Oren Lyons Jr. and Roy Simmons Jr. have been recognized with the Alfie Jacques Ambassador Award for their efforts in preserving the Native origins of lacrosse and educating future generations about its connection to Indigenous communities.
The award, named after master stick maker Alfie Jacques, aims to honor individuals who promote the game’s sacred Indigenous roots. According to a press release from the award board, it seeks to “keep the legacy of the Onondaga stick maker alive” and acknowledges those who share Jacques’ passion for lacrosse.
Lyons and Simmons formed a lifelong friendship while playing for Syracuse University’s men’s lacrosse team from 1955-58. They both received multiple All-American honors during their time with the Orange and contributed to an undefeated season in 1957.
Lyons, one of Syracuse’s first Native American students, earned a degree in fine arts and was inducted into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1992. He is also known for his environmental advocacy as a Faithkeeper of the Turtle Clan of the Onondaga Nation. In 1983, he co-founded the Iroquois Nationals lacrosse team.
Simmons maintained a close relationship with Jacques, often inviting him to speak about lacrosse’s history at Syracuse University. As a coach, Simmons made history by winning five national championships and was inducted into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1991.
The press release highlights that “[their] lives and legacies stand as profound representations of what the game of lacrosse is about.” It acknowledges their roles as advocates alongside Jacques for decades.
The awards will be presented during the Wooden Stick Festival in Syracuse from September 12-14, 2025.
For more details on past recipients or information regarding this award, visit alfieaward.com.
