Special
Programs Introduction |
Learning Support Center (LSC) |
Native Games | Native Culinary Arts
NATIVE GAMES SUMMER CAMP
Introduction | Spirituality
| Physical Fitness | Games
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"Night
Game"
Alex Lewis (Cheyenne River Lakota) |
Physical Fitness
Many games were played for training into adult life. The games often
imitated life in their structure. Lacrosse is often referred to The
Little Brother of War because of its furious game play. Often times,
before stickball games, there are ceremonies that are held to prepare
the player to perform at the game.
Individual ceremonies would sometimes include isolation to pray for
a good outcome. There would also be dietary restrictions so not to weigh
down a player while on the field. Certain meats, such as rabbit, would
not be eaten before a game because of the fear on might take on the
traits of the animal.
Group ceremonies would involve entire communities moments before, during,
and after the game. Singing and dancing was done by each teams community
to rally the players before the game. Observing the game and cheering
happened during the game. After the game was finished, there would sometimes
be a feast for the players and the people who watched.
Games would be played for healing purposes on the behalf of one person
or many people. Games would also be played to pray for a good crop,
rain, or a good year. But then there were the games that were played
for fun.
These games would played primarily by children because the adults usually
had other things to worry about.
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