Snow Snake has begun to be revitalized and is coming to MTU soon. Gooniikaa-Ginebig Ataadiiwin, also known as “Snow Snake,” was once one of the most popular games in North America within Tribal Nations.
Biskaabiiyaang Collective, formerly known as the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES), is introducing the game to MTU. Executive Board member, Jonathan Oleson, stated, “This event is open to anyone, if people don’t have the equipment, there will be some provided on site and to show up with an open mind”. The event is happening Friday, Feb. 7, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Upper Soccer Field located next to the SDC.
For those who have never heard of Snow Snake, it is a traditional game played in winter on ice or snow by several Tribal Nations. The only equipment needed for the game is a snow snake, which is a wooden pole that is carved out and weighted to slide over ice and snow. The objective of the game is to slide the snow snake as far as possible, which can determine points if keeping score. The track which the snow snake glides over is specially prepared, depending on the conditions. Traditionally, greases were added to the snow snake and were often kept family-guarded secrets. The game is a good test of strength and skill paired with good technique.
There are a few different variations to play Snow Snake. The track can be made out of snow by shoveling a lane for the track and putting water in the trench. Additionally, the track can be on ice and it is prepared by shoveling off the snow straight lane for a few hundred yards. Team sizes can consist of any number of members, as long as there’s an equal amount of players on each team.
Points are scored correlated to the furthest throws, depending on the amount of players. The snow snake itself typically ranges anywhere from one to six feet long. A good snow snake has a flat bottom, a rounded nose, and a polymer finish. This protects the nose and decreases friction. A notch is cut out at the tail to help control the direction and a lead weight is added to the head to help increase momentum.
