Kapawe’no First Nation – The Winter Festival on day two, enhanced by the involvement of Spirit North, turned into a remarkable event of our ancestral ways and active participation. Central to the festival were traditional Nêhiyawak and Blackfoot games, which were not only a source of fun but also a means of connecting students to Nêhiyawak miyo Pimachihowin.
One of the highlights was the game of Double Ball, a traditional activity with profound cultural roots in both Nêhiyawak and Blackfoot Nations. Played predominantly by women, this game, resembling modern lacrosse, required high physical endurance and strategic team play. The equipment and rules varied regionally, but generally, it involved two small balls connected by a leather thong, caught and thrown using a curved stick. The aim was to score points by hitting a target in the opponent’s area, with an intriguing field length that could stretch up to a mile. The game’s importance goes beyond mere physical exercise, historically serving as a symbol of strength and empowerment, particularly among women.
Additionally, the festival featured Back Tag, an engaging and cooperative game that highlights the importance of agility and strategy. Other games like Shinny, akin to hockey, and Corralling the Buffalo, emphasizing teamwork and strategy, were also part of the festival’s activities, offering a broad view of the rich sporting traditions of the Nêhiyawak and Blackfoot Nation.
“The day was a celebration of traditional games great learning experience. Spirit North’s involvement helped to underscore the importance of such cultural exchanges”, said Mr Fred Mack.
The festival’s success is a testament to the enduring appeal and relevance of these traditional games. It was a day of joyful competition, cultural enrichment, and community spirit, honoring the teachings of Love, Respect, Courage, Wisdom, Humility, Honesty, and Truth, which are the cornerstone of Nêhiyawak miyo Pimachihowin.
“Their work in empowering our youth through sport and play is pivotal in fostering both physical well-being and cultural pride”, stated Mr Mack.
For more information on Spirit North and their mission to engage indigenous youth through sports, visit their website at Spirit North.
Sources: FNMI Games for Physical Education on Cree and Blackfoot games (fnmigamesforpe.weebly.com), U.S. National Park Service on Double Ball (nps.gov).
About Spirit North
Spirit North plays a vital role in transforming the lives of Indigenous youth through sport and play. This national charitable organization focuses on empowering children and youth to learn, grow, and thrive by connecting them to sport, play, the outdoors, and the land. Their activities and programs are designed to develop leadership skills, improve health and wellness, and inspire participants to realize their full potential.
Their approach is holistic, aiming to improve the lives of youth and their communities by focusing on education, community, and health. In partnership with schools and educators, Spirit North programs support academic outcomes, attendance, and encourage the development of innovative curricula around activities, enhancing learning experiences in areas such as leadership and language. Community engagement is also a key component, involving elders, family members, Indigenous advisors, local educators, and community leaders to build involvement, capacity, and sustainability.
The health aspect of Spirit North’s methodology allows children and youth to experience healthy outdoor activities, promoting physical health as well as increased feelings of confidence, joy, belonging, and resilience. This method has shown significant positive impacts, with a majority of students reporting that the activities made them feel good and helped them feel better emotionally.
Their activities span across seasons, including cross-country skiing, mountain biking, canoeing, and land-based games. By providing these diverse opportunities, Spirit North ensures engagement and excitement among participants, enhancing their connection to the land and their communities.
Founded by Beckie Scott, an Olympic gold and silver medalist in cross-country skiing, Spirit North is built on the belief that sport holds the power to change lives, transform communities, inspire individuals, heal, and teach. The organization’s impact extends beyond the youth, benefiting volunteers, family members, and entire communities through its inclusive and dynamic programs.
For more detailed information on their programs, partnerships, and impact, visit Spirit North’s website here. https://www.spiritnorthxc.ca/
Last modified: March 28, 2024
