Dakotah Terrell takes immense pride in his heritage and the lessons passed down from his family. “I’m Choctaw and Cherokee. I take pride in my culture that I’ve learned from my mom and use that to show other Natives that you can succeed just like anyone else,” he said. As a standout athlete for Pocola High School, Terrell embraces his roots while striving to be a role model for younger athletes in his community.
Being part of the Choctaw Nation has shaped his mindset in powerful ways. “It’s helped me believe in myself and guided me to be a leader, not a follower,” he explained. That confidence has allowed him to push through challenges, stand tall in competition, and embrace the responsibility of setting an example for others.
For Terrell, the perception of Native culture in society has only strengthened his resolve. Every time he steps onto the court, he plays with something bigger than himself in mind—his family, his heritage, and the future generations watching him.
His success is not just built on athletic ability but also on discipline instilled in him at a young age. “My mom is huge on academics. She is as heavy on academics as she is on sports,” he said. “She always has a saying, ‘If you can’t make the grades, you can’t play the game,’ and I’ve carried that my whole life.”
As a proud Choctaw athlete, Terrell appreciates the recognition of Native culture, especially during Native American Heritage Month. “I like the fact that we have a month for us specifically in November,” he said. He sees it as a time to celebrate, educate, and inspire.
That sense of responsibility extends beyond his own success. “I definitely feel a sense of pride because I want younger students to acknowledge my journey and be a positive influence towards their community,” he said. He hopes to encourage others to chase their dreams while staying connected to their roots.
No matter where life takes him, Terrell will never forget where he comes from. “I’ll never forget where I’ve come from, and it’s given me a sense of strength that will stick with me as far as I go,” he said.
That strength will be vital as he moves on to the next chapter of his life. “I’m going to a place where I don’t know if thereare a lot of Natives, so I’m going to take what I’ve been taught by my mom and try to represent the Choctaw Nation,” he said. Terrell will continue his education and athletic career in Missouri, playing football on scholarship while majoring in education.
