We have a lot going on at The Edge Sports Center, including turf rental options and pickup games of soccer and lacrosse. We’ve talked about soccer a lot on this blog, so now it’s lacrosse’s turn to be in the spotlight.
Indigenous Origins
Lacrosse has origins among various Indigenous peoples of North America, including the Iroquois, Algonquin, and Huron tribes. These tribes played the game long before European settlers arrived, with evidence suggesting its roots stretch back several centuries.
Traditional lacrosse games were played with wooden sticks and a ball made from materials like deerskin or wood. The games could be large-scale events involving hundreds of players and could last for days. These games were not just sports but also had spiritual and ceremonial significance, often used to settle disputes or prepare for war.
European Contact and Adaptation
European settlers first encountered lacrosse in the 17th century. Jesuit missionaries and explorers documented the game, noting its popularity and the skill of the players. They gave it the name “lacrosse,” which is derived from the French la crosse, meaning ‘the stick,” referring to the curved stick used in the game.
In the 19th century, European settlers and their descendants began to adapt and formalize the game. The rules and equipment evolved with the introduction of metal sticks and standardized field dimensions. This version of the game became known as “field lacrosse.”
Modernization and Growth
In the late 1800s, lacrosse began to gain popularity outside of Indigenous communities, particularly in Canada and the United States. The first recorded lacrosse game between teams from different schools took place in 1867. The establishment of the Canadian Lacrosse Association in 1876 formalized the sport.
Lacrosse started to spread internationally in the 20th century. The International Lacrosse Federation (now known as World Lacrosse) was founded in 2008 to oversee the sport’s global development. The sport has gained a following in various countries, including Australia, the United Kingdom, and several European nations.
Pickup Lacrosse and Turf Rental | The Edge Sports Center
Lacrosse has continued to evolve and grow globally. It’s recognized for its fast-paced, physical gameplay and the skill required to play. Whether you play for a school team or amateur league or join a pickup game from time to time, The Edge Sports Center is the place to play! Join a pickup game or ask us about our turf rental options.