Alf Jacques

[3] He began his craftsmanship training at the age of five, learning from his grandmother how to make black ash wooden splint baskets.

He additionally was known for his environmental stewardship, regularly planting hickory nuts to ensure future generations would have access to the necessary materials for stick-making.

[8] In 1974, Jacques played as a goalie for the Syracuse Stingers in the National Lacrosse League, before the team moved to Quebec the following year.

[5] From 2004 to 2010 Jacques led the Onondaga Redhawks as a coach and general manager, culminating in a Presidents Cup championship in 2010 with a 13–1 season record.

[10] For nearly twenty years over his career, Jacques gave an annual lecture and demonstration of his work at Syracuse University for students studying religion and sports.

[8] Examples of Jacques' sticks are held on exhibit at the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame and Museum in Sparks, Maryland.