Lacrosse was one of the many stickball tribal games played by the Eastern Woodlands Native Americans in the early 1600's. It is one of the oldest team sports in North America originating from Canada and the Great Lakes. At the time, traditional lacrosse games could last for hours or even days. As many as 100 to 1,000 men from opposing tribes would participate with the goals ranging from 500 yards to six miles. The game was played from sunset until sundown with it concluding after 20 points had been scored. There was no out of bounds, no penalties, and the only rule was you couldn't touch the ball with your hands. The game began with the ball being tossed into the air and the two sides rushing to catch it. Because there were so many players, mobs of people would rush at one another with the ball moving very slowly across the field. Surprisingly, passing the ball was thought of as a trick, and it was seen as cowardly to dodge an opponent. The coaches were both males and females who helped aid others when in need. Something interesting about the game of lacrosse though was that it wasn't played to have "fun", it was played to settle inter-tribal disputes, to prepare them for war, and for religious reasons. These games would toughen them to become better warriors for combat and they would also be played for the pleasure of their Creator. The night before the event, players wore ceremonial attire and held a massive special dance where sacrifices were held. On the day of the game, many of the players would decorate both their bodies and sticks in paint. This was used as a sign of respect to their Creator and an intimidation factor against their opponents. Before the war began, all the players would walk onto the field to receive a spiritual pep talk. This included ceremonial scratches on their body or dunking their sticks in the water. In addition, bets were put at place and the winner would be awarded at the end o...