KANIENKEHAKA KRUNCH - DICK'S SPORTING GOODS TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS RISING STARS TEAM PREVIEW
(December 16, 2008)
Location: Akwesasne Mohawk Nation
Head Coach: Garrett Cree
Established: 2008
Colors: Black & white
Qualified at: Champion, Beach Blast Lacrosse Tournament – rising stars division
Lacrosse, the oldest sport in North America, was created by Native American tribes for conflict resolution and the training of young warriors. In January, the Kanienkehaka Krunch from the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation will be the first Native American team ever to compete in the Dick’s Sporting Goods Tournament of Champions.
“It means a lot to be the only Native American team,” says freshman defenseman Kanatillo Adams (Salmon River Central H.S.). “We take it seriously.”
“We are representing our heritage, our community, and our very small town,” says sophomore goalie Trey Adams (Salmon River).
To the Krunch players and coaches, lacrosse is tradition and a part of their lifestyle; it is more than just a sport.
“Lacrosse is who they are,” says head coach Garret Cree. “They believe how they play defines them as people.”
“It’s our medicine game,” says Trey. “When someone is sick, it heals them. We play for our ancestors and with a clear mind.”
Krunch players have been surrounded by lacrosse their whole lives. Cousins Kanatillo and Trey Adams’ great-grandfather, Louis Sunday, is in the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame ('97 inductee).
“He was one of the best players ever,” says Trey. “We know he is looking down watching his great-grandchildren play.”
As for the players, their bonds extend further than the field.
“We have played together since we were four,” says Kanatillo. “A lot of the players on the team are family: cousins and brothers.”
At the national championship, the Krunch will step onto the field as lacrosse players, just like their ancestors, playing to better define themselves.
“We want to go down there and win,” says Trey.
The Krunch will take on the Copperheads (Ga.), Chicago Select (Ill.), and the Tampa Bay Fire (Fl.) in the Matrix DS division of Toyota Pool Play at the Dick’s Sporting Goods Tournament of Champions. Click here for the complete national championship schedule.
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