NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA KINGS
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On Monday, July 15, the U13-2 Orillia Kings held Orillia’s first Orange Jersey Project Lacrosse game against the Kawartha Fury.
The Orange Jersey Project uses the power of sport to educate young athletes about the true history of the Indian Residential School System, strengthen the path toward Truth and Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and promote the physical and mental wellness of Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth through sport.
Ahead of last Monday’s game, the team was fortunate to participate in a learning session led by Rosanne Irving, who shared her knowledge of Indigenous history and culture, shared about her family’s personal experience with residential schools and educated our players about the Sacred Medicines and the importance of Orange Shirt Day.
The night included special guest speakers, Doug Noganosh, Gary Maracle, and Joe Valliere (@nishlax) who spoke with the players about their involvement with the Creator’s game, and the importance of teamwork and respect for lacrosse. Traditional Indigenous war songs were performed by Sundown and the Rama Children’s Drumming Group prior to the start of the game.
It was a tremendous honour and experience for the team to learn about the Orange Jersey Project and its ties to Truth and Reconciliation. Team Members include Grayson B., Keldon C., Ryan D., Tyler E., Max F., Tyson H., Jack M., Logan M., Marcus O., Joel R., Devin R., Jaxson S., Holden S., Bryson V., Ethan V., and Ethan W.
Thank you to the families, fans, and guest speakers who came to support such an important event.
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