How do custom lacrosse head designs impact player performance and team spirit. What are the latest trends in lacrosse head customization. How can players create unique designs that reflect their personality on the field.
The Art of Lacrosse Head Customization
Lacrosse, a sport deeply rooted in Native American traditions, has evolved significantly over the years. One of the most exciting developments in recent times is the rise of custom lacrosse head designs. These personalized creations not only allow players to express their individuality but also contribute to team spirit and potentially enhance performance on the field.
Custom lacrosse heads have become a canvas for artistic expression, with players and designers pushing the boundaries of creativity. From intricate patterns to bold color combinations, these unique designs are transforming the look of the game.
Why Customize Lacrosse Heads?
Customizing lacrosse heads serves multiple purposes:
- Personal expression: Players can showcase their personality and style
- Team identity: Custom designs can reinforce team colors and logos
- Improved visibility: Distinctive patterns can make it easier to track the ball
- Psychological edge: A unique design may boost confidence and intimidate opponents
Popular Techniques for Lacrosse Head Customization
Several methods are employed to create eye-catching lacrosse head designs:
- Dyeing: The most common technique, involving immersing the head in dye solutions
- Hydro dipping: Creating complex patterns through water transfer printing
- Airbrushing: Allowing for detailed, multi-colored designs
- Vinyl wrapping: Applying pre-printed designs for a uniform look
- 3D printing: Incorporating unique textures and patterns directly into the head’s structure
Each method offers distinct advantages, and skilled artists often combine techniques to achieve stunning results.
The Rise of Professional Customization Services
As the demand for custom lacrosse heads has grown, so too has the number of professional customization services. These businesses employ skilled artists who can bring players’ visions to life, often using advanced techniques and high-quality materials to ensure durability and vibrancy.
Trending Designs in Lacrosse Head Customization
The world of lacrosse head customization is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging regularly. Some popular design themes include:
- National and state flags
- Animal prints and mascots
- Abstract geometric patterns
- Camouflage and military-inspired designs
- Retro and vintage aesthetics
- Pop culture references
These themes often incorporate team colors and personal elements to create truly unique designs that resonate with players and fans alike.
The Impact of Social Media on Lacrosse Head Design
Social media platforms, particularly TikTok and Instagram, have played a significant role in popularizing custom lacrosse head designs. Artists and players showcase their creations, inspiring others and driving innovation in the field. The viral nature of these platforms has led to rapid dissemination of new ideas and techniques.
DIY Lacrosse Head Customization: Tips and Tricks
For players looking to personalize their lacrosse heads at home, there are several approaches to consider:
- Start with a clean, white head for the best results
- Use high-quality dyes specifically designed for plastics
- Experiment with resist techniques to create patterns
- Allow ample drying time between colors
- Seal the design with a clear protective coat for longevity
While DIY customization can be rewarding, it’s important to note that it requires patience and practice to achieve professional-looking results.
Safety Considerations in Lacrosse Head Customization
When customizing lacrosse heads, it’s crucial to prioritize safety:
- Ensure all materials used are non-toxic and safe for skin contact
- Avoid alterations that could compromise the structural integrity of the head
- Be aware of league regulations regarding equipment modifications
- Test the customized head thoroughly before using it in competition
The Future of Lacrosse Head Design
As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative approaches to lacrosse head customization. Some potential developments include:
- Smart heads with integrated performance tracking
- Customizable texture patterns for improved ball control
- Eco-friendly, biodegradable materials for sustainable designs
- Augmented reality apps for virtual design previews
These advancements could revolutionize not only the aesthetics of the sport but also its gameplay and environmental impact.
The Role of Custom Heads in Professional Lacrosse
Professional lacrosse leagues have embraced the trend of custom head designs, recognizing their appeal to fans and potential for marketing. Many pro players now sport unique designs that reflect their personal brand or team identity, further fueling interest in customization at all levels of the sport.
