Who was Alf Jacques and how did he contribute to preserving traditional lacrosse. What made Jacques’ lacrosse sticks unique and sought-after. How did the indigenous lacrosse community honor Alf Jacques’ legacy. What is the cultural significance of wooden lacrosse sticks in Native American communities.
The Life and Legacy of Alf Jacques: Master Lacrosse Stick Maker
Alf Jacques, a renowned lacrosse stick maker from the Onondaga Nation, passed away at the age of 74, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of traditional lacrosse. Jacques was not just a craftsman; he was a cultural guardian who played a pivotal role in preserving the ancient art of wooden lacrosse stick making.
Jacques began his journey in the 1970s, working alongside his father Louie in their backyard on the Onondaga Nation. Over the decades, he handcrafted thousands of wooden lacrosse sticks, each one a testament to his skill, dedication, and deep connection to his heritage.
The Importance of Traditional Lacrosse Sticks
Why are wooden lacrosse sticks so significant in Native American culture? Traditional wooden sticks hold immense cultural and spiritual value for many indigenous communities. They represent a tangible link to ancestral practices and embody the spirit of the game that has been played for centuries. Alf Jacques’ work in preserving this craft ensured that future generations could maintain this vital connection to their heritage.
Alf Jacques’ Unique Craftsmanship and Expertise
What set Alf Jacques’ lacrosse sticks apart from others? Jacques was known for his meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of the materials he worked with. He carefully selected and cured hickory wood, shaping each stick by hand using traditional methods passed down through generations. His sticks were prized for their balance, durability, and the way they seemed to become an extension of the player’s arm.
- Handcrafted from carefully selected hickory wood
- Shaped using traditional techniques
- Known for exceptional balance and durability
- Each stick unique, reflecting the natural characteristics of the wood
The Impact of Alf Jacques on Modern Lacrosse
How did Alf Jacques influence the modern game of lacrosse? Despite the prevalence of mass-produced synthetic sticks in contemporary lacrosse, Jacques’ work helped maintain a connection to the game’s roots. Many players, both Native and non-Native, sought out his sticks for their superior feel and the sense of tradition they embodied. His advocacy for traditional stick-making also helped raise awareness about the cultural significance of the sport beyond just its competitive aspects.
Preserving Traditional Lacrosse: Alf Jacques’ Educational Efforts
In what ways did Alf Jacques work to educate others about traditional lacrosse? Beyond his craftsmanship, Jacques was a passionate educator. He frequently gave demonstrations, workshops, and lectures on the art of stick-making and the cultural importance of lacrosse. His efforts helped ensure that the knowledge and skills required to create these sticks were not lost to time.
- Conducted workshops on traditional stick-making techniques
- Gave lectures on the cultural significance of lacrosse
- Mentored younger generations in the craft
- Collaborated with museums and cultural institutions to showcase the art form
The Indigenous Lacrosse Community’s Tribute to Alf Jacques
How did the lacrosse community honor Alf Jacques during his battle with cancer? In a touching display of respect and gratitude, the Native American lacrosse community organized a five-team tournament to support Jacques as he faced health challenges. The event, held on April 15 and 16, 2023, brought together teams from across New York State. The proceeds from the tournament were dedicated to helping cover Jacques’ medical expenses, demonstrating the deep impact he had made on the lacrosse community.
The Spirit of Unity in Lacrosse
This tribute exemplifies the strong sense of community and mutual support that exists within the world of lacrosse, particularly among indigenous players and enthusiasts. It highlights how figures like Alf Jacques are revered not just for their skills, but for their role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
The Future of Traditional Lacrosse Stick Making
What does the future hold for traditional lacrosse stick making after the loss of Alf Jacques? While Jacques’ passing marks the end of an era, his legacy continues through those he mentored and inspired. Many young craftspeople, both within and outside Native communities, have taken up the mantle of traditional stick-making, ensuring that this ancient art form will persist.
However, challenges remain. The availability of suitable wood, the time-intensive nature of the craft, and competition from mass-produced sticks all pose obstacles to the continuation of traditional stick-making. Efforts are underway in various communities to support and encourage the next generation of artisans to keep this vital cultural practice alive.
