Good lacrosse sticks. Mastering the Art of Traditional Lacrosse Stick Making: Preserving Indigenous Craft and Culture

How did Alfie Jacques contribute to the preservation of traditional lacrosse stick making. What is the process of crafting a wooden lacrosse stick. Why are wooden lacrosse sticks significant in Indigenous culture.

The Legacy of Alfie Jacques: A Master Lacrosse Stick Maker

Alfie Jacques, a renowned lacrosse stick maker from the Onondaga Nation Reserve in New York, passed away in June 2024 at the age of 74. His legacy in the world of lacrosse extends far beyond his craftsmanship, touching the lives of players, apprentices, and lacrosse enthusiasts worldwide.

Jacques, a member of the Turtle Clan, learned the art of lacrosse stick making from his father, who was also a master woodcarver. This intergenerational transfer of knowledge highlights the deep-rooted traditions within Indigenous communities and the importance of preserving cultural practices.

Alfie Jacques’ Impact on Lacrosse

• Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Famer
• Professional lacrosse player in the 1960s and 70s
• Dedicated stick maker for over six decades
• Mentor to aspiring craftsmen

The Apprenticeship Journey: Jack Johnson’s Experience

Jack Johnson, a 44-year-old from Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne, spent nearly a decade apprenticing with Alfie Jacques. Johnson’s journey to becoming Jacques’ apprentice was not an easy one. It took persistence and dedication to prove his commitment to the craft.

How did Jack Johnson become Alfie Jacques’ apprentice?

Johnson had to consistently call and visit Jacques for about six months before being accepted as an apprentice. This rigorous selection process ensured that only those truly dedicated to the craft would have the opportunity to learn from the master stick maker.

Lessons from the Master

Working with Jacques provided Johnson with invaluable insights into the art of lacrosse stick making. The experience went beyond mere technique, encompassing the spirit and love for the game that Jacques embodied.

What was the most important lesson Jack Johnson learned from Alfie Jacques?

Jacques encouraged Johnson to develop his own style in stick making, emphasizing the importance of individuality within the craft. This advice highlights the balance between preserving tradition and fostering innovation in Indigenous artistry.

The Art and Science of Wooden Lacrosse Stick Making

Creating a traditional wooden lacrosse stick is a meticulous process that requires patience, skill, and a deep understanding of the materials involved. The craftsmanship behind these sticks sets them apart from modern, mass-produced alternatives.

The Stick-Making Process

1. Harvesting shagbark hickory trees
2. Breaking down the wood
3. Initial drying of the shafts (1 month)
4. Steaming and bending the wood
5. Forming the scoop and back bend using a metal mold
6. Further drying and seasoning
7. Cutting and carving the stick to size
8. Netting with leather or rawhide

How long does it take to make a traditional lacrosse stick?

According to Jack Johnson, the entire process of creating a traditional lacrosse stick takes approximately 10 months. This extended timeframe reflects the care and attention to detail required at each stage of production.

The Spiritual and Cultural Significance of Wooden Lacrosse Sticks

For many Indigenous lacrosse players, wooden sticks hold a deep spiritual and cultural significance. These sticks are not merely pieces of equipment but extensions of the players themselves, connecting them to their heritage and the spirit of the game.

Care and Handling of Traditional Sticks

• Protection from rain and extreme heat
• Specific handling instructions based on cultural beliefs
• Regular maintenance to preserve the wood

Why are wooden lacrosse sticks considered spiritually significant?

Wooden lacrosse sticks are viewed as more than just sporting equipment in Indigenous cultures. They embody the spirit of the game, connect players to their ancestors, and serve as a physical representation of cultural traditions and beliefs.

Comparing Traditional and Modern Lacrosse Sticks

While modern lacrosse sticks have gained popularity due to their durability and consistency, many players still prefer the feel and performance of traditional wooden sticks. The debate between traditional and modern sticks highlights the ongoing evolution of the sport.

Advantages of Wooden Sticks

• Greater stability, especially on hard surfaces
• Unique feel and connection to the game
• Cultural and spiritual significance

Advantages of Modern Sticks

• Increased durability
• Consistent performance
• Easier maintenance

How do wooden lacrosse sticks compare to modern “tupperware” sticks in terms of performance?

