An in-depth survey finds the North American Indigenous Games held in Regina last year have produced positive and and profound social impacts on the 4,000 young athletes who participated.
Highlights include increased self-worth, a greater desire to pursue post-secondary education and healthier lifestyle choices, including diet and exercise.
The survey involved nearly 600 participants and is considered about 95 per cent accurate. Nearly 90 per cent of those surveyed felt the experience gave them more confidence, more pride in being Aboriginal and more influence in their home communities.
More than 70 per cent indicated they planned to go to university.
Results of the survey were released today.