Understanding why lacrosse holds profound spiritual and cultural significance for the Haudenosaunee people
For the Haudenosaunee people (Iroquois Confederacy), lacrosse is not merely a game—it is a sacred gift from the Creator. Known as "Tewaarathon" or "the Creator's Game," lacrosse serves as a spiritual practice, a form of medicine, and a fundamental part of their cultural identity.
The Haudenosaunee believe that when they play lacrosse, they are playing for the Creator's enjoyment. The game is meant to bring joy, healing, and balance to the community and to honor the gifts given to humanity.
"Lacrosse is our identity. It's who we are as Haudenosaunee people. It connects us to our ancestors, to our traditions, and to the Creator."
Lacrosse as healing, ceremony, and spiritual practice
Games are held to help heal the sick or injured. The Haudenosaunee believe that playing lacrosse can cure illness and bring strength back to those who are weak or suffering.
The game creates a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds. Players enter a sacred space where they commune with the Creator and honor their ancestors.
Lacrosse brings the community together in celebration, prayer, and shared purpose. It strengthens bonds between families, clans, and nations.
Before traditional games, players participate in ceremonies including prayers, songs, and the burning of tobacco as offerings to the Creator. These rituals prepare players spiritually and show respect for the sacred nature of the game.
Games are often played as part of larger thanksgiving ceremonies, expressing gratitude to the Creator for life, health, harvest, and all blessings received by the community.
Traditional lacrosse games mark important seasonal transitions—planting time, harvest season, and other significant moments in the agricultural and ceremonial calendar.
Games may be played to honor those who have passed away, believing that the spirits of loved ones watch and enjoy the game, maintaining the connection between the living and the dead.
Lacrosse as a symbol of Haudenosaunee nationhood and self-determination
The Haudenosaunee compete internationally under their own flag and passports, representing their sovereignty as a nation. They are the only Indigenous nation with their own sanctioned international lacrosse team.
By competing on the world stage, the Haudenosaunee assert their identity, demonstrate their continued existence, and share their culture with people around the globe.
Lacrosse is a crucial tool for passing down language, values, traditions, and stories to Haudenosaunee youth, ensuring cultural continuity and pride in their heritage.
Lacrosse connects Haudenosaunee people to their ancestors, their land, and their identity as a sovereign nation with a rich cultural legacy.
Life lessons embedded in every aspect of lacrosse
For opponents, teammates, elders, and the game itself
Facing challenges with bravery and determination
Working together toward a common goal
Recognizing that the game is bigger than any individual
Dedication to practice, training, and self-improvement
Harmony between mind, body, and spirit
Never giving up, even when facing adversity
Supporting and caring for one another
"When we play lacrosse, we're not just playing a game. We're honoring our ancestors, strengthening our community, and keeping our culture alive for the next seven generations."
— Haudenosaunee Teaching