Here's a breakdown:
* La: The definite article "the" in French.
* Crosse: A French word meaning "cross".
The name likely originated from a game played by indigenous peoples in the Great Lakes region of North America. This game, now known as lacrosse, involved using a long-handled stick with a net at the end, resembling a cross.
Therefore, "La Crosse" is a descriptive name referencing the primary tool used in the game.