Lacrosse Canada proudly recognizes Faith Keeper Michael Kanatakeron Mitchell of the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation as the recipient of the 2026 Alfie Jacques Ambassador Award.
A lifelong steward of the Creator’s Game, Mitchell has dedicated decades to advancing and protecting the cultural, spiritual, and community foundations of lacrosse. His work reflects a deep commitment to ensuring the game continues to be understood not only as sport, but as medicine, rooted in tradition, responsibility, and connection.
Mitchell’s leadership spans generations and communities. From his role as Grand Chief of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, to co-founding the North American Indian Traveling College, to establishing the Akwesasne Lacrosse Hall of Fame, his impact has been both enduring and far-reaching. His contributions have helped elevate Indigenous voices and uphold the origins of the game at every level.
A long-time First Nations representative within Lacrosse Canada, the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame, and the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame, Mitchell’s service to the sport in Canada has been profound. In recognition of his contributions, he was previously awarded the Lester B. Pearson Award.
Through mentorship, education, and leadership, Mitchell continues to guide players, leaders, and communities with humility and purpose.
Lacrosse Canada congratulates Michael Kanatakeron Mitchell on this well-deserved recognition. His lifelong dedication to the Creator’s Game and to Indigenous communities, as he represents the very best of what lacrosse stands for.
The 2026 Alfie Jacques Ambassador Award will be presented on September 11 in Syracuse, New York.
The Alfie Jacques Ambassador Award has been created to keep the legacy of the Onondaga Stick maker alive, to promote the game’s sacred Indigenous roots, and to honour members of the larger community who share Alfie’s love of lacrosse and his commitment to its growth. For more information: www.alfieaward.com
About Lacrosse Canada
Lacrosse Canada is the national governing body of Canada’s National Summer Sport. Lacrosse Canada is responsible for the governance, promotion, and development of lacrosse in all its forms across the country. Working with its Members and partners, Lacrosse Canada supports participation, excellence, and leadership in the sport from community to national team levels.
For more information, please contact:
Kealan Pilon
Communications Coordinator
Lacrosse Canada
kealan@lacrosse.ca