According to experienced players like Mike Thompson, wooden sticks offer greater stability, particularly on cement floors, where plastic sticks tend to spin more easily. This stability can provide an advantage in certain playing conditions and styles.

Preserving the Craft: Passing on Traditional Stick Making

As master craftsmen like Alfie Jacques pass on, the importance of preserving the art of traditional lacrosse stick making becomes increasingly apparent. Efforts to continue this craft and pass it on to future generations are crucial for maintaining this aspect of Indigenous culture.

Initiatives to Preserve the Craft

• Apprenticeship programs
• Community workshops
• Documentation of techniques
• Collaboration with cultural institutions

How are efforts being made to preserve the art of traditional lacrosse stick making?

Craftsmen like Jack Johnson are taking active roles in teaching the art of stick making to others, including plans to work with various Indigenous communities. Additionally, finishing the sticks left incomplete by Alfie Jacques serves as a way to honor his legacy while continuing the tradition.

The Future of Traditional Lacrosse Stick Making

As the sport of lacrosse continues to evolve and grow globally, the role of traditional stick making faces both challenges and opportunities. The balance between honoring ancient techniques and adapting to modern demands will shape the future of this craft.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Increasing demand for handcrafted sticks
• Limited number of skilled craftsmen
• Integration of traditional elements in modern stick design
• Educating new generations about the cultural significance

What does the future hold for traditional lacrosse stick making?

The future of traditional lacrosse stick making lies in the hands of dedicated craftsmen like Jack Johnson and others who are committed to preserving and evolving the art. By teaching new generations and finding ways to integrate traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, the legacy of master stick makers like Alfie Jacques can continue to thrive.

In conclusion, the art of traditional lacrosse stick making represents more than just the creation of sporting equipment. It embodies centuries of Indigenous culture, spirituality, and craftsmanship. As we look to the future, the preservation of this art form serves as a vital link to the past, ensuring that the rich heritage of lacrosse continues to inspire and connect players for generations to come.

Master lacrosse stick maker Alfie Jacques passes on tradition before dying

Master lacrosse stick maker Alfie Jacques died at 74 in June.

Jacques, Turtle Clan from Onondaga Nation Reserve in New York, was taught by his father — also a master woodcarver — to make lacrosse sticks at a young age.

Jacques had a few apprentices who dedicated themselves to the craft. Jack Johnson was one of them.

“It took me about six months for him to even talk to me,” said Johnson, “I had to keep calling and going down and kind of prove to him that I was really serious about it. And then, he finally said, ‘Ok’,” said Johnson of his desire to apprentice with Jacques.

Jack Johnson has been apprenticing with Alfie Jacques for nearly a decade. (Jack Johnson)

Johnson, 44, from Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne, apprenticed with Jacques for nearly a decade. 

He said others had gone to Jacques to learn to make sticks but didn’t follow through, and for a man in his 70s, Jacques’ time was a precious resource not to be wasted.

Jacques was also a Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Famer who played professional lacrosse in the 1960s and 70s. 

“It was an honor to work with somebody that loved the craft, loved the game, you know, loved the spirit of it,” said Johnson.

The wooden sticks Jacques made were cherished by the players who received them, like Trav Hill. 

Hill was given his first wooden stick made by Jacques when he played for the Iroquois (Haudenosaunee) Nationals in the World Lacrosse Championships in Denver, Colorado back in 2014.

Trav Hill holding his wooden lacrosse stick, made by Alfie Jacques. (Trav Hill)

Hill said his traditional wooden stick is one of his most “prized possessions.” 

“It’s up there with, pretty parallel to, even winning the NLL championship to own a stick by Alfie. And I felt that way even when he was alive,” said Hill, who played in the National Lacrosse League with Rochester Knighhawks when they won the NLL Champions Cup in 2012.

Passing on the craft

Johnson said traditional lacrosse sticks take about 10 months to make and he, just like Jacques, does everything himself.

“I cut the trees. I break them down. I make the old style gut walls, rawhide, string the sticks. I do everything from start to finish,” said Johnson.

