Honors Accumulate for Lacrosse Documentary

The accolades continue to accumulate for a documentary about the game of lacrosse and its cultural significance, with an assist going to Syracuse University’s Office of Electronic Media Communications.

“The Game of Life, Heart and Spirit of the Onondaga” was already nominated by the New York chapter of the National Academy of Arts and Sciences for an Emmy. Now the film is up for an award being given at the 10th Red Nation Film Festival and Awards Show, which is presented by Comcast/NBC Universal.

“The Game of Life, Heart and Spirit of the Onondaga” explores the cultural and spiritual significance of lacrosse to the people of the Onondaga Nation. Lacrosse, known as the creator’s game by the Onondagas, has its origins deep within the customs and beliefs of the Six Nations people.

The documentary was filmed on location at the Onondaga Nation, which also produced it in cooperation with the Office of Electronic Media Communications at Syracuse University, with the help of Stu Lisson and Meg Lynch.

Interviews with players, tribal leaders and coaches help tell the story of the sport that has grown to span the world. The Onondaga Nation’s involvement with the feature film “Crooked Arrows” is highlighted, as well as its connection with Syracuse University through the Haudenosaunee Promise program. The Haudenosaunee Promise is a unique opportunity that offers full tuition scholarships to Six Nations students to attend SU.

Neal Powless, a three-time All American in lacrosse and assistant director of the Native Student Program, co-produced the documentary, which is up for Best Documentary Short honors at the Red Nation Film Festival. The winners will be announced during the show, which takes place November 11.