Clay Scanlan and Tehoka Nanticoke, two celebrated lacrosse players, are proudly honoring their Native American heritage through an upcoming event, Native American Heritage Night, hosted by the Bandits in partnership with Seneca Resorts & Casinos. Set to take place this Saturday, the night promises to highlight the rich cultural traditions of their communities.
Integral to this celebration are the special jerseys designed by Scanlan, with creative input from his brother-in-law, Connor Lyons. These jerseys carry profound cultural significance and reflect important aspects of Native American identity.
Among the notable design elements featured on the jerseys are:
– The Dust Fan Belt, a wampum belt symbolizing the unity of the five nations: Seneca, Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, and Cayuga. The Tuscarora Nation joined later in 1722, emphasizing this history of collaboration.
– The Hiawatha Belt, located on the sleeve of the jersey, also signifies the alliance of the Haudenosaunee, underscoring the interconnectedness of these nations.
– Unique representations of feathers, which denote tribal identity based on their angles and numbers, further deepening the cultural connection.
– The Haudenosaunee Flag on the back serves as a proud emblem of Scanlan’s heritage.
Clay Scanlan, who comes from Cattaraugus Territory in Irving, New York, is a dedicated member of the Seneca Nation. His connection to his roots is strong; he frequently visits local longhouses and cherishes a legacy of competitive family lacrosse games, having grown up in a large sports-oriented family.
Tehoka Nanticoke, representing the Mohawk Nation, has a compelling journey shaped by his family’s influence. His love for lacrosse began with lessons from his grandparents and older brother. Nanticoke gained recognition as the top recruit in the Inside Lacrosse rankings in 2017, further testament to his skill and dedication to the game.
Lacrosse holds a deep spiritual significance in Native American culture, often referred to as the Medicine Game, symbolizing healing and joy. Nanticoke encapsulates this spirit, stating, “I play the game for a reason. The game is medicine for our people.” Both players embody this philosophy, bringing their passion and commitment to the field.
As Native American Heritage Night approaches, Scanlan and Nanticoke express their enthusiasm for wearing the special jerseys, which will allow them to celebrate their heritage alongside fellow Native Americans. This event serves not only as a showcase of athletic prowess but also as a poignant reminder of the cultural legacy rooted in lacrosse and the importance of community celebration.