Balancing Form and Function in Lacrosse Head Design
While the visual appeal of custom lacrosse heads is undeniable, it’s essential to maintain a balance between aesthetics and performance. Designers and players must consider factors such as:
- Weight distribution and balance
- Flexibility and durability of materials
- Compatibility with different playing styles
- Adherence to official regulations
The most successful custom designs enhance both the look and functionality of the lacrosse head, giving players an edge on the field without sacrificing performance.
The Psychology of Custom Lacrosse Head Designs
The impact of custom lacrosse heads extends beyond mere aesthetics. Research suggests that personalized equipment can have psychological benefits for athletes, including:
- Increased confidence and self-expression
- Enhanced sense of ownership and connection to the sport
- Improved focus and motivation during practice and games
- Strengthened team cohesion when designs incorporate team elements
These psychological factors can contribute to improved performance and overall enjoyment of the sport.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage Through Lacrosse Head Design
Lacrosse’s Native American origins provide a rich cultural backdrop for custom head designs. Many players and teams use customization as an opportunity to honor these roots and celebrate diverse cultural heritages. Designs may incorporate:
- Traditional Native American patterns and symbols
- Representations of local landscapes and wildlife
- Historical references to the sport’s evolution
- Elements from players’ own cultural backgrounds
These culturally inspired designs not only create visually striking lacrosse heads but also serve as a means of education and cultural appreciation within the lacrosse community.
The Role of Custom Heads in Youth Lacrosse Development
In youth lacrosse programs, custom head designs can play a significant role in player development and engagement:
- Encouraging creativity and self-expression
- Fostering a sense of pride and ownership in equipment
- Providing incentives for skill improvement and achievement
- Creating opportunities for team bonding activities
Coaches and program directors can leverage the appeal of customization to enhance the overall lacrosse experience for young players.
Sustainability in Lacrosse Head Customization
As environmental concerns become increasingly prominent, the lacrosse community is exploring ways to make head customization more sustainable. Some initiatives include:
- Developing eco-friendly dyes and finishes
- Creating recyclable and biodegradable head materials
- Implementing recycling programs for used lacrosse heads
- Promoting upcycling of old heads into art or functional items
These efforts not only reduce the environmental impact of the sport but also align with the values of many players and fans who prioritize sustainability.
The Economics of Custom Lacrosse Head Design
The growing popularity of custom lacrosse heads has created new economic opportunities within the sport:
- Emergence of specialized customization businesses
- Increased demand for skilled artists and designers
- Development of new products and tools for customization
- Potential for licensing and collaboration with major brands
This niche market has the potential to contribute significantly to the overall lacrosse industry, driving innovation and creating jobs.
Integrating Technology in Lacrosse Head Customization
Advancements in technology are opening up new possibilities for lacrosse head customization:
- 3D modeling software for precise design planning
- Laser etching for intricate, permanent patterns
- Smart materials that change color or pattern based on temperature or impact
- Augmented reality apps for real-time design visualization
These technological innovations are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in lacrosse head design, creating exciting new opportunities for players and artists alike.
The Global Spread of Lacrosse Head Customization
As lacrosse continues to gain popularity worldwide, the trend of custom head designs is spreading to new markets. This global expansion is leading to:
- Incorporation of diverse cultural motifs and artistic traditions
- Cross-pollination of design ideas between different regions
- Growth of international customization businesses and collaborations
- Increased visibility of the sport through unique, eye-catching designs
The global nature of this trend is contributing to the rich tapestry of lacrosse culture and fostering connections between players from different backgrounds.
Custom lacrosse head designs have evolved from a niche interest to a significant aspect of the sport’s culture. As techniques improve and creativity flourishes, we can expect to see even more stunning and innovative designs on lacrosse fields around the world. Whether created by professional artists or DIY enthusiasts, these personalized heads allow players to make a statement and leave their mark on the game they love.
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Mark the Shark
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Jenny Levy receives Legacy Award
TOWSON, MARYLAND – JULY 02: United States head coach Jenny Levy (L) walks out prior to Day Four of the World Lacrosse Womens World Championship at Unitas Stadium on July 02, 2022 in Towson, Maryland.