Wooden sticks are made from shagbark hickory which must be cut, dried and carved into shafts.

These shafts are then dried for a month and steamed in between each bending process. A metal mould is used to form a scoop that will become the pocket and a second back bend just above the scoop, for the stick’s balance. 

The sticks are dried again before they are cut down to size and carved, seasoned and ready to be netted with leather or rawhide.

Johnson said he makes about 20 sticks at a time, each at various stages of production.

“Creating these lacrosse sticks is my medicine. Some days I’m not having a good day and I just go out and I finish up a stick and then I go out, shoot around. It kind of keeps your mind in a good place,” Johnson said.

After Jacques became ill, Johnson and friend Stephen Donovan started a GoFundMe page, raising over $40,000 for Jacques and his family.

Johnson — who wants to continue teaching his craft and hopes to teach other Indigenous communities how to make the sticks — plans to work with Jacques’ family to finish the 100 to 150 sticks Jacques started. The remaining proceeds will be donated to the family.

He was encouraged by his mentor to have his own style when it comes to making traditional sticks. 

“Don’t worry about the way I make them or the way other people make them,” Jacques told him. “Figure out your own way.”

One of Johnson’s proudest moments was having Jacques check over his finished sticks and give them a seal of approval.

“You know you made it,” he said.

Alfie Jacques, master lacrosse stick maker, had been making sticks since he was 12 years old. (Lacrosse All Stars Instagram)

Former Akwesasne Thunder and Iroquois (Haudenosaunee) Nationals goaltender Mike Thompson has been stringing his own lacrosse sticks since he was young but learned to make wooden sticks from Johnson in about 2012.

“Alfie helped me refine my carving. Jack taught me the process,” said Thompson, “Alfie knew all the tricks.” 

At the height of his business, Thompson was making about  35-50 sticks a year.

Extension of themselves

Thompson prefers using a wooden stick for stability referring to contemporary lacrosse sticks as “tupperware.”

“The plastic sticks spin pretty easy, especially on cement floors,” said Thompson.

For many Indigenous lacrosse players, the connection to their wooden lacrosse stick is spiritual. 

Johnson said the traditional wooden sticks must be cared for. They can’t be left in the rain, or in the heat and women are not to touch them because Johnson was taught that a woman’s energy is “too powerful.”

Trav Hill with the Haudenosaunee Nationals in Denver, CO, 2014. (Trav Hill)

Thompson received his first wooden stick from his wife who had Jacques put it in the car for her. “It’s like a living being,” said Thompson.

For Hill, playing with a wooden stick feels like an extension of his body.

“When I received this one from Iroquois Nationals, it just felt natural holding it and using it,” he said.

“There was a connection that gave you more confidence when you were holding it.”

Best Lacrosse Sticks for Midfielders in 2023

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If you’re a midfielder in lacrosse, you know that your stick is one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll use on the field. It’s not just a tool to catch and pass the ball, but also a weapon to shoot and score. That’s why finding the best lacrosse sticks for midfielders that suit your position and playing style is crucial.

When it comes to midfielders, you need a stick that can handle both offensive and defensive duties. You’ll need a stick that’s versatile, lightweight, and durable. The right lacrosse stick can make the difference between a successful and frustrating game.

One critical factor to consider when purchasing a lacrosse stick is the head shape and size. Midfielders need a head that’s not too wide or too narrow, with a moderate scoop for ground balls. Another important feature is the shaft material and length, which can affect the stick’s weight, grip, and flexibility.

We’ve spent hours researching and testing various lacrosse sticks to identify the best options for midfielders. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, we’ve got you covered.

Table of Contents

Best Lacrosse Sticks for Midfielders

If you are a midfielder, you know the right lacrosse stick’s importance. It needs to be lightweight, durable, and versatile enough to handle a variety of situations on the field. With so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best midfield lacrosse sticks. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these sticks will help you take your game to the next level.

STX Lacrosse Stallion 200 Boys Complete Stick with Mesh Pocket, Attack/Midfielder White

If you’re looking for a reliable beginner’s lacrosse stick, the STX Lacrosse Stallion 200 Boys Complete Stick with Mesh Pocket is a great choice.

