NAITA Championships player Cole Dunbar celebrates Choctaw heritage through tennis

For Cole Dunbar, tennis offers the perfect combination of competition, challenge and personal growth. A proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Dunbar is building his tennis journey while embracing the heritage and community that are important parts of his identity.

This Native American Heritage Month — which takes place in November annually in the U.S. — USTA Oklahoma celebrates Dunbar and the pride he carries onto the court as a young Native American athlete.

Dunbar’s path to tennis began when he decided to try something new after playing baseball. Looking for a sport with a faster pace, he picked up a tennis racquet and discovered a passion for the game thanks to the programming at First Serve OKC.

“I quickly fell in love with how fast-paced and competitive the sport is,” Dunbar said. “I love that tennis constantly challenges me and keeps me on my toes.”

That competitive spirit has helped Dunbar pursue new opportunities and experiences in the sport. One of his proudest accomplishments came this past summer when he was selected to compete in the USTA Youth Tournament of Excellence at the Cincinnati Open.

With only 32 young athletes selected from across the country, the opportunity was a significant milestone in Dunbar’s tennis journey. He said the experience helped him grow as a player and gave him a memory he will always cherish.

Beyond the competition and accomplishments, tennis has also provided Dunbar with meaningful opportunities to connect with other Native American athletes and celebrate his heritage.

Each year, he participates in the North American Indian Tennis Association Championships, where juniors and adults from different tribal communities come together through their shared love of the sport.

The NAITA tournament allows Dunbar to build connections with other Native American players while celebrating the cultures and communities that make each athlete unique.

As a Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma member, Dunbar said his heritage is an important part of who he is.

“Native American Heritage Month is special to me because I’m proud to be part of the Choctaw Nation,” Dunbar said. “I love being able to represent my tribe and celebrate our heritage, traditions and culture.”