Why did the Cherokee call their version of lacrosse the “little brother of war”?

The Cherokee referred to their version of lacrosse as the “little brother of war” because the game served as excellent training for combat.1

The sport required immense endurance and the ability to bear significant injuries with fortitude, mirroring the physical and mental demands of warfare. Historically, the game was much rougher than its modern counterpart; players often sought to disable as many opponents as possible with their sticks before focusing on scoring goals. Because of these intense characteristics, the game was deeply integrated into tribal life, often functioning as a mystic ceremony preceded by complex rituals and solemn dances.1