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Pros

• Soft mesh stringing for easy catching and ball control
• Inspired by the elite STX men’s Stallion U550 head
• Meets NCAA and NFHS Rules

Cons

• Not suitable for advanced players
• Some users reported a kink or bend in the shaft after a few games
• The head is a little soft

This stick is perfect for entry-level boys players who are just starting out in the sport. The soft mesh stringing makes catching and controlling the ball easy, while the Stallion U550 head provides a great feel and improved accuracy. It’s also lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for younger players who are still developing their skills.

One of the best things about the STX Lacrosse Stallion 200 Boys Complete Stick with Mesh Pocket is that it meets NCAA and NFHS Rules, which means it can be used in official games and tournaments. This makes it a great investment for parents who want to give their children a head start in the sport.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable beginner’s lacrosse stick, the STX Lacrosse Stallion 200 Boys Complete Stick with Mesh Pocket is definitely worth considering. It’s easy to use, meets official rules, and is sure to provide hours of fun for young players.

Franklin Sports Lacrosse Stick

If you’re a midfielder looking for a reliable lacrosse stick, the Franklin Sports Lacrosse Stick is a good option.

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Pros

• The 30″ shaft is perfect for midfielders and attackers, providing premium control and precision.
• The Neo-Grip surface texture on the shaft offers improved control and stability, making it easy to cradle and make quick hand adjustments for lightning-fast passes and shots.
• The lightweight aluminum construction of the stick helps players stay agile and mobile while reducing drag for maximum stick speed, control, and follow-through.

Cons

• The included pocket is made with standard 10 Diamond semi-soft mesh that breaks in quickly, but it may not be ideal for every player.
• The stick may not be suitable for advanced players who require a more customized setup.
• Some users have reported that the stick is prone to bending or breaking with heavy use.

This stick is a great option for beginner to intermediate players looking for a reliable and affordable option. The included pocket breaks in quickly and allows for a deeper pocket and more ball control when cradling. The lightweight aluminum construction makes the stick easy to handle and maneuver, while the Neo-Grip surface texture provides added control and stability. However, advanced players may want to look for a more customizable option, and heavy use may cause the stick to bend or break over time.

CHAMPRO Lacrosse Stick Adult

If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable lacrosse stick for midfielders, CHAMPRO’s LS1 is definitely worth considering.

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Pros

• The molded nylon head is incredibly responsive, making it easier to catch and release the ball.
• The soft mesh is great for players of all levels and can handle contact.
• The sleek black aluminum shaft with glossy finish and blue graphics give the stick a professional look.

Cons

• The stick is only designed for attack/midfield, so it may not be suitable for all players.
• The length of the stick measures 30″, which may be too long or too short for some players.
• Some players may prefer a stick with a thicker shaft.

Overall, the CHAMPRO LS1 is a solid choice for midfielders who are just starting out or looking for an affordable option. The stick is easy to handle and has a great feel, making it ideal for players of all levels.

The molded nylon head is definitely a standout feature, as it provides greater response for catch and release than most complete sticks on the market. Additionally, the soft mesh can handle all levels of contact, making it a great option for players who are just starting out.

One potential downside of the stick is that it’s only designed for attack/midfield, so it may not be suitable for all players. Additionally, the length of the stick measures 30″, which may be too long or too short for some players. Finally, some players may prefer a stick with a thicker shaft.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable lacrosse stick for midfielders, the CHAMPRO LS1 is definitely worth considering. It’s a great option for players of all levels, and its responsive nylon head and soft mesh make it easy to handle and control.

StringKing Complete 2 Pro Midfield Men’s Lacrosse Stick

If you’re looking for a high-performing lacrosse stick that’s perfect for midfielders, the StringKing Complete 2 Pro is definitely worth considering. It’s built with the elite player in mind and comes with a Mark 2V head and a Metal 2 Lacrosse Shaft, making it an excellent choice for those who want a stick that delivers both strength and accuracy.

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Pros

• The Mark 2V head is expertly strung to deliver a balance of strength, control, and accuracy, making it perfect for midfielders.
• The Metal 2 Lacrosse Shaft is engineered for stiffness and consistency, giving you the power you need to dominate on the field.
• The StringKing Complete 2 Pro is built with the elite player in mind, so you can be sure you’re getting a high-quality product that will help you take your game to the next level.

