Southeast Woodlands Stickball Summit
For the second time in over 200 years, Indigenous Stickball will be played by Native Nations on traditional Muscogee Land in the heart of Atlanta. Organized by Chickasaw and Choctaw member Addison Karl, in collaboration with Atlanta Beltline, Inc. and Emory University, the Southeast Woodlands Stickball Summit will showcase the history and future of the game to the public.
The inaugural Stickball Summit showcased games between the Muscogee Nation, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the Chickasaw Nation, and the Mississippi Choctaw Nations. (Photo Credit: Dr. Arshley Emilie)
About Stickball Summit
Stickball is one of the oldest sports in North America, historically played by multiple Indigenous Nations.
This second annual event will welcome Native American delegations from Oklahoma, Mississippi, and North Carolina. Following an opening ceremony by the Muscogee Nation, players from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the Chickasaw Nation, and the Mississippi Choctaw Nations will present live exhibition games in the activity field at the Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark.
Spectators are invited to learn more about the history of the game and its evolution through the different styles: Cherokee, Choctaw, and Chickasaw.
To learn more about the Atlanta Beltline's land acknowledgment, click here.
Game Etiquette
Best Practices for Attendees
Stickball is a sport but also has an element of ceremony and politics to it. Please conduct yourself according to these helpful tips:
Be respectful of the culture and customs that are showcased.
Non-native spectators: Please leave any Indigenous regalia, drums, feathers, or face paint at home.
This is an exciting sport; we want you to cheer! But no war whoops or tomahawk chops, please.
Do not go onto the field unless invited.
Feel free to admire from afar the players’ sticks, hair, or personal belongings, but keep your hands to yourself.
Bring a picnic blanket or festival chairs for comfortable seating.
Picnic baskets, snacks, and water are encouraged.
No drugs or alcohol.
Animals must all be leashed.
2025 Summit Details
The second annual summit will take place in spring 2025. Check back closer to the date for more information.
