Norah Cross makes the cut for NIFA

When Norah found out about the tryouts for the National Indigenous Football Association (NIFA) soccer team, she was at work. No training, no cleats in hand, just a last-minute text from her coach letting her know there was a tryout.

“I found out last minute, so I took the day off and went to the tryouts,” Norah said. “I didn’t even prepare, I just went for it.”

That leap of faith paid off. With no warm-up, and no game plan, Norah showed up and gave it her all. Now, she’s one of a select few athletes from Kahnawake chosen to represent Team NIFA on an international stage. She’s heading to the Dominican Republic next August to compete. For her, the opportunity is more than a sports achievement; it’s a personal milestone.

“I’ve been playing soccer since I was little, and it’s one of my top priorities,” Cross said. “Making the team feels like a really big accomplishment.”

Her love for the game began early. According to her mother, Amy-Leigh Patton, she was passionate from the start.

“She’s loved soccer since she first tried it at eight years old,” Patton said. “I’ve watched her go from a little girl who always worked on her footwork to this young woman who’s always striving to improve, get faster, and inspire her little sisters.”

For Cross, soccer is more than just competition, it’s also healing.

“Soccer has healed Norah in so many ways since losing her dad,” said Patton. “Her father always pushed and gave her the tools to do what she needed to do. I strongly believe she goes out and plays for him every time. He’s her inspiration.”

Norah expressed a similar sentiment when reflecting on her father’s influence.

“My dad was one of my biggest supporters. He always pushed me to be really good, and he always wanted me to succeed in the sport,” she said. “Now, I play for him and for myself.”

That connection gives her clarity and purpose every time she steps onto the field.

“When I’m playing, my mind is clear,” said Cross. “I’m not thinking about things I don’t need to worry about. It’s where I feel most like myself.”

Her dedication to the sport hasn’t gone unnoticed by those closest to her.

“I felt incredibly proud of her. She always works so hard and puts her whole heart into what she does,” said Patton.

Her coaches have also been a major support in her journey, encouraging her to step outside her comfort zone and believe in her abilities and soccer skills.

Now, as she prepares to travel to the Dominican Republic, Cross is excited about more than just the game.

“I’m looking forward to making friends, seeing how different teams play soccer, and having fun along the journey,” she says.

Her mom is proud to be cheering her on and plans to be in the stands when she takes the field.

“It means a trip to the Dominican Republic, where I’ll get to see her in action doing what she loves most,” she said. “I hope she learns that the world is huge and so full of opportunities. That our dreams shouldn’t end at the boundaries of Kahnawake. I hope she meets people from all over who will inspire her and motivate her to keep pushing for the things she wants the most.”

Cross hopes to inspire others to follow their passions and dreams.

“Take your time. Don’t let others ruin how you see the sport or how you play, not even coaches,” she said. “Support the things you love. Do what you love for the people you love.”

With her goals set high and cleats on the ground, Norah Cross is ready to kick off her international journey with NIFA in the Dominican Republic next August.

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