Shiyazh Pete went on from Shiprock High to play college football at New Mexico State University and the University of Kentucky before signing and training with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent. He returned to Shiprock High School to share what he learned along the way and to encourage Chieftain students and athletes as they begin a new season.
From Central Consolidated Schools:
Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Shiprock High School kicked off the fall sports season with 2021 SHS graduate Shiyazh Pete, returning to address students and student-athletes at a school pep rally.
Pete went on from Shiprock High to play college football at New Mexico State University and the University of Kentucky before signing and training with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent. He returned to Shiprock High School to share what he learned along the way and to encourage Chieftain students and athletes as they begin a new season.
"I surrounded myself with people who had great perseverance — people who just kept showing up and put in the work, even when they were tired. That’s the one thing that really stands out," said Pete.
Pete told the crowd that showing up is half the battle, and that resilience will carry students well beyond their playing days.
"The fact that you guys showed up today is half the battle," Pete said. "Life is hard. It will throw you a lot of curveballs — some days you’re flying high, and the next you’re shot down. It’s whether you keep going, keep climbing, keep moving forward!"
Speaking directly to the football team ahead of its season opener, Pete offered a message about purpose and brotherhood.
"The greatest warriors didn’t go to battle because they hated what was in front of them," Pete said. "They went to battle because they loved what was behind them. Play the game well. Play for each other. Play for your brothers."
Pete closed his remarks by thanking Shiprock High staff and students before leaving them with a final wish: "Make your lives beautiful."
Chieftains fans can catch the action this week as fall sports get underway.
• Football hosts its first game at home against Crownpoint on Thursday, Sept. 3, at 7 p.m.
• Volleyball travels to the Farmington Volleyball Invite on Friday, Sept. 4, beginning at 10 a.m., and;
• Cross country competes at the Rehoboth Invite on Friday, Sept. 4, at 3 p.m.
Gov. to Visit Flood-Stricken San Juan County
National Guard, State Police carry out rescues as historic flooding hits San Juan County
Bloomfield: Wastewater Emergency
Kirtland Students on Remote Learning thru Thursday
*UPDATE* Boil Water Advisory Lifted for Lower Valley Water Users
Woman's Husband Arrested for Kirtland Killing
