Lacrosse originated as a Native American sport called dehuntshigwa'es but has since evolved significantly. It is now one of the fastest growing sports in the US, particularly at the college level since the 1950s. The creation of plastic stick heads by STX in the mid-20th century facilitated this growth by making the game lighter, cheaper, and faster-paced. Major League Lacrosse was founded in 2001 and has since expanded from 8 to 12 teams across various US cities.

1. A power point presentation by. Chris Horan

2. The National Boom I decided to do this project on lacrosse because it is not only a sport that I play, but also one of my favorite sports to watch and study. Since its college debut in the 1950’s lacrosse has started a boom across the U.S. Also the creation of plastic heads by the Baltimore based company STX® facilitated the growth of lacrosse. The invention of the plastic head reduced the weight and cost of the stick, and allowed for faster passes and game play

3. Origins of Lacrosse Lacrosse was invented by Native Americans . Its name was “ dehuntshigwa'es” in Onodaga ("men hit a rounded object) In early days, players played on pitches roughly one mile wide and games lasted a few days at a time. Instead of rubber composite balls which players today use, Native Americans would use rocks, deerskin, clay and even the heads of their enemies. The name lacrosse is simply a reflection of this term, and perhaps a shorthand for a phrase such as "le jeu de la crosse" (the game of the stick).

4. Today’s Game Unlike our native American counterparts, today’s game is very different. Today’s game is played on a 100 yard field (roughly the same size as a football field). Instead of head and clay, players use a rubber composite ball to allow for more bounce , but less injury. Sticks are made out plastic and aluminum composites instead of wood. And rules are much more tamer and safer, but still very rough and exciting.

5. Professional Leagues With widespread success in the collegiate level, business men created the Major League Lacrosse in 2001. The league started with 8 teams along the eastern coast of the U.S. Today, there are 12 teams. The original 8 and now 4 new teams in Denver, LA, San Francisco and Chicago. There are also plans to create team in St. Louis, Dallas, Miami and Cincinnati. Here is a promotion for the MLL

6. Continued Growth and Future As a result of the success of college and pro leagues, lacrosse has continued to grow across the U.S. at a record pace. It is the fastest growing sport in the U.S. and is amassing a huge fan base across not only the country, but the entire world.