The NTVS has launched a new collection featuring hats, sweatshirts, tees, tanks, and socks with the names and numbers of Native Olympians. Prices range from $20 to $100, with designs that pay tribute to athletes like Billy Mills and Louis Tewanima. The unisex tank, for example, features Mills’s original running number 222, while the “Tewanima” tee showcases an image of the athlete running in the 1912 Olympics, where he won the silver medal and was designed in collaboration with Hopi artist Duane Koyawena.
Not only does this collection celebrate Native excellence in sports, but it also has a charitable component. A portion of all proceeds will be donated to the Thorpe family and the Billy Mills Running Strong Foundation, which helps Indigenous youth achieve their goals and dreams. The collection aims to honor the achievements of Native athletes and support their community through giving back. Designer Silva expresses his enjoyment in sharing Native history and stories through fashion design, finding fulfillment in championing Native excellence.
The collaboration between The NTVS and Native Olympians brings attention to the often overlooked contributions of Indigenous athletes in sports history. By featuring the names and numbers of these athletes on clothing items, the collection serves as a reminder of their achievements and the impact they have made. The designs pay tribute to athletes like Billy Mills and Louis Tewanima, helping to preserve their legacies and inspire future generations.
The collection not only celebrates the accomplishments of Native Olympians but also aims to support the community through charitable donations. By giving back to organizations like the Billy Mills Running Strong Foundation, the collection helps Indigenous youth achieve their goals and dreams. The charitable component of the collection aligns with the original intent of championing Native excellence and sharing their stories through fashion design.
The NTVS collection offers a unique way to honor the history and achievements of Native Olympians through fashion. The designs showcase the names and numbers of athletes like Billy Mills and Louis Tewanima, allowing wearers to display their support and appreciation for these athletes. By partnering with the Thorpe family and organizations like the Billy Mills Running Strong Foundation, the collection also gives back to the community and supports Indigenous youth in pursuing their goals.
Overall, The NTVS collection serves as a meaningful tribute to Native Olympians and their contributions to sports history. Through its designs and charitable component, the collection celebrates Native excellence, raises awareness of Indigenous athletes, and supports the community. By sharing these stories through fashion design, The NTVS continues to honor the legacies of athletes like Billy Mills and Louis Tewanima while inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