Cons

• The StringKing Complete 2 Pro is designed specifically for midfielders, so if you play a different position, you may want to consider a different lacrosse stick.
• This stick is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best choice for those who are on a tight budget.
• Some players may find that the Mark 2V head takes some getting used to, especially if they’re used to playing with a different type of head.

If you’re looking for a lacrosse stick that’s specifically designed for midfielders, the StringKing Complete 2 Pro is definitely worth considering. The Mark 2V head is expertly strung to deliver a balance of strength, control, and accuracy, making it perfect for midfielders who need to be able to make quick, precise passes and shots. The Metal 2 Lacrosse Shaft is engineered for stiffness and consistency, giving you the power you need to dominate on the field. Overall, the StringKing Complete 2 Pro is an excellent choice for midfielders who are looking for a high-performing lacrosse stick that will help them take their game to the next level.

That being said, there are a few downsides to consider. First and foremost, the StringKing Complete 2 Pro is designed specifically for midfielders, so if you play a different position, you may want to consider a different lacrosse stick. Additionally, this stick is on the pricier side, so it may not be the best choice for those who are on a tight budget. Finally, some players may find that the Mark 2V head takes some getting used to, especially if they’re used to playing with a different type of head. However, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality lacrosse stick that’s specifically designed for midfielders, the StringKing Complete 2 Pro is definitely worth considering.

STX Stallion Omega Unstrung Head

If you’re a midfielder looking for a reliable lacrosse stick, the STX Stallion Omega Unstrung Head is a great option.

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Pros

• The Omega polymer material is incredibly strong and lightweight, making it perfect for long games.
• The redesigned Speed Scoop makes it easier to pick up groundballs from any angle.
• The Innerlock feature makes it easy to string the head and adds more hold to your shots.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the head cracked after a few months of use.
• It’s unstrung, so you’ll need to purchase stringing materials separately.
• It’s not the most affordable option on the market.

This head is built to last, and the Omega polymer material is a standout feature that offers a great strength-to-weight ratio. The Speed Scoop is also a great addition, as it makes it easier to grab groundballs without having to worry about the angle of attack. The Innerlock feature is another plus, as it makes it easy to string the head and gives you more control over your shots.

However, some users have reported that the head can crack after a few months of use, so it’s important to take care of it properly. Additionally, since it’s unstrung, you’ll need to purchase stringing materials separately, which can add to the cost. That being said, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality lacrosse stick, the STX Stallion Omega Unstrung Head is definitely worth considering.

Powell Lacrosse Scout Boys Youth Complete Stick, Attack/Midfielder

If you are a young player looking for an affordable lacrosse stick that is game-ready out of the box, then the Powell Lacrosse Scout Boys Youth Complete Stick is worth considering.

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Pros

• The stick is shipped fully assembled and ready to play with, so you don’t have to worry about stringing it yourself or buying additional parts.
• The 600 Series Metal Shaft with classic shape and matte texture provides a comfortable grip and great control.
• The stick is strung in the USA by a certified String Team, ensuring that the pocket is well-crafted and game-ready.

Cons

• The stick is designed for beginners and young players, so it may not be suitable for more advanced players who require a higher level of customization.
• The stick is only available in a 30″ Attack/Midfield Length, so it may not be suitable for players who require a longer or shorter shaft.
• The stick may not be as durable as higher-end models, so it may need to be replaced sooner than expected.

The Powell Lacrosse Scout Boys Youth Complete Stick is a great option for young players who are just starting out and want a stick that is easy to use and affordable. The stick is shipped fully assembled and game-ready, so you can start playing right away. The 600 Series Metal Shaft with classic shape and matte texture provides a comfortable grip and great control, while the pocket is well-crafted and game-ready thanks to the certified String Team that strings each stick in the USA.

However, the stick is designed for beginners and young players, so it may not be suitable for more advanced players who require a higher level of customization. Additionally, the stick is only available in a 30″ Attack/Midfield Length, which may not be suitable for players who require a longer or shorter shaft. Finally, the stick may not be as durable as higher-end models, so it may need to be replaced sooner than expected.

