Why is lacrosse called 'lacrosse'?

Name Origin:

Well, in french, lacrosse translates to 'the crosse': la - the, crosse - cross. Lacrosse was made by indigenous North American communities. But one day, French missionaries noticed the resemblance of the stick used by indigenous tribes, to a bishop's staff, known in French as 'la crosse' because of the holy cross on the staff, hence its name.

Game Origin:

The game was invented by indigenous North American tribes as early as the 12th century. This sport was deeply meaningful used for spiritual healing, settling disputes, and often deemed as a gift to their gods. Their sticks were made out of hickory, the nets made of deer sinew, and the ball often made of deerskin. When French missionaries arrived, they documented the first game in the 1600's, and as previously mentioned, it was named 'lacrosse' because of the close resemblance to a bishops staff. And in the mid 1800's, Canadian William George Beers, modified the rules, transitioning to the modern rules, making smaller teams, and using rubber balls.

How popular is it?:

Lacrosse gained widespread popularity after William George Beers modified the rules.