(Photo by Ryan Hunt/Getty Images)
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North Carolina Tar Heels
by Jordan Falls
UNC Women’s Lacrosse head coach and leader of the program Jenny Levy was recognized by USA Lacrosse at their Foundation Gala.
It has become commonplace for the entire North Carolina athletic department to have some of the top coaches in the country. Jenny Levy, head coach of the UNC Women’s Lacrosse program, is on that list of top coaches. On Wednesday she was recognized once again nationally for her accomplishments.
Coach Jenny Levy receiving her @USA_Lacrosse Legacy Award!! 🐑🥍 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/5hEkUX71N8
— Tari | Official Lax Girl™️ (@officiallaxgirl) June 7, 2023
The USA Lacrosse Foundation held its second annual Foundation Gala on June 7th, 2023 and Levy was among the honorees at the event, which helps fundraise for USA Lacrosse.
Levy received the USA Lacrosse Legacy Award at the event. When it was announced in mid-April that Levy would be honored for her success as a coach as well as her passion for the game, she was somewhat surprised.
“I was really surprised when I got the phone call — in my spirit I think I’m still a young coach and clearly I’m not. “I live to be in the moment and help problem solve things in front of me. To think about what a body of work is, is interesting. It’s not how I operate.”
As many UNC Women’s Lacrosse fans know, Levy has been very successful since starting the Carolina program in 1994, racking up over 400 career wins, the third most in Division 1. Along with the wins, she has turned the Tar Heels into a powerhouse, winning three national championships and seven ACC championships. Levy was also the head coach of Team USA which won a gold medal in 2022 at the World Lacrosse Championship.
She has been an advocate for the game of lacrosse and women’s lacrosse, suggesting rule changes and helping grow the game as much as possible.
Along with all of those accolades, Levy recently earned a contract extension that secures her stay in Chapel Hill through 2027, something that all Tar Heel fans can be excited about when it comes to keeping the top coaching talent in Chapel Hill.
More information on Levy and the USA Lacrosse Organization can be found here.
Follow us @KeepingItHeel on Twitter and like our fan page on Facebook for continued coverage of North Carolina Tar Heels athletics news, updates, and recruiting.
Keeping the head working: How to properly take care of brain health
Our brain makes up about 2% of body weight, but it consumes the most energy. The quality of a person’s life directly depends on how his natural “computer” works, so everyone wants it to serve for a long time. How to achieve this – we asked a specialist who not only knows, but literally sees how the brain works.
Age-related changes in the brain begin already in adulthood, says neurosurgeon of the Irkutsk Regional Clinical Hospital Vasily Chipizubov .
Depending on heredity and lifestyle, this may come later, but one way or another they happen to everyone. Gradually, memory deteriorates, the sharpness of the mind decreases, thinking becomes more conservative. In old age, these processes can become more noticeable, and in some cases reach the state of dementia (dementia).
– The life expectancy of modern people is increasing, and, accordingly, there are more diseases associated with age. Among them is the well-known Alzheimer’s disease – the so-called brain aging, which occurs in people over 70-80 years old. In simple terms, Alzheimer’s disease is brain shrinkage. This is literally true: the mass and volume of the brain become much smaller, which, accordingly, cannot but affect those centers that make a person a human being, not only a biological, but also a social being. So far, medicine cannot cure or slow down the development of this disease, as well as guaranteed to protect against its occurrence.
Moreover, brain aging, as well as tumor formations, can affect not only a person’s mental abilities and memory, but also behavior: a person can become lethargic, aggressive, character, emotional-volitional sphere, mood, perception can change criticism and more.
Did you find a camel?
Of course, many are concerned about whether it is possible to somehow assess the risks of degenerative diseases in advance. On the Internet and social networks, picture tests are very popular, like “Find the Camel”, which promise that the correct and quick completion of the task guarantees that a person will be in his right mind for the rest of his life. However, as experts are sure, no test is able to detect such a predisposition.
