Albion, Alma WLAX play first lacrosse contest on Mackinac Island

Photo courtesy of Albion Women's Lacrosse

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. – Over the weekend, the Albion College women's lacrosse team – in conjunction with Alma College – played in what is believed to be the first documented lacrosse game on the island. The teams participated in a fall scrimmage against each other, while spending time exploring the island, leading to a "top five lacrosse experience of a lifetime."

Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the country, but has Indigenous origins. With many Indigenous tribes and historical markers on the island, the teams were able to learn more about how their sport started and by whom.
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"I cannot thank Alma and the people of the island enough," said Albion head coach, Emily DiRado. "They spoiled us."

Sarah Dehring, the Alma Athletic Director, has roots tying her to Mackinac Island. She was instrumental in allowing both this event, and the Briton and Scot volleyball programs in August to participate in Clash on the Mac – a similar scrimmage-type event.

"Sarah's connections and AJ's [Ashley Johnson, Alma head coach] organization made it very memorable. It was special for the ladies to learn and honor the history of our sport," added DiRado.

With fall season wrapping up, Albion women's lacrosse will continue to prepare for the upcoming 2025 season after a fourth place finish in the MIAA a season ago. The season begins on Feb. 22 at Siena Heights University.

Learn more about the origins of lacrosse

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