Deeply rooted in Native American history, the sport dates back to as early as the 12th century when indigenous people played it for community and religious purposes. It was and still is viewed by many as a gift from the Creator; a game intertwined with enjoyment and healing purposes as the medicine game.
Lacrosse style religious and/or combative events were played in many different parts of North America.
Two of these, "Baggataway" and "Tewaarathon" are perhaps the most documented with Baggataway becoming a game with between 60 and 100 players per side.