– As with any neurodegenerative disease, heredity is a definite risk factor for the development of dementia. However, there are no specific markers here, that is, it is impossible to check the blood for the presence of substances or to conduct one test for a person and say that in 40 years he will definitely have (or definitely not!) Alzheimer’s disease, it is impossible. Nevertheless, these tests – when you need to isolate one figure from many randomly located lines – are very common. Even in the Soviet years, a picture with skiers in the forest, where you need to find a hare, was popular.
But it is worth remembering that the brain of all of us works a little differently, the mechanisms are close, but everyone has individual specifics. And if a person cannot find a hare or a camel in the picture, but proves a complex theorem, this does not mean that Alzheimer is waiting for him, – notes Vasily Alexandrovich.
If a person cannot find a hare in a picture, but proves a complex theorem, this does not mean that he will have Alzheimer’s disease. The result, of course, will be approximate, but it will allow us to assess whether our “computer” works well. It is noteworthy that even people who are engaged in mental work may find themselves lagging behind the average level of intellectual activity.
– This is especially true for people who have occupied one position and performed one function throughout their lives. Once they learned to do their job well, and for 30-40 years their level did not change. But the world around was changing, and now any step to the side causes fear in them.
It is the plasticity of the brain, the ability to integrate new things, draw conclusions, and change – this is an excellent indicator that the brain is working.
The brain must work
In order to maintain maximum clarity of mind in old age, it is worth starting to take care of your brain as early as possible, no less than your physical form. How exactly to take care of – the tips are extremely simple (although not everyone succeeds in implementing them).
People who are engaged in mental work may find themselves lagging behind the average level of intellectual activity. This is especially true for those who have occupied one position throughout their lives. Once they learned to do their job well, and for 30-40 years their level did not change. Any step to the side causes fear in them. It is the plasticity of the brain, the ability to integrate new things, draw conclusions, and change – this is an excellent indicator that the brain is working.
Neurosurgeon of the Irkutsk Regional Clinical Hospital Vasily Chipizubov
– The brain, just like a muscle, if it works all your life, it will function for a long time. If you don’t use your hand for even six months, developing it later will be a problem. The same with the brain, if you do not use it – do not read, do not sing, do not memorize new things, do not think, then the areas that are responsible for these functions will “fall asleep”. Everything that is not involved will become more and more difficult to access over time. If a person is not taught to speak before the age of five, he will not speak. Therefore, the most effective thing we can do to push back the decline is to constantly give our brain a job, – reminds the doctor. – And it’s very good if it will be a different job. Suppose you do mathematics, physics, some exact sciences in the morning, then play tennis, sing in the evening, play instruments, compose poetry at night.
Of course, this is such an ideal option, but the principle is clear: the brain needs a variety of loads. The more different types of activities there are, the more areas in the brain we will pump. It has long been proven to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
… and still eat and rest
But too active load can overload the brain, the specialist warns. Especially in children. After all, an adult can say that he is tired, but a child has not yet mastered such a mechanism of self-defense.
– Undoubtedly, the best rest is a change of activity. But you need to periodically just relax and not think. Of course, it’s easy to say “don’t think about anything”, in fact we think all the time. It is worth at least learning to think about something simple, about small-component things at such moments of rest: blue sky, green grass. It is somewhat reminiscent of the now popular meditations.
Food also matters. Of course, for the high-quality work of the brain, nutrition should be varied, include all the necessary amino acids, proteins, fats and carbohydrates, trace elements.
It is also important to have enough water. But the old stereotype that the brain needs sugar is not supported by doctors today. The brain can get the carbohydrates it needs not only from sweets, but also from other foods. You definitely won’t become smarter from more sugar, but the risk of diabetes will increase, and this is already a negative effect on blood vessels, which will also be negative for the brain. Therefore, experts do not advise leaning on sweets. It is better to take a walk instead, because our brain experiences a lack of oxygen quite often. Oxygen starvation, especially abruptly onset, can have a very detrimental effect on brain function. Also, lack of sleep and chronic stress are harmful to the brain – the facts are well known, but, unfortunately, not everyone can ensure a balance in these areas.
