Everyone knows the best way to really learn about anything is to go back to its roots- where it all began.
That is why, when it comes to school sports tours focused on lacrosse - the best place to head is New York! School sports tours with a basis in lacrosse are, of course, widely available throughout North America, with the U.
S.
East Coast and Canada being the most popular destinations.
But there is nothing like coming to the place where the first European settlers first learned about what is considered the original native American team sport - and got hooked.
And for good reason; the game, which has been considered the best of basketball, hockey and soccer put together, is a fast-moving, exciting event requiring skill, timing, and sportsmanship.
Lacrosse History School sports tours to New York will introduce students to the origins of the sport.
Native Americans developed it to resolve conflict, for healing therapy, and also as a means to develop strength and virility in their young braves.
In fact, a history of lacrosse mentions its use in Native American religious ceremonies as well as war preparations.
There are tales of games using balls of deerskin, stone and clay that lasted for days, over lacrosse fields measuring in the miles and teams involving hundreds of men.
While the game has certainly travelled a long way around the world (as can be seen in the participation of a record number of nations at the recent European Championships), going back to where it all began - New York - adds a whole new light and gives student athletes a renewed appreciation for this fascinating game.
Lacrosse Around the World and Back While lacrosse has always been played regionally - mainly in the states of Florida, Colorado, Texas, New York and the mid-Atlantic states - its growing popularity has spread to areas such as North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and the mid-west.
One of the fastest-growing team sports in the USA (and now Europe) there is now a record number of high school lacrosse players.
For teams on school sports tours to New York, this is certainly good news; there will be no lack of competition for friendly matches and invitational games in the area.
New York, New York The New York Lacrosse Club, matches with various youth lacrosse leagues in the tri-state area, and a visit to the home of the New York Titans are some of the stops that can be arranged in New York.
Training sessions involving local lacrosse expert coaches can give young lacrosse athletes a new perspective on the sport.
To make the most of an unforgettable trip to an unforgettable city, however, a school trip to New York should always include a good measure of sightseeing as well.
The city has a host of attractions such as historical and archaeological tours, Central Park, and of course, the many museums.
One thing is for sure - school sports trips to New York are definitely educational, and not just about sports!