The Cultural Significance of Lacrosse in Native American Communities
To fully appreciate Alf Jacques’ contributions, it’s essential to understand the deep cultural roots of lacrosse in Native American societies. Often referred to as “the Creator’s game” or “the medicine game,” lacrosse holds a sacred place in many indigenous cultures, particularly among the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) nations.
Spiritual and Social Aspects of Lacrosse
How does lacrosse function beyond just a sport in Native communities? In many Native American cultures, lacrosse is seen as a spiritual practice, a form of conflict resolution, and a way to bring communities together. Games can be played for healing, to settle disputes, or as part of important ceremonies. The wooden stick, crafted from trees and imbued with the maker’s intention and skill, is seen as a living instrument that connects the player to the earth and to their ancestors.
- Used in healing ceremonies and spiritual practices
- Played to settle disputes between tribes or communities
- Serves as a way to honor the Creator and ancestral traditions
- Brings communities together for social bonding and cultural reinforcement
Alf Jacques’ Role in Revitalizing Interest in Traditional Lacrosse
How did Alf Jacques contribute to a resurgence of interest in traditional lacrosse? As mass-produced plastic sticks became the norm in competitive lacrosse, there was a risk that the art of wooden stick-making could be lost. Jacques played a crucial role in maintaining interest in traditional sticks and, by extension, in the cultural aspects of the game.
His work attracted attention not just from indigenous players but also from non-Native enthusiasts who sought to connect with the game’s roots. This interest helped spark a broader movement to preserve and promote traditional lacrosse, leading to the establishment of leagues and tournaments that specifically use wooden sticks.
The Ripple Effect of Jacques’ Work
Jacques’ influence extended beyond just stick-making. His dedication to the craft inspired many to explore other aspects of traditional lacrosse, from historically accurate gameplay to the spiritual and ceremonial aspects of the sport. This renewed interest has played a significant role in cultural revitalization efforts within Native communities and has fostered greater cross-cultural understanding and appreciation of indigenous traditions.
Challenges Faced by Traditional Stick Makers
What obstacles do traditional lacrosse stick makers like Alf Jacques encounter? Creating a traditional wooden lacrosse stick is a time-intensive process that requires great skill and patience. Modern stick makers face several challenges in continuing this ancient craft:
- Sourcing appropriate wood: Finding hickory trees of the right age and quality has become increasingly difficult.
- Time investment: A single stick can take weeks or even months to complete, making it challenging to produce sticks in large quantities.
- Economic pressures: The high cost of handmade sticks compared to mass-produced alternatives can limit their market.
- Preservation of knowledge: With fewer people learning the craft, there’s a risk of traditional techniques being lost.
- Regulatory issues: Synthetic sticks are often required in official competitions, limiting the use of wooden sticks in high-level play.
Despite these challenges, artisans like Alf Jacques have persevered, driven by a deep commitment to their cultural heritage and a belief in the superior quality of traditionally crafted sticks.
The Global Impact of Alf Jacques’ Craft
While rooted in Onondaga and Haudenosaunee culture, Alf Jacques’ influence reached far beyond his local community. His sticks found their way into the hands of players and collectors around the world, serving as ambassadors for Native American craftsmanship and cultural values.
International Recognition
How did Alf Jacques’ work gain international acclaim? Jacques’ sticks were sought after by players and enthusiasts globally, appearing in museums, private collections, and even in international lacrosse competitions. This worldwide interest helped raise awareness about the cultural significance of lacrosse and its indigenous origins.
The respect accorded to Jacques’ work also opened doors for cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration. It provided opportunities for indigenous voices to be heard in discussions about sports heritage, cultural preservation, and the importance of traditional craftsmanship in an increasingly mass-produced world.
Environmental Stewardship in Traditional Stick Making
How does traditional lacrosse stick making relate to environmental conservation? The process of creating wooden lacrosse sticks, as practiced by Alf Jacques and other traditional craftspeople, is inherently tied to environmental stewardship. This connection offers valuable lessons in sustainable resource management and respect for nature.
