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Respect the Roots

Lacrosse is more than just a game—it’s a sacred gift, deeply rooted in the traditions of Indigenous peoples. Known as the Creator’s Game, lacrosse was gifted to the first people of this continent as a form of medicine for healing, resolving conflicts, and connecting to the spiritual world. At PNW Native Lacrosse, we honor the origins of the game by recognizing the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, Choctaw, Cherokee, and all tribal nations whose stick and ball games have influenced the sport we now call lacrosse.

The Respect the Roots: Lacrosse Origins Acknowledgment is an initiative to honor this history and bring it to the forefront of every lacrosse community. By integrating a pre-game acknowledgment into home games, we aim to inspire players, coaches, and fans to connect with the deeper teachings of lacrosse, including respect, unity, and gratitude.

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What Is the Respect the Roots Acknowledgment?

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This initiative encourages participating programs to adopt:

  1. A Pre-Game Verbal Acknowledgment: A script read by the announcer before home games, recognizing the origins of lacrosse and its cultural significance.

  2. A Printed Banner: Displayed at home games, visually reinforcing the acknowledgment and inviting spectators to reflect on the roots of the Creator’s Game.

  3. Social Media Assets: Posts and graphics to celebrate your program’s participation and amplify the message across your community.

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Why It Matters

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Lacrosse’s history is intertwined with Indigenous culture, spirituality, and tradition. By adopting this acknowledgment, your program will:

  • Honor the Game’s Origins: Recognize the sacred history and teachings of lacrosse.

  • Educate and Inspire: Help players and fans understand and appreciate the deeper significance of the game.

  • Foster Community: Build a shared respect for the values of the Creator’s Game, including good mind, heart, and spirit.

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The acknowledgment is more than words; it’s a movement to reconnect with lacrosse’s sacred roots and ensure its teachings influence how the game is played and celebrated today.

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How Programs Can Participate

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Joining this initiative is simple! Here’s how:

  1. Contact Us: Let us know your program is interested in participating.

  2. Collaborate on a Custom Script: We will work with your program to craft an acknowledgment that reflects your voice while honoring the roots of lacrosse.

  3. Receive Your Toolkit: Participating programs will receive:

    • A custom pre-game acknowledgment script.

    • A 3x6 printed banner for display at home games.

    • Social media templates and assets to promote your participation.

  4. Share and Implement: Incorporate the acknowledgment into your home games, display the banner, and use your social platforms to spread the message.

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Join the Movement

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Be part of a growing community that respects the roots of lacrosse and celebrates its sacred origins. Together, we can honor the Creator’s Game and ensure its values guide the future of lacrosse.

 

Contact Us to Participate
Email: info@pnwnativelax.com

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