Washington, DC- The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) was proud to be a part of the 14th Annual Tewaaraton Award Ceremony. The event honors the top male and female college lacrosse players in the United States. This year marks the first time that Native Americans received college lacrosse's most distinguished honor.

Albany teammates and brothers, Miles and Lyle Thompson, became the first players to share the award. The Foundation said the committee’s vote for the Onondaga Nation brothers was unanimous. The Tewaaraton Award is awarded by the Tewaaraton Foundation that celebrates excellence in lacrosse, recognizes the Native heritage of the game, and gives back in a meaningful way to Native communities.

NCAI President Brian Cladoosby, said “We are proud of these young Native leaders and congratulate them and the Tewaaraton Foundation on this important award. The Thompson brothers have inspired Indian Country – and young people everywhere – with their hard work and dedication. It’s a great day when Native Americans are honored, especially for excellence in a sport built on the innovation and strength of Native peoples that is now played all around the world. Miles and Lyle are role models for other Native young people and embody the spirit behind the national My Brother’s Keeper initiative.” The initiative, launched earlier this year by the White House, strives to give young men of color the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Read more about The Tewaaraton Foundation..

Read more about My Brother’s Keeper Initiative.