- Selective harvesting: Only certain trees are chosen, ensuring forest health
- Whole-tree usage: Various parts of the tree are used for different components of the stick, minimizing waste
- Natural materials: The use of organic materials like leather for the pocket aligns with eco-friendly practices
- Long-lasting products: Well-made wooden sticks can last for years, reducing the need for frequent replacements
This approach to craftsmanship stands in stark contrast to the mass production of synthetic sticks, offering a model of sustainable, small-scale manufacturing that respects both cultural traditions and environmental concerns.
The Role of Women in Traditional Lacrosse and Stick Making
While Alf Jacques is celebrated for his contributions to men’s lacrosse stick making, it’s important to recognize the role of women in both the sport of lacrosse and the craft of stick making. Traditionally, in many Native American cultures, women played their own version of lacrosse, often with distinct rules and stick designs.
Women’s Contributions to the Craft
How have women contributed to the tradition of lacrosse stick making? Women have long played a crucial role in various aspects of stick production, particularly in the creation of the leather netting or “pocket” of the stick. In some communities, women are also involved in the wood selection and shaping process.
Today, there is a growing movement to revitalize women’s traditional lacrosse and stick-making practices. This resurgence is not only preserving important cultural knowledge but also challenging gender norms and empowering women within the lacrosse community.
The Educational Legacy of Alf Jacques
Beyond his craftsmanship, Alf Jacques leaves behind a significant educational legacy. His willingness to share his knowledge and skills has ensured that the art of traditional stick making will continue into future generations.
Mentorship and Knowledge Transfer
How did Alf Jacques contribute to educating future generations? Throughout his career, Jacques took on apprentices and mentored younger craftspeople, passing on not just the technical skills of stick making but also the cultural knowledge and spiritual aspects associated with the craft. He frequently participated in educational programs, visiting schools and cultural centers to demonstrate his craft and share stories about the significance of lacrosse in Haudenosaunee culture.
This commitment to education has had a ripple effect, inspiring many to not only take up stick making but also to become educators and cultural ambassadors themselves. The knowledge shared by Jacques continues to inform and inspire new generations of players, craftspeople, and cultural preservationists.
The Intersection of Art and Sport in Lacrosse Stick Making
The creation of a traditional lacrosse stick sits at a unique intersection of functional craft and fine art. Each stick made by Alf Jacques was not just a piece of sporting equipment but also a work of art, reflecting centuries of cultural knowledge and aesthetic tradition.
Artistic Elements in Stick Design
What artistic considerations go into crafting a traditional lacrosse stick? While the primary purpose of a lacrosse stick is functional, traditional stick makers like Jacques incorporate various artistic elements into their work:
- Wood grain patterns: Carefully selecting and orienting the wood to showcase natural beauty
- Carving and shaping: Creating elegant, flowing lines that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing
- Traditional designs: Incorporating symbolic patterns or motifs that carry cultural significance
- Personalization: Crafting each stick to suit the individual player’s style and preferences
This blend of form and function in Jacques’ work has helped elevate lacrosse stick making from a purely utilitarian craft to a respected art form, recognized in galleries and museums alongside other forms of indigenous art.
The Economic Impact of Traditional Lacrosse Stick Making
While often overshadowed by the cultural and spiritual aspects, the economic dimension of traditional lacrosse stick making is significant, particularly for indigenous communities. Artisans like Alf Jacques have played a crucial role in sustaining local economies and providing unique economic opportunities.
Economic Opportunities in Craft Production
How does traditional stick making contribute to local economies? The production and sale of handcrafted lacrosse sticks can provide important income for individual artisans and their families. Moreover, it can stimulate related economic activities within communities:
- Tourism: Attracting visitors interested in learning about and purchasing authentic Native American crafts
- Education: Creating opportunities for workshops, classes, and cultural programs
- Supplementary industries: Supporting related crafts such as leather working for stick pockets
- Community reinvestment: Profits from stick sales often support other community initiatives
The economic aspect of stick making underscores the multifaceted importance of preserving traditional crafts, demonstrating how cultural preservation can also contribute to community sustainability and self-reliance.
