Native Americans and Lacrosse
The game of lacrosse has evolved since the Europeans first witnessed the sport in the 1630s. Lacrosse is one of the main NCAA division one sports in the United States. Along with Division I, there is also Division II and Division III. There are two main professional leagues and one professional indoor league. The presence of Native American people is very prominent in all forms of the game. This shows the roots that Native Americans' ancestors laid down carried on through generations. Many of the best players in the college and professional game are Native Americans. Players like, Lyle Thompson, brother Miles, and Tehoka Nanticoke are a few examples of some of the best lacrosse players in the country. The Thompsons were born in the Onondaga reservation south of Syracuse, New York. Tehoka Nanticoke was born in the Six Nations reservation in Ontario. Lacrosse is the most popular sport among Native people, in 1860 Canada had adopted lacrosse as their national sport. Their presence is more prominent than other American sports like football. Professional leagues are now embracing the Native American culture that the game was founded on. Lyle, Miles and Tehoka have paved the way for younger generations of Native Americans to be successful at the highest level of the sport that their ancestors created. It is important for people to acknowledge the history of the game and know its Native American roots and origin. Paying respects to those who created the game is necessary. Native American lacrosse players should be recognized as manifestations of the resilience of Native American cultures and peoples.