History of Lacrosse

Native Americans inhabiting the Great Lakes region of North America, were the original players of Lacrosse (tewaraathon) over 1000 years ago, particularly the Iroquois or the Long House people as they became known. Spiritually, the game was played to give thanks to their Maker as it was called by the tribe's Shaman. He would also call the players to play for reasons of a spiritual or medical healing for one tribe member or for all members if needed. Playing lacrosse would also ready the young men for war since it was played so often in such a manner which was so defiant of fatigue. It became a good military practice or readiness in order to prepare the young players for war. However, the game was often played to settle territorial disputes instead of waging wars.

Lives benefitted as ideas and goods were exchanged for bets made and won.

Lacrosse was called to action by the Iroquois Shaman. Players were isolated and spiritually prepared with body oils. They were isolated from other members of the tribe. Players were make ready, as eagle claws were used to scratch their backs. Feathers were tied to their hair to increase speed and improve eyesight. After the game was completed, the lacrosse players were required to bathe in the nearby natural waters and cleanse themselves of the war effects.

The hickory lacrosse stick was somestimes decoratively carved with eagle claws. Carvings of dog heads were common as the animals were believed to be mediators between the human world and the spiritual world. Other designs involved hands clasping the ball which is forbidden during the game but yet, signified "hands clasps in war". The bottom portion of the lacrosse stick resembled t the lacrosee stick or "shaft"somestimes resembled that of a ceremonial drum stick or tribal war club. Bat wings were tied to the netting of the " head" of the shaft to give the player "radar" accuracy. The original game ball was made out of the knot of a hickory tree trunk or from the skin of a deer.

today's

Betting was an important activity between the opposing tribes as spectators wagered valuable crafts, tools, food and weapons. Over periods of game bettings, the wealth within or among other tribes, became equally distribruted. Ideas and craft skills were shared and dispersed between opposing tribes.

Lacrosse or "little brother of war" as it became known,served the early Native Americans spiritually, medically, and militarially. Wealth and ideas were shared as it successfully prevented wars which otherwise would have cost lives.

It continues to be an awesome sport today, providing thrills and surprises to the spectators and players. We give thanks