Native American football enjoying a rebirth in South Dakota

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – Native American football is enjoying a rebirth in South Dakota thanks to a new league formed by smaller schools this fall.

The first All Nations Football Conference championship on Friday is giving players a chance to realize their dream of claiming a big victory at “the Dome” where championship games are decided in South Dakota.

Some schools say their teams have grown by as much as two-thirds since the conference gave them a more competitive environment. Two schools are fielding teams for the first time.

Supporters say the teams are giving students a reason to stay in school and out of trouble, while giving communities a reason to come together.