Doctor, fix it!
But sometimes you can’t get by with verses and exercises, you need to seek medical help. Moreover, the most radical option – surgical intervention – has been actively developing for a long time and today is able to solve many “head problems”.
According to Vasily Chipizubov, the neurosurgical department of the regional hospital performs about 500 brain surgeries a year. Doctors operate on tumors, consequences of head injuries, vascular pathologies of the brain. In recent years, the number of operations has increased, this is due, among other things, to the fact that diagnostics are improving.
– A person may not have much pain, but his relatives suddenly notice that he has become aggressive. Someone will think that character has deteriorated with age. But it also happens differently: they performed a diagnosis and found a tumor in the brain. The tumor was removed – and the good-natured disposition returned.
Most of the surgical technologies used were introduced decades ago and are constantly being improved. Although a person who is far from medicine, the description of the manipulations of a neurosurgeon can be shocking: they sometimes resemble science fiction, sometimes thrillers.
So, in case of vascular pathologies of the brain, our doctors successfully use endovascular technology. It consists in the fact that a puncture is made in the thigh, a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery, which is brought to the brain through the vascular system. And already there, inside the vessel, with the help of a manipulator, the doctor does everything so that painful changes in the vessel can never lead to a catastrophe. This technology is used, among other things, for aneurysms of cerebral vessels (such pathologies can lead to a stroke, creating a serious danger to life).
When removing tumors in the brain, it is sometimes necessary to open the skull, but access to the brain is also possible through the mouth, nose or eyebrow.
– Another promising direction in neurosurgery has been developing for several decades – microsurgery. Operations on the brain under a microscope are more effective and help to avoid complications. And the accuracy of the manipulations helps to evaluate the computer.
Tumors to be removed can be located very close to important areas of the brain, and excessive movement of the scalpel can lead to injury. Therefore, special programs during the operation monitor whether the manipulation will disrupt the function of the nerve responsible, for example, for vision or facial muscles.
Modern medicine is gradually moving forward. Today, functional neurosurgery makes it possible to surgically treat diseases that only neurologists dealt with 50 years ago, in particular Parkinson’s disease. Electrodes are implanted into the brain, which, by supplying an electric current, act on special areas and correct their work. Doctors also treat epilepsy, tics, visual impairment. There are examples in world medical practice when they try to treat obesity surgically.
– Some of our functions are controlled by separate areas of the brain, for example, areas in the temporal lobe are responsible for speech perception, and in the back of the head are visual areas.
And by influencing them, we can qualitatively change their work. But there are a lot of functions for which not one specific center is responsible, but the associative cortex of the brain, which gives its neurons to work in several areas at once. This also applies to logical thinking and creativity. That’s why we can’t artificially add a talent for writing poetry or great math skills. Surgically, you can make a person forget something, but you can’t improve memory either. Therefore, we are left with the traditional methods of brain development: read more, constantly learn new things, actively move and have a good rest.
Little things that will be good for your brain:
– try not to type on the keyboard, but write by hand. Fine motor skills aren’t just for toddlers;
– try to do the usual things with the other hand: if you are right-handed, brush your teeth, comb your hair, hold a spoon, etc. left hand;
– count in your mind;
– change your walking routes, read new books, communicate with interesting people – the brain needs new experiences;
– remember about posture – it is important for the blood supply to the brain.
Exercises for the neck muscles will also not be superfluous.
What is paresis and how to treat it: causes and treatment
Paresis is a loss of muscle strength associated with damage to the nervous system. With paresis, a person’s gait and coordination are disturbed, a tremor appears in the arms and legs, it becomes difficult for him to change the position of the body. If a person completely loses the ability to move, then we are talking about paralysis.