The Future of Lacrosse and Traditional Stick Making
As we reflect on the legacy of Alf Jacques and the tradition of wooden lacrosse stick making, it’s natural to consider the future of both the sport and the craft. While challenges exist, there are also promising developments that suggest a continued appreciation for traditional lacrosse.
Evolving Traditions in a Modern Context
How is traditional lacrosse adapting to the modern world? Several trends point to a bright future for traditional lacrosse and stick making:
- Growing interest in cultural authenticity and heritage sports
- Increased recognition of indigenous rights and cultural practices
- Development of lacrosse leagues and tournaments specifically for wooden sticks
- Integration of traditional elements into mainstream lacrosse education and training
- Use of modern technology to document and preserve traditional crafting techniques
These developments suggest that while the landscape of lacrosse continues to evolve, the legacy of craftsmen like Alf Jacques will continue to play a vital role in shaping the future of the sport and maintaining its deep cultural connections.
Indigenous lacrosse community rallies for stick-maker Alf Jacques (photo of the week)
Posted inPhotojournalism
Funds from the tournament will help pay Jacques’ medical bills as he battles cancer.
by Michael Greenlar
Mike Greenlar | Central Current
The Native American lacrosse community organized a five-team tournament on April 15 and 16 to support legendary stick-maker Alf Jacques.
He is currently battling cancer, and the proceeds from the tournament will go toward his treatment. The five teams came from across New York State.
Jacques is a world-renowned, traditional wooden lacrosse stick maker. He began making his sticks with his father Louie in their backyard on the Onondaga Nation in the 1970s.
Since that time, Jacques has made thousands of wooden lacrosse sticks.
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Lacrosse Stickmaker (Short 2016) – IMDb
- 2016
- 42m
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The almost lost art of ancient American Indian lacrosse stick making.The almost lost art of ancient American Indian lacrosse stick making.The almost lost art of ancient American Indian lacrosse stick making.
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- Tracy Morse
- Writer
- Tracy Morse
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- Ron Patterson
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- Release date
- January 20, 2016 (United States)
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Lacrosse ball – Wikipedia
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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
PEARL X Lacrosse Ball
A lacrosse ball is the solid rubber ball that is used, with a lacrosse stick, to play the sport of lacrosse.
It is typically white for men’s lacrosse, or yellow for women’s lacrosse; but is also produced in a wide variety of colors.
The old NCAA specifications are:
- Mass
- 140 g – 147 g
- Diameter
- 62.7mm – 64.7mm
- Rebound
- From 1,800 height 1,092 – 1292 mm (70% rebound from falling point)
- Rubber content
- 65%
The new NCAA specifications are:
- Color
- Can be white, yellow or orange
- Circumference
- 7 3/4 and 8 inches
- Weight
- 5 and 5 1/2 ounces
- Must be solid rubber
Ball must also be dropped from a height of 72 inches upon floor and needs to bounce at least 43 to 51 inches.
According to the 2015 and 2016 Men’s Lacrosse Rules and Interpretations:
“The ball shall be white, yellow, orange or lime green smooth or slightly textured solid rubber. The ball must meet the current NOCSAE lacrosse ball standard.
” Later, in further defining the required specifications, the document states: “The measurements for the ball shall include the following: The ball shall be of white, yellow, or orange solid rubber. The ball may measure between 7 3/4 and 8 inches in circumference. The ball may weigh between 5 and 5 1/4 ounces in weight.” [1]
Beginning with the 2014 season, all three governing bodies for lacrosse in the United States (US Lacrosse, NFHS, NCAA) have mandated that only balls meeting the NOCSAE ball standard may be used for competition. Balls must be emblazoned with the words “Meets NOCSAE Standard” in order to be considered legal for play by game officials.
Starting by June 2016, all lacrosse balls had to meet the new NOCSAE Standard. [2] for use in official NCAA and NFHS play. Canadian official games require CLA approvals.
History[edit]
Originally known as “stickball”, the earliest lacrosse balls were made from wood and later from buckskins filled with fur.
