Lacrosse is one of the oldest team sports in North America. There are archaeological findings that proves that a version of lacrosse originated in what is now Canada as early as the 17th century.

The game began with the ball being thrown into the air and the two sides running to catch it. Because of the large number of players included, these games usually tended to involve a huge grouping of players swarming the ball and slowly moving down the field. Passing the ball was thought of as a trick, and it was seen as cowardly to dodge an opponent

Traditional lacrosse games were huge events that could last several days. As many as 100 to 1,000 men from opposing villages or tribes would participate. The games were played in open plains located between the two villages, and the goals could range from 500 yards (460 m) to 6 miles (9.7 km) apart

Lacrosse was both a spiritual and cultural cornerstone of the Native American peoples. They believed that the game was given to them by the great creator. Every time you plaid the game it was an homage their all powerful and all loving God.

Lacrosse games were a social experience for all members of the communities. The medicine men acted as the coaches. Women provided water and refreshments. Younger males watched on and supported their tribes from the sidelines.

The Natives used lacrosse to avoid war fare amongst themselves. When the Iroquois tribes had a dispute, rather than relying on violence, the issue was resolved by a lacrosse game.

Pre-game rituals resembled rituals associated with war. Players would decorate their bodies with paint and charcoal. Players also decorated their sticks or stick racks with objects representing skills desired in the game. The night before a game, players wore ceremonial regalia and held a special dance. Sacrifices were held, and sacred expressions were yelled to intimidate opponents.

Before the game, players were required to place a wager. Items such as handkerchiefs, knives, trinkets, horses, and even wives and children would be at stake. The bets would be displayed on a rack near the spectators, and items would be awarded proportionally to the winner of each quarter.

When the game was over another ceremonial dance took place, along with a large feast for the hungry players