Sooners' Sandite proud of heritage
Published: 8/23/2008 6:30 AM
Last Modified: 8/23/2008 6:30 AM
The deep snapper of a college football team typically gets press only when he fires one over the head of his punter. But then, Sand Springs' Derek Shaw is not your typical deep snapper.
For proof, here's an excerpt from a story written about the OU walk-on in the Osage News:
"Shaw is also culturally involved with his Osage heritage. Since the age of 3, he has danced in the tribe's traditional In-Lon-Schka dances each June. He has served as a water boy and is a member of the Grayhorse In-Lon-Schka Dance Committee.
"Shaw was honored last month by the Osage Nation Congress for being a positive role model for all youth and the Osage people. The honoring took place during the Osage Nation congressional Hun-Kah session. Congressman Anthony Shackelford read a citation of Shaw's accomplishments before Congress, members of the public and Shaw's family. Shaw received a standing ovation.
"'The thing about Derek is, he's got a lot of good qualities and attributes,' Shackelford said. 'Because he is Native American, it gives everyone a sense of pride...
"'In the summertime he doesn't forget where he came from and he's back here for the [In-Lon-Schka] dances,' Shackelford said. 'He exhibits all that is best in Native Americans. He's got his culture and his education, and he's close to his parents and I think everyone should be proud of him as well as his tribe. He comes across as a very genuine and sincere young man.'
"Asked if he ever thought he would be honored by his Osage tribal congress, Shaw just shook his head and looked down at the floor.
"'No, I never thought this would happen. I mean, it feels good . . . They said I was a positive role model and I never thought I'd be a positive role model for kids,' Shaw said. 'It means a lot to me.'"
-- Guerin Emig
Written by
Guerin Emig
Sports Writer
