Officially sanctioned by the Grand Council of Chiefs to represent the Haudenosaunee (or Iroquois) in international lacrosse competition, the Iroquois Nationals Lacrosse Team represents a sovereign nation in world competition. The team — which has won numerous medals and awards — has successfully engaged state departments, embassies, and consulates around the world to recognize Iroquois sovereignty. Team members travel using Haudenosaunee passports and the team has created a corps of Iroquois ambassadors that builds international goodwill and educates fellow athletes, government officials, and the public about the Iroquois–and their role as founders of the sport.