As 2024 comes to a close, we’re reflecting on an incredible year filled with unforgettable moments, powerful teachings, and countless connections. This year was about so much more than lacrosse—it was about celebrating our culture, uplifting our youth, and building a strong foundation for generations to come. Here are our Top 10 moments of 2024, a year that truly embodied the spirit of the Creator’s Game.
1. Game-Winning Glory at the NW Summer Open Our All-Native High School Boys made history with their first championship appearance, thanks to Hudson Tripi’s heroic left-handed goal in a double-overtime braveheart. The energy, determination, and teamwork in that moment captured the essence of PNW Native Lacrosse.
2. Emmett’s Journey to the Field We couldn’t be prouder of Emmett, who attended nearly all our camps and clinics this summer. Seeing his excitement as we gifted him his first set of gear and covered his spring registration fees to join the Tacoma Tigers was a defining moment for our mission.
3. Smudging Lessons at the BC Sixes Teaching our U13 All-Native Boys about the power and medicine of smudging during the BC Sixes Tournament in Burnaby, British Columbia, was a deeply spiritual and transformative experience. It connected the team to the sacred aspects of the game.
4. Creator’s Game on Colville Land Sharing the Creator’s Game with the youth of the Colville Tribes this summer was a profound reminder of why we do what we do—to honor traditions, empower youth, and strengthen our communities.
5. Meeting Rick Roy and Kevin Sandy Meeting lacrosse legends Rick Roy and Kevin Sandy at the Oregon High School Boys Coaches meeting in January was a pivotal moment that sparked a wave of momentum for PNW Native Lacrosse. Their support and shared vision inspired us to reach new heights.
6. PNW Native Lacrosse in US Lacrosse Magazine Seeing PNW Native Lacrosse and our camp with the Snoqualmie Tribe mentioned in US Lacrosse Magazine was a huge honor. Sharing Page 1 with our friend Justin Giles underscored the growing recognition of our mission.
7. Stick Drive with USA Lacrosse Partnering with USA Lacrosse and Lyn Porterfield at the Washington State High School Boys Championship and All-Star Games for a stick drive was a powerful way to give back. Together, we put more sticks in the hands of Native youth.
8. First Game Teachings at Chief Leschi Teaching the story of the First Game between the Four-Legged and the Winged Animals at Chief Leschi this spring brought cultural teachings to life for the next generation.
9. Choctaw Stick Ball at Battle of the Border Learning and playing Choctaw Stick Ball between games at the Battle of the Border tournament was a fall highlight. Carly and Olivia’s teachings brought joy and cultural connection to everyone involved.
10. Empowering Youth with the Snoqualmie Tribe Collaborating with the Snoqualmie Tribe to host an incredible camp for Native youth reminded us of the power of community. Their partnership and generosity created an experience we’ll never forget.
Looking Ahead to 2025 As we look back on this amazing year, we are grateful to everyone who supported, participated in, or partnered with PNW Native Lacrosse. None of this would have been possible without you. Together, we are breaking barriers, celebrating culture, and ensuring that the Creator’s Game continues to thrive in Native communities. Here’s to an even bigger and brighter 2025!
Comments