Lacrosse-The Creator's Game

Summary

The video script narrates the rich history and cultural significance of lacrosse, a sport deeply rooted in Native American traditions. It details the game's evolution from a spiritual practice to a competitive sport, facing challenges like rule changes by non-natives and the exclusion of native teams. Despite these, lacrosse remains a symbol of pride and unity for indigenous communities, with modern players like Gaylord Powless exemplifying skill and sportsmanship. The script also touches on the game's potential for growth and the need to preserve its cultural essence.

Takeaways

• 🏹 Lacrosse originated as a spiritual and healing game for Indigenous people, played to strengthen medicine and community.
• 🌿 The game was played without boundaries, with minimal rules, and invoked the spirits of swift animals for guidance and strength.
• ⚡ Early non-Native spectators misunderstood lacrosse, perceiving it as violent due to the intense passion of Indigenous players.
• 🏒 Lacrosse evolved with new rules introduced by George Beers, including boundaries and a fixed number of players, to suit non-Native players.
• 👑 In 1876, a Native lacrosse team played at Windsor Castle before Queen Victoria, marking a milestone in the game's global exposure.
• 🚫 By 1880, Indigenous teams were banned from championship play as they were labeled 'professionals,' reflecting racial discrimination.
• 🎖 Despite restrictions, Indigenous players continued to compete and were even recruited as 'ringers' for non-Native teams, though they were often treated unfairly.
• 🥇 Lacrosse gained national and international attention, with Canada winning Olympic gold in 1904 and 1908, but it declined in popularity post-WWI.
• 🪵 Traditional wooden lacrosse sticks are favored by Indigenous players for their control and spiritual significance over modern plastic sticks.
• 🌍 Despite efforts to suppress the Indigenous roots of lacrosse, the game remains a source of pride and cultural identity for Native communities today.

Q & A

What is the cultural significance of the game mentioned in the script?

The game, which appears to be lacrosse, is described as a gift from the Creator and was played to strengthen medicines. It had deep spiritual roots and was used for healing, with players invoking the spirits of animals to guide them. It was a key part of cultural identity and survival.

How did non-Natives perceive the game when they first encountered it?

Non-Natives initially misinterpreted the game as violent due to the enthusiasm and intensity of the players. However, they were unaware of the spiritual significance that Native players infused into the game.

What role did George Beers play in the history of lacrosse?

George Beers was a lacrosse player and a fan who created new rules for lacrosse to suit non-Native preferences. His modifications included the introduction of boundaries and reducing the number of players on a team.

How did the exclusion of Native teams from championship play affect them?

In 1880, Native teams were barred from championship play and labeled as professionals, which was a tactic used by non-Native rule-makers to avoid competing with Native teams. In response, Native communities continued to play lacrosse among themselves, maintaining their cultural connection to the game.

How did the introduction of the plastic stick affect the game?

The introduction of plastic sticks distorted the fundamentals of the game. Many players preferred the traditional wooden hickory stick, which provided better control, feel, and leverage, arguing that plastic sticks lacked the flexibility and connection offered by wooden ones.

What impact did lacrosse moving indoors have on the game?

In the early 1930s, lacrosse moved indoors to hockey arenas, giving rise to the version known as box lacrosse. This allowed Native players to compete in professional leagues, but also marked a shift away from the outdoor version of the game.

How did the cultural shift affect Native communities' relationship with lacrosse?

As lacrosse became more professionalized and competitive, Native players started to lose their spiritual connection to the game. They began focusing more on competing with non-Natives and excelling in the new professional world, moving away from the traditional cultural values tied to lacrosse.

Who was Harry Smith, and what role did he play in popular culture?

Harry Smith, from the Six Nations Community, was a lacrosse player who went on to become an actor, famously portraying Tonto in 'The Lone Ranger' series under the nickname Silverheels. His career in Hollywood highlighted a Native presence in mainstream media, even if it sometimes involved stereotypical roles.

How did Native players like Ross Powless handle the racism and abuse they faced?

Ross Powless, one of the most skilled lacrosse players of his time, faced abuse from teammates and opponents due to his Native background. Despite this, he chose not to retaliate, focusing instead on proving his skills and making his mark in the game.

What message is conveyed at the end of the script regarding lacrosse and Native identity?

The script concludes by highlighting the enduring connection between lacrosse and Native identity, expressing pride in the game's return to its spiritual roots. It reflects on the strength and resilience of Native communities, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming their culture and traditions through lacrosse.