Indigenous sport

Indigenous sport can be thought of in two ways: Sport distinctive to Indigenous people, activities rooted in cultural values and beliefs of the different communities, tribes, and nations; Mainstream sport - developed, organized, and played among modern Indigenous communities. For many Indigenous people living on Indigenous territories, reserves, or reservations, sport is an essential activity, a necessary way for communities to maintain kinship ties and promote wellness. Traditional sports like stickball among tribes in the southeast have a deep cultural significance beyond the competition. Indigenous people have also put their own spin on modern sports, transforming basketball into "Rezball". Running can serve a traditional purpose, integrating religious, societal, and cultural ideals, while also providing a platform for mainstream success. The blend of traditional and introduced sports within Indian Country has created a sporting community that is diverse and resilient despite a legacy of trauma premised on the goal of assimilation.