Dee Channer & Marshall Powless

Bio:

Lacrosse Cultures & Connections (Indigenous Origins & Perspectives) 

As a Coordinator at Rising Stars, Marshall Powless (Six Nations of the Grand - Turtle Clan) coordinates and delivers programs in support of the active engagement and education of youth, students, and community. As Rising Stars' L.E.A.D. Instructor & Facilitator of Indigenous Education programs, workshops and special events, Marshall delivers cultural programs and workshops for a growing list of partnering schools, organizations and educational institutions across both the athletics and education divisions. Marshall specializes in facilitating Indigenous Education programs and instruction both on and off reserve. Marshall is a former professional Lacrosse player with the National Lacrosse League (NLL). He is a teacher of the Mohawk Language at Six Nations Polytech, and serves as a coach and mentor for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth. 

Active Cultural Connections - Indigenous Games  

As a Director at Rising Stars, Dee Channer (Cree Nation of Waswanipi)  coordinated and managed programs in support of youth, students, and community. As Rising Stars' most senior programs instructor & facilitator, Dee delivers Indigenous Education programs and workshops for a growing list of partnering schools, organizations and educational institutions across both the athletics and education divisions. Dee specializes in facilitating Indigenous education programs and instruction both on and off reserve. Dee is a certified teacher, coach and mentor. She currently teaches in the Waterloo District School Board and also serves as the Head Coach for the Conestoga College Women’s Basketball team.

Workshop I: Lacrosse Cultures & Connections (Indigenous Origins & Perspectives) 

Lacrosse Cultures & Connections is an active workshop designed to raise awareness about the Indigenous origins of the sport of Lacrosse, while promoting sport development and exploring the history of this cultural tradition that has become an international sport. Through respectful explorations and the creative integration of lacrosse skills and drills, in the process of their participation students will develop pride, understanding and awareness of Indigenous cultures, traditions, contributions, and achievements in and through what was originally called ‘The Creator’s Game’.    

Workshop II: Active Cultural Connections - Indigenous Games 

Life Skills through Indigenous Games is a unique workshop designed to raise awareness about Indigenous cultures through the promotion of healthy active living and the practices of traditional games. Students participate and have fun, while exploring traditional games and challenges, and enhancing knowledge and understanding of First Nation, Metis & Inuit cultures In the process of their active participation, students will develop pride, understanding and awareness of Indigenous cultures, traditions, contributions and achievements.