The men’s stickball championship game at the World Series of Stickball hosted by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians ended in intense competition and multiple injuries. Stickball, a traditional game played by Indigenous peoples for centuries, is known for its physicality and endurance, with players using hickory sticks and a woven leather ball.
The game, referred to as ishtaboli in the Choctaw language, is a high-contact sport with no timeouts or protective gear. Despite the physical nature of the game, players leave it all on the field without taking any hits personally. Stickball is a central part of Choctaw culture, with players starting at a young age and tournaments attracting players from nearby communities.
The men’s championship game saw defending champions, Koni Hata, facing off against Pearl River in a highly physical match. Despite injuries and penalties for fielding too many players, Pearl River emerged victorious, claiming the ceremonial drum presented by Chief Cyrus Ben.
In the women’s championship game, Bok Cito Ohoyo defeated Koni Hata Ohoyo in sudden death, with Leia Phillips scoring the winning goal. The youth tournaments held the night before the championships showcase the next generation of stickball players, with children playing with the same passion and intensity as the adults.
The World Series of Stickball is a time-honored tradition for the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, showcasing the skill, athleticism, and cultural significance of the game. Despite the injuries and physicality, stickball remains a beloved sport that brings communities together to celebrate their heritage and competitive spirit.
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