With a long history dating back centuries, lacrosse is famously the oldest sport in the Americas. Its roots can be traced to both Native American tribes and the First Nations people of Canada, who developed what they called “The Creator’s Game” as more of a spiritual ritual. These early events would feature teams engaging en masse in symbolic warfare for days on end. European colonists would adapt the game and introduce modifications that have led the sport into the modern era, with hotbeds springing up specifically in Atlantic Canada, New York and Maryland. As it spread across the English-speaking world, lacrosse gained immense popularity and the need to preserve the game’s history and honor arose. By 1957, the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame was established in Baltimore for this exact purpose, moving to its current home in the suburb of Sparks in 2016.

Located on the bottom floor of USA Lacrosse’s headquarters, the Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates lacrosse’s legacy via interactive exhibits, artifacts and informative panels that lead visitors through the past and into the present. Guests are immersed in the sights, sounds, and stories that have defined this unique game over the generations, with audio and video recorded by indigenous people guiding them through the museum. Display cases feature game-worn jerseys, classic wooden sticks and trophies from tournaments all around the globe.

The centerpiece of the space is – of course – the Hall of Fame, a long wall of placards that honor the legends who have left a lasting mark on the sport they loved. Close to 500 players, coaches, officials and other contributors have been inducted into the Hall since its creation in 1957. From pioneering Native Americans to modern-day stars, each inductee’s accomplishments can be explored in detail on the accompanying interactive screen.

The administrative building in which the Hall of Fame is located looms over Tierney Field, the adjoining lacrosse stadium that’s primarily used for low-level tournaments and occasional NCAA-sanctioned events. All across the grounds, large bronze statues and beautiful landscaping are present, honoring players and organizations that have helped shape the sport. One statue in particular is dedicated to lacrosse’s Native American origins and features a player decked out in war paint and typical Native dress. A 9/11 memorial, molded out of steel salvaged from Ground Zero and recognizing members of the lacrosse family who perished on that fateful day, also stands out.

For lacrosse fans, the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame is more than just a museum – it is a heartfelt destination that perfectly captures the spirit of this meaningful game. No matter your predisposition, a visit here is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the sport of lacrosse.

National Lacrosse Hall of Fame: 2 Loveton Cir, Sparks, MD 21152
https://www.usalacrosse.com/national-lacrosse-hall-fame-and-museum