One of the frequent consequences of paresis is the formation of contractures (limitation of movement in the joints). To reduce the risk of their occurrence, at the first sign you need to see a doctor.
Patient in occupational therapy session
Types of paresis and their causes destruction of the protein responsible for the transmission of nerve impulses. Paresis can be the result of encephalitis, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury and spinal injury.
Paresis can be central (at the level of the brain and spinal cord) and peripheral (at the level of peripheral nerves).
Central paresis is characterized by an increase in the tone of the affected muscles. Peripheral paresis develops in a group of muscles associated with a damaged nerve, and is expressed in muscle weakness and involuntary muscle twitches.
Paresis can affect either one side of the body (arm and leg paresis on one side), or both limbs (arms or legs at the same time, for example, paresis / paraparesis of the lower extremities), or one arm or leg (arm or leg palsy). Most often, patients experience a manifestation of hemiparesis – paresis of one half of the body. With hemiparesis, the patient is concerned about a decrease in skin sensitivity, soreness and swelling of the muscles, weakness, impaired flexion and extension of the joint, tremor, unsteady gait, uncoordinated movements. Right-sided hemiparesis occurs in patients much more often than left-sided. These patients often have difficulty reading, writing, and counting.
In patients after trauma to the larynx, surgery on the organs of the neck (thyroid gland, carotid artery, cervical spine), in case of cancer, paresis of the larynx may occur – a temporary violation of the mobility of the muscles of the larynx.
This diagnosis is established in patients with a disease duration of up to 6 months. The clinical recommendations of the Ministry of Health say that it is possible to restore the mobility of the muscles of the larynx in a period of several months to two years.
Facial paresis may occur after a stroke. With paresis, there is: drooping of the corner of the mouth, violation of the act of swallowing, restriction of eyebrow mobility, impossibility of completely closing the eye, violation of facial expressions. According to the WHO, damage to the facial nerve ranks second in frequency among diseases of the peripheral nervous system. Paresis of mimic muscles leads not only to cosmetic deficiencies and painful experiences of the patient, but also to impaired swallowing and chewing functions, impaired pronunciation and even loss of vision (if neuroparalytic keratitis is detected).
Diagnosis of paresis
Diagnosis of paresis can be carried out by a rehabilitation specialist or a neurologist.
To identify the causes and severity of paresis, patients are prescribed MRI, a blood test to determine the level of vitamin B12 and folic acid, and myelography. It is also necessary to assess muscle strength by manual muscle testing (this diagnosis is carried out by a neurologist or physical therapist).
Treatment of paresis
Treatment depends on the cause of the paresis, as well as the presence of secondary complications, which usually occur due to lack of movement. As a rule, rehabilitation is necessary, including classes with a physical therapist, mechanotherapy on special simulators, aqua therapy, drug treatment and the help of a psychologist. The patient may also be prescribed massage and neuromuscular stimulation. Most of the patients achieved significant results after intensive rehabilitation in our center.
Tactics of treatment for paresis of the larynx depends on the severity of symptoms, pathologies associated with the disease and the size of the glottis.
The treatment uses surgical methods (including neuroplasty), medicinal methods. In some cases, it is possible to carry out tracheostomy and laryngoplasty in the required volume. One of the most important stages in the treatment of paresis of the larynx is rehabilitation. First of all, patients need the help of a speech therapist and a swallowing specialist, the supervision of a neurologist. In the early stages of rehabilitation, it is recommended to combine drug therapy, neuromuscular electrophonopedic stimulation and sound exercises (phonopedia). The clinical recommendations of the Ministry of Health say that such rehabilitation contributes to the early restoration of sonority of the voice in 60% of cases.
In the treatment of paresis of the facial nerve, the method of adhesive plaster tension is used: the adhesive plaster is applied to the active points of the healthy side of the face (the area of the square muscle of the upper lip, the circular muscle of the mouth) and, with tension directed towards the diseased side, is attached to a special mask or to the side straps of the postoperative bandages.
