SYNOPSIS

Lacrosse has no known start date. No one knows exactly when the first stick was made and when the first ball was thrown from one person to another. Instead, the first stories of the origins of lacrosse have to do with the birds and the land animals squaring off in a fierce ball game, in honor of the creator. The lacrosse creation story lives in the cultural fabric of many different Native American tribes and Nations. Today’s game still reflects the origin story in spirit and skill, and the film SACRED SPORT allows the viewer to connect the game they play or watch today, with the sacred practice of Native Americans.

SACRED SPORT tells the story of lacrosse. The film moves from the creation game to the games played by Native American tribes for healing and peace all the way up to the World Games of lacrosse played by the Iroquois National team. The film also focusses on the key element of lacrosse, the stick, and the artistry of Onondaga Nation stickmaker, Alf Jacques.

Roy Simmons, Jr., the hall of fame coach from Syracuse, said, “everyone who picks up a stick should know why and where it came from.” SACRED SPORT, using NFL Films cinematographer Dave Malek’s images, makes that possible.