A Native American lacrosse team in the 2028 LA Olympics? It’s possible — but it won’t be easy.
LOS ANGELES — The Haudenosaunee Nationals lacrosse team, a talented group of Native American players from the Northeast, is making a case for their inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. With their rich history as the inventors of the sport and an impressive third-place finish at the World Lacrosse Championship last year, they believe they deserve a spot among the nations competing on the Olympic stage.
President Biden has lent his support to the cause, calling on sports officials to allow the Haudenosaunee to participate. Recognizing the historical significance of lacrosse and the unique circumstances of the Haudenosaunee people, President Biden stated, They perfected [lacrosse] for millennia. Their circumstances are unique.
However, achieving their goal won’t be a straightforward journey. The Haudenosaunee are facing several challenges, largely stemming from the complex web of Olympic regulations. The team is comprised of members of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, which includes communities from both the United States and Canada. The confederacy first played lacrosse on expansive open fields, using sticks made from hickory and catgut. They have always regarded the sport as a divine gift, approaching it with a joyful spirit.
In modern times, the team faced significant obstacles due to their lack of recognition as a sovereign nation. International tournaments denied them entry, and opposing players subjected them to racist taunts. However, recent victories at world championships have helped them earn respect both on and off the field, positioning them for the Olympic Games — a milestone that holds immense significance.
According to Randy Staats, a veteran player, the inclusion of the Haudenosaunee in the Olympics represents progress towards a more inclusive and respectful world of sports. He stated, This marks a positive step forward in the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive and respectful world of sports.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) functions as a corporation safeguarding its lucrative enterprise. It strictly regulates every aspect of the Games, akin to the protection of well-known brands such as Oreos or Kleenex. These regulations pose a formidable challenge for the Haudenosaunee team as they strive to secure their place in the 2028 Olympics.
The path to Olympic participation for the Haudenosaunee requires navigating through a maze of regulations and protocols. Establishing their eligibility as a recognized sovereign nation is crucial, considering the IOC’s stringent criteria for participation. Overcoming these hurdles will require strategic advocacy and diplomacy.
As the news unfolds, the lacrosse community and supporters of the Haudenosaunee Nationals eagerly await the decision of sports officials regarding their inclusion in the 2028 Olympics. The potential acceptance of this Native American team will carry significant symbolic weight, highlighting a more inclusive and diverse representation of sports on the global stage.
As the conversation progresses and the Haudenosaunee continue to make their case, it remains to be seen whether their history, talent, and determination will open the doors to the 2028 Olympics. One thing is certain: the journey ahead won’t be easy, but the Haudenosaunee Nationals are prepared to face the challenges head-on, remaining steadfast in their pursuit of Olympic glory and the promotion of a more inclusive sporting world.
