WINDOW ROCK — Navajo Nation President Nygren welcomed and honored the Page High School Lady Sand Devils during a special visit to the Office of the President and Vice President on Tuesday, April 21, recognizing their 2026 Arizona 3A State Championship season and the resilience behind their title run.
The Lady Sand Devils captured the championship in February with a thrilling 32–30 victory over the Window Rock Lady Scouts at a packed Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum.
Trece Tsingine was named the MVP for the championship game helping lead the team to its second state title in three years. The team finished the season 17–14 overall and 6–5 in the 3A North Region.
The roster brought together student-athletes from communities across the Navajo Nation, including Shonto, Kaibeto, LeChee, Bodaway Gap, and Page, reflecting strong Navajo pride throughout the season. Their journey was defined by perseverance, as the team played much of the year in Page’s middle school gym due to issues with their high school floor, while also overcoming injuries and tough losses.
Senior Aubrey Dodson shared that a highlight of the season was being surprised with their newly completed gym just in time for the postseason.
During the visit, the team shared lunch with President Nygren, reflecting on their journey and the teamwork it took to reach their goal. Head Coach Celeste Claw praised the group’s determination and chemistry, noting their ability to stay focused through adversity.
The Lady Sand Devils will graduate five seniors this year. Several shared their next steps, including Aubrey Dodson, who will continue her basketball career at South Mountain Community College, and Tayla Franklin, who will play at Yavapai Community College. Issianna Brown plans to attend college while also serving in the Air Force Reserves.
President Nygren congratulated the team and shared words of encouragement for their future.
“You faced challenges all season, but you stayed together and believed in each other,” said President Nygren. “That resilience is what made you champions, and it will carry you far.”
Also in attendance was Miss Navajo Nation Camille Uentillie, who encouraged the team to continue striving for success and giving back to their communities.
The entire team roster includes Tayla Franklin, Jade Sombrero, Arianna Yazzie, Aubrey Dodson, Issianna Brown, Savannah Franklin, Sarah Dodson, Kamerann Tsosie, Makyra Williams, Trece Tsingine, Peyton Willie, Maya Cambridge, Mackenzie Bedonie, and Teairra Tadytin.
The coaching staff includes Head Coach Celeste Claw, Assistant Coaches Bill Tresh, Sunni Crank, and Torrance Begay.
The Navajo Nation proudly recognizes the Page Lady Sand Devils for their championship season and for representing their communities with strength, pride, and heart.