Overall, if you are a young player looking for an affordable and easy-to-use lacrosse stick, then the Powell Lacrosse Scout Boys Youth Complete Stick is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the right lacrosse stick for midfielders, there are several factors to consider. You want to find a stick that fits your playing style and skill level, while also being comfortable and durable. Here are some features to look for when choosing a lacrosse stick:

Head Shape and Size

The head of the stick is one of the most important parts to consider. The shape and size of the head can affect your ability to catch, cradle, and control the ball. Midfielders generally prefer a head with a wider face shape, as it allows for better ball control and accuracy. The size of the head should also be considered, as a larger head can provide more surface area for catching and ground ball pickups.

Shaft Material and Length

The material and length of the shaft can also impact your performance on the field. Midfielders typically prefer a shaft made of lightweight materials, such as aluminum or composite. These materials are durable and provide good grip and control. The length of the shaft is a personal preference, but most midfielders prefer a shaft that is around 30 inches in length.

Weight

The weight of the stick is another important factor to consider. A lighter stick can provide better control and maneuverability, but may not be as durable as a heavier stick. It’s important to find a stick that feels comfortable in your hands and allows you to play at your best.

Pocket Type

The pocket of the stick can also impact your performance. A deeper pocket can provide better ball control, while a shallower pocket can allow for quicker release times. It’s important to find a pocket that fits your playing style and allows you to perform at your best.

By considering these factors, you can find the right lacrosse stick for your needs as a midfielder. Remember to choose a stick that fits your playing style and skill level, and that feels comfortable and durable in your hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated lacrosse sticks for midfielders?

Some of the top-rated lacrosse sticks for midfielders include the STX Stallion 700, Warrior Evo Warp Pro 2, and Maverik A1. These sticks offer a great balance of strength, accuracy, and control.

Which lacrosse stick brands are most popular among midfielders?

Some of the most popular lacrosse stick brands among midfielders include STX, Warrior, Maverik, and Brine. These brands offer a wide range of options for midfielders of all skill levels.

What are the key features to look for in a lacrosse stick for midfielders?

When choosing a lacrosse stick for midfielders, it is important to look for a stick that offers a good balance of strength, accuracy, and control. Additionally, you should consider the weight and length of the stick, as well as the material it is made from.

Are there any specific lacrosse stick models that are recommended for midfielders?

While there are many great lacrosse stick models for midfielders, some of the most highly recommended include the STX Stallion 700, Warrior Evo Warp Pro 2, and Maverik A1. These sticks offer a great balance of strength, accuracy, and control.

How do you determine the appropriate length and weight for a midfield lacrosse stick?

The appropriate length and weight for a midfield lacrosse stick will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. As a general rule, midfielders typically use sticks that are between 40 and 42 inches in length, and weigh between 11 and 14 ounces.

What are some tips for improving your performance as a midfielder in lacrosse?

To improve your performance as a midfielder in lacrosse, it is important to focus on your footwork, stick skills, and overall conditioning. Additionally, you should work on developing your game sense and strategy, as well as your ability to communicate effectively with your teammates.

Best Kids Hockey Sticks

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Choosing a hockey stick for a child is a difficult but very important task. The general impression of hockey depends on the stick, the more comfortable the stick is, the more pleasant and interesting it will be for the child to play hockey. That is why, when choosing the first and subsequent sticks for children of hockey players, it is important to take into account all the features and nuances. In this article, we will talk about the basic rules for choosing a hockey stick for young athletes, and also provide a rating of the most interesting models, which could be an excellent example of high-quality, comfortable and convenient hockey equipment for children.

Determine grip

The first thing to focus on is the grip of the stick. It can be left and right. It all depends on how the hockey player holds the stick. The left grip is obtained when, when grabbing the stick with both hands, his left hand is below, and the right grip is when his right hand is below. The majority of athletes have a left grip. They are also called “left-handed”, respectively, the owners of the right grip – “right-handed”. Knowing the grip is important because, based on it, they choose the bend of the club, which can bend to the left or right. They also produce clubs with a straight hook, designed for young children who do not yet understand what kind of grip they are comfortable playing with. It is possible to determine the grip at home by picking up an ordinary stick or mop and holding it like a club. The hand that occupies the lower position will just play a decisive role in determining the grip.

