Indigenous culture was celebrated this spring by 140 youth at the inaugural lacrosse exhibition at Great Lakes Secondary School in Sarnia, Ont. The event, supported by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO), was organized to showcase the history and talent of a game that has been a central component of many Indigenous cultures for centuries. 

“Our first annual Lacrosse Day was a huge success,” said organizer Dallas Sinopole, Native Education Worker at Great Lakes Secondary School. “The kids couldn’t thank me enough for the history and teachings that they learned. We hope this is the first of many more days of lacrosse in our education system.”

The morning was filled with traditional knowledge about the original game of stickball, teachings about shared life skills and how the game relates to everyday life. The afternoon included stick skills, conditioning, and a visit from Sarnia native and Rochester Knighthawks forward Kyle Jackson. The National Lacrosse League player shared advice on the game, life goals and personal experiences.

“The NWMO is happy to support this event, which incorporates Indigenous Knowledge and teachings into the schools. It encourages teachers and students to appreciate Indigenous perspectives and gain greater respect for local culture,” said Greg Plain, Senior Engagement Advisor, Indigenous Engagement, at the NWMO.