Kainai Roots, Kodiaks Journey

Zachary Many Grey Horses (English)

Blood Tribe, Kainai First Nation

First year, General Arts and Science, Chinook High School

Zachary Many Grey Horses (English) was born and raised in Lethbridge, but the Blood Tribe culture remains a large part of his life.

"The Blackfoot culture is a big part of me, even though I was born and raised in Lethbridge," said Many Grey Horses. "Being Blackfoot has helped me a lot because there's not a lot of hoopers who get to play post-secondary, so it makes you want to work harder and keep on playing as long as you can."

Many Grey Horses played basketball in Lethbridge, but his first exposure to the game came on the Blood Reserve where he played spring club ball. He then took up the game seriously in high school.

"I didn't have a Grade 9 year because of Covid and in Grade 10 I tried out and made the senior varsity team, but I didn't get much playing time," said Many Grey Horses. "Halfway through the season I asked my coaches if I could do both, play JV and senior, so I could get more playing time."

While he was a key contributor at Chinook, the team struggled at times and Many Grey Horses didn't receive any post-secondary offers.

"My coach, Billy Martin, talked to coach (Ryan) Heggie about me and he told me I should come here and try out and see how it goes," said Many Grey Horses. "I tried out and redshirted last year."

"Last year was kind of rough because the only person I knew was Hayden (Many Grey Horses) and it took me a while to get close to the guys, but this year is way better.

"Other players like Rhett (Lewis, third year, General Arts and Science, Cardston) have made me realize I fit in."

Many Grey Horses, a six-foot-three guard, is getting playing time in his first season with the Kodiaks, playing in 13 of the team's 15 games and starting twice.

"Playing post-secondary is definitely more competitive," said Many Grey Horses. "You've just got to work way harder than you did before. With Heggie, you can't miss a practice or miss any games and you have to give 100 per cent every time."

Many Grey Horses said his strengths include being a supportive teammate, never looking down on anyone.

"I can shoot the ball and I like to drive a lot."

The future remains a work in progress for Many Grey Horses.

"I'm not 100 per cent sure, that's why I'm taking General Arts and Science," said English. "Hopefully I'll figure something out soon, but I am kind of looking into the business program."