lacrosse, (French: “the crosier”) Outdoor goal-scoring sport played with sticks called crosses. A crosse has a long handle and a triangular head with a mesh pouch for catching, carrying, and throwing a hard rubber ball. The object of the game is to sling the ball into an opponent’s goal (for one point). French settlers in Canada adapted the modern game from an ancient American Indian activity (baggataway) that was at once sport, combat training, and mystical ceremony. It became an organized sport in the late 19th century. Modern teams have 10 players. The game is divided into four periods of 15 minutes each. Lacrosse is especially popular as a collegiate sport and is played by both men and women.