Washington Stealth to Host Native American Heritage Event April 28

Published on April 17, 2012 under National Lacrosse League (NLL)
Washington Stealth News Release


Everett, Wash. - The Washington Stealth has announced that the team will honor Native American Heritage at its April 28 game against the Buffalo Bandits. Forwards Brett Bucktooth and Dean Hill will be appearing at the University of Washington Powwow on April 21.

"Lacrosse is the oldest sport played in North America with a rich history long preceding the arrival of European explorers," Stealth President David Takata said. "About ten percent of the NLL athletes taking the turf on any given weekend have ancestral roots to the 'Creator's Game' dating over a thousand years." He added, "We are fortunate to have two Native players on the Stealth who have taken extraordinary efforts to share the game with our fans and local tribes."

The game on April 28 will feature regional tribal members attending the game, as well as participating in ceremonial roles.

On April 21, Stealth forwards Brett Bucktooth (Oneida) and Dean Hill (Mohawk), both of whom also play for the Iroquois Nationals in international competition, will be appearing at the First Nations at University of Washington's 41st Annual Spring Powwow. The Powwow is the largest student-run event on the university's campus with over 8,000 people in attendance every year. Bucktooth and Hill will be on hand to discuss the gift of lacrosse and its role as a medicine game in Native culture.

The Stealth today also announced the appointment of Robert Upham and Dave Waterman as the team's Native American Liaisons. Upham, a member of the Dakota Sioux Tribe, started the Blue Pony Lacrosse program for the Native American Community in Denver, Colo., and has worked with numerous organizations including the Native American Sports Council. Waterman, a member of the Oneida Indian Nation, played lacrosse for the Iroquois Nationals and played NCAA lacrosse at Cortland State University (NY).

"Robert and Dave embrace the spirit of the game and have the ability to pass on knowledge of a uniquely Native game that has become the fastest growing sport in North America," said Takata. "We are honored to have them join the Stealth family working with local tribes to ensure we respect the traditions as we promote the game and culture of lacrosse."

The Native American Heritage celebration will take place on Saturday, April 28 at the Stealth's regular season finale against the Buffalo Bandits at the Comcast Arena. Game time is 7:15pm. Tickets start at just $7 and are available by calling 877-MY-75-TIX or at www.stealthlax.com.

Share: Facebook | Twitter/X | LinkedIn | Reddit | Email



National Lacrosse League Stories from April 17, 2012


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central