brothers and I to a game, a track meet or performance. I was lucky: I had everyday heroes and mentors.
GOZ: Coaching, working, playing music, volunteering -- how do you find time to stay balanced?
ROPER: Well, I really enjoy the things I am involved in and am fortunate to be surrounded by great people to share them with. They are all a part of who I am.
GOZ: Favorite Sports Movie all-time?
ROPER: Running Brave: The Billy Mills story. My brother Kelly and I must have worn out three videos of that movie watching it before every race or when we needed some running inspiration before a workout.
GOZ: Favorite Sporting Moment?
ROPER: I would have to say being the Rookie of the Year for Huskies Track and Field when I ran for U of S; however, a close second is Eugene Arcand introducing my brother and I to Billy Mills when competing at NAIG in Prince Albert. I just stood there star struck not saying anything, just shaking his hand...
GOZ: With regard to sports, you've secretly always wanted to be a...
ROPER: Volleyball player but unfortunately I jump like a rock and have hands like two frying pans, but I sure do love playing the game.