Lacrosse is more than just a sport; it is a game with deep roots in Native American culture and history. Known as the "Medicine Game," lacrosse has been played for centuries as a way to bring people together, heal communities, and celebrate life. While the game has evolved into the fast-paced, competitive sport we know today, its origins still hold profound meaning.

At Big Walnut Lacrosse, we believe that understanding the history and spirit of lacrosse helps players connect with the game on a deeper level. Here’s why the Medicine Game matters and why kids should continue to play this incredible sport.

The Origins of Lacrosse

Lacrosse dates back hundreds of years to Indigenous communities across North America. It was originally played by tribes such as the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois), Cherokee, and Creek, who called it by names like baggataway and tewaaraton.

For Native Americans, lacrosse was more than a game:

• A ceremonial purpose: It was often played as part of spiritual rituals, offering thanks to the Creator and seeking blessings for the community.
• A tool for healing: Known as the Medicine Game, it was believed to bring physical, emotional, and spiritual healing to players and spectators alike.
• A way to unite communities: Lacrosse fostered connections within tribes and between neighboring communities, emphasizing harmony and mutual respect.

Games could last for days and involve hundreds of players, reflecting the importance of the sport in Indigenous culture.

Why It’s Called the Medicine Game

The name “Medicine Game” comes from the belief that playing lacrosse brings healing to individuals and communities. Native traditions view lacrosse as a gift from the Creator, meant to restore balance and well-being:

• Healing the mind: The game promotes mental clarity, focus, and stress relief, allowing players to leave their worries behind.
• Healing the body: The physical activity strengthens the body, fostering health and vitality.
• Healing the spirit: The joy, camaraderie, and sense of purpose that come from playing lacrosse uplift the soul and create a sense of connection to something greater.

By embracing the Medicine Game’s meaning, players today can experience the same benefits of healing, joy, and community that Native players have cherished for generations.

How Lacrosse Honors Its Roots Today

Modern lacrosse continues to honor its Native American origins in several ways:

• Tournaments and celebrations: Events like the annual Lacrosse All-Stars North American Invitational and the World Lacrosse Championships recognize the sport’s heritage and its role in uniting players worldwide.
• Inclusion of Native teams: Native lacrosse teams, such as the Haudenosaunee Nationals, compete on the global stage, proudly representing their culture and the original spirit of the game.
• Education and advocacy: Organizations like US Lacrosse and the Iroquois Nationals work to preserve and share the history of the Medicine Game, ensuring players understand the cultural significance behind the sport.

By learning about lacrosse’s roots, players today carry forward the respect, values, and traditions that have shaped the game.

Why Kids Should Play Lacrosse Today

The meaning of the Medicine Game is just as relevant today as it was centuries ago. For kids, playing lacrosse offers:

• A sense of purpose: Lacrosse teaches kids to play not just for themselves but for their teammates, their families, and their communities.
• Physical and emotional benefits: The fast-paced, dynamic nature of lacrosse fosters fitness, stress relief, and mental focus.
• A connection to history: Learning about the game’s origins helps young players appreciate its cultural significance and play with greater respect and intention.
• A source of joy: Just as it has for generations, lacrosse brings people together, creating lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

By embracing the Medicine Game’s spirit, young players can find deeper meaning in their time on the field and carry its lessons into their lives.

Keeping the Spirit Alive

At Big Walnut Lacrosse, we honor the history and meaning of the Medicine Game by fostering a culture of respect, teamwork, and community. We encourage every player to approach the game with gratitude for its rich heritage and the opportunity to grow as both an athlete and a person.

Ready to join a tradition that spans centuries and inspires generations? Register now for the spring season and give your child the chance to play a game rooted in healing, connection, and purpose.