On Sunday, April 19th, there was a special celebration of art, culture, and heritage during the Roc Knighthawks Native American Heritage Game.
“The Native American Heritage Game is an important opportunity for our organization to recognize and celebrate the deep cultural roots of the Creator’s Game,” said Knighthawks President and General Manager Dan Carey. “As a franchise proudly owned by the Seneca Nation, we take great pride in honoring the traditions and heritage of those who gave us this game. It is also meaningful to recognize and celebrate local Native American dancers, artists, and veterans whose contributions help make this evening a special and significant part of our season.”
Prior to the game, members of the team and head staff were presented with beaded medallions made by Mig Montour, with the assistance of Kathalene “Kath” Nephew, with each player receiving a medallion customized with their jersey number, and Shantel Burning made beaded lanyards for the administrative and training staff. The Seneca Youth Dancers from the Allegany Territory presented a dance exhibition in the concourse and danced at halftime along with the Gëjóhgwa Group. A special Artisan Village featured traditional wooden stick makers Snooky and Darren Brooks, a Gasto:wä’ presentation led by Tekahentake Regis, and beaders Mig Montour, Kathalene “Kath” Nephew, and Shantel Burning.
American Legion Iroquois Post 1587 presented the colors before the game, with the Hodínöhšö:ni:h anthem sung by Heath Hill and members of Gëjóhgwa. Leland Hemlock, decorated U.S. Army Veteran, was presented with a Quilt of Valor, which is a handmade quilt presented to veterans and service members for their service and sacrifice. Cattaraugus Councillor Todd Gates performed the ceremonial face off. Special Native American Heritage Game Day jerseys were designed by Seneca artist Randee Spruce of the Allegany Territory, her design excitingly calling back to the beloved purple and teal colorway. An auction of game-worn merch and jerseys raised money for the Allegany Arrows and Newtown Minor Lacrosse teams, as well as the Seneca Youth Dancers.
We are honored to share these experiences with fans, friends, and family with the Knighthawks. Together, we’re bringing the Creator’s Game to its roots and carving a path forward with Indigenous leadership at the helm.
The Knighthawks ended their regular season against the Georgia Swarm 17 to 12, Georgia.
