Miami Tribe of Oklahoma strengthens youth connection through traditional lacrosse

The Miami Tribe of Oklahoma has revitalized peekitahaminki, a traditional Myaamia form of lacrosse, as a central activity for youth development and cultural connection, according to ICT. Over the past two decades, the sport has become a regular feature at community gatherings, serving as both an athletic activity and a tool for language use and cultural learning.

According to ICT, tribal citizens including George Ironstrack helped reintroduce the game by adapting it for inclusive community play and emphasizing use of the Myaamia language during gameplay. The revitalization expanded in 2015 with a renewed focus on traditional Great Lakes–style wooden lacrosse sticks. In 2019, the tribe held its first game played entirely with wooden sticks in more than 200 years. Tribal leaders and educators said peekitahaminki provides youth with a welcoming space to build confidence, strengthen cultural identity and engage with their language and community.