Students from across the CDSBEO and Ahkwesáhsne Mohawk School recently came together for the inaugural Tewa’a:rathon Friendship Games, a unique opportunity to build new relationships, learn about Indigenous culture, and experience the game of lacrosse. 

The event was organized through a partnership between the Native North American Travelling College and the CDSBEO Indigenous Education Team. Participating schools included St. Mary’s-St. Cecilia Catholic School, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School, St. Francis Xavier Catholic High School, St. Finnan’s Catholic School, St. Jude Catholic School, Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School, St. Joseph’s Catholic Secondary School, and Ahkwesáhsne Mohawk School. 

The Friendship Games took place over two days, with the first event hosted at St. Francis Xavier Catholic High School in Hammond on May 28, followed by a second gathering on June 4 at the A’nowara’kó Arena in Akwesasne. 

Created for Grade 7 and 8 students, the Tewa’a:rathon Friendship Games were designed to help students build connections before transitioning to secondary school. The events also provided an opportunity to learn about the cultural significance of lacrosse, known as the Creator’s Game. 

For many Indigenous Peoples, lacrosse is much more than a sport. It is played as an offering to the Creator and has long been used to bring people and communities together. 

The CDSBEO extends its gratitude to the Native North American Travelling College, the Indigenous Education Team, participating schools, staff, and community partners who helped make this memorable event possible. 

The Board looks forward to continuing this initiative and creating more opportunities for students to learn, connect, and grow together. 

If you’re interested in having your school’s Grade 7/8 students participate in next year’s event, please reach out to CDSBEO Indigenous Education Consultant, Colby Demerchant, at Colby.demerchant@cdsbeo.on.ca