Six Star Magazine Six Star Magazine Fall 2016 | Page 31

Crossing paths
The motto for the game of lacrosse, created in 1867, was “our
country and our game”—and this powerful statement stands to this
very day. This national treasure of speed and skill was created by
combining the religious and social rituals of our Native Canadians
with the distinctly European concepts of structure and rules.
When it comes to the legends surrounding this game, the most
famous tale has lacrosse playing a part in the Pontiac’s Rebellion
of 1763. Here, we learn that the Ottawa chief hosted a bogus game,
strategically distracting British soldiers while sneaking into Fort
Michilimackinac (now Michigan). Now, that’s a nice play!
Today, our country boasts world-class lacrosse programs running
across the country and world-championship winning men’s,
women‘s and youth teams. Some overzealous types, such as some
players in Vaughan, Ontario, earned a place in the Guinness World
Book of Records for the world’s longest game, clocking in at 25 hours.
With several fundamental skills similar to hockey, it’s no surprise that
many highly skilled NHLers, including Wayne Gretzky, played
lacrosse in their youth.
There’s never been a better time to celebrate the sport than now—
the 150th Anniversary of Lacrosse Celebration will take place in
Montreal from June 16-18, 2017. Events will range from reenactments
of the very first lacrosse games, tournaments, historical displays and
heaps of other fun activities.

OPPOSITE PAGE: PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES. THIS PAGE, TOP AND
MIDDLE: PHOTOS BY PAUL YATES. BOTTOM: PHOTO COURTESY OF CANADA
DEPT OF NATIONAL DEFENCE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA

six star magazine 31