We select the height of the club

The length of a young hockey player’s stick has an impact on the comfort and pace of the game, so choosing the right one is very important. The height is selected in accordance with the growth of the hockey player.

According to this parameter, the following types are distinguished:

• children’s models – length 106-114 cm for children from three to seven years;
• junior – 119-132 cm for growing athletes from seven to fourteen years;
• junior – 137-145 cm for young hockey players up to the age of seventeen;

To accurately adjust the height of the stick to your own height, you should stand on a level ground (on your skates or standing up on your toes) and place the stick straight in front of you, placing the hook between your feet. The medium stick is suitable for versatile players with a good level of dribbling. The height of the inventory for an attacking player usually does not go above the lower lip. The shorter it is, the more comfortable it is for him to stroke and sharp wrist throws. Defenders prefer to use a long stick that reaches the nose, and sometimes the eyebrow line. Such equipment helps them to destroy the opponent’s attacks with powerful throws. A long club is good because it can always be shortened and cut to the desired size by sawing off part of the handle. A short one is more difficult to build. Only composite clubs are suitable for this. And you can do this by using a special extension. When changing the length of the inventory, it must be taken into account that shortening or building up changes its rigidity. As the stick gets shorter, stiffness increases and vice versa.

Choose hardness

The FLEX parameter or the stiffness of the hockey stick affects the conduct of the technical components. The stiffer it is, the more effort must be applied to deflect it and perform a good throw. Therefore, the heavier the hockey player, the more rigid equipment he needs.

If you choose according to the principle of age, then the required stiffness

• for small athletes is 10-20 flex,
• for juniors 30-50 flex,
• for teenagers – 55-65 flex,

Wooden models usually do not have this value. But on many modern sticks, in addition to the indicator, additional information is applied at the top of the handle about how the stiffness parameters change due to shortening of its length.

Hook length and bend

The length of the blade of the club also affects the technicality of the game. According to this parameter, hooks are:

• short – to control the puck during dribbling and increase its throwing speed;
• medium (universal) – for simultaneous control of the puck and impact force;
• long – to make it easier to receive the puck when serving and increase the power of the shot.

The angle of the hook head is also important. The larger it is, the more difficult it is to manipulate the puck on its uncomfortable side. A bend in the middle is considered more suitable. Although its area can be both the heel and toe. Hooks that are bent in the heel area are very convenient in terms of making throw passes, as they make it easier to pick up the puck.

Common mistakes in stick selection

Many parents are interested in the question, what is the difference between clubs, is it possible to buy a club cheaper first, or perhaps an expensive model designed for a specialist will do? Too long? Let’s handle it! You can cut! Misjudgments are common. Once on the ice, it will be difficult for a child with an amateur stick to master the primary skills of hockey. Companions on the ice will quickly overtake the child in terms of training. From such training, the child will not experience joyful emotions. If the level of a professional is reached, he will need to get used to professional paraphernalia again, and, accordingly, retrain.

A professional stick cannot be adjusted to the height of a young athlete. For common models, the flexibility parameter is important – Flex. The strength of the hockey player’s throw will depend on this characteristic. For the game to be optimal, the Flex indicator must be equal to the weight of the athlete. If the child weighs 25 kg, the Flex designation should be 20. Let’s say the club was ten centimeters longer. You sawed off part of the cutting. Physics tells us that by changing the length, we change the flexibility. The Flex indicator will be equal to forty. Such a stick is suitable for a hockey player weighing forty-fifty kg. For a child weighing 25 kg, it will be tough.

Children’s club Charge AK47

This model has a low deflection point and a stiffer hook. This combination provides energy absorption in the lower third of the stick, making it easier to receive strong passes and make quick shots on goal. The ZaryaD brand is a modern domestic manufacturer of high quality hockey sticks. The special geometry of the stick handle allows you to comfortably hold the puck, conduct active and effective dribbling, providing a reliable grip for the young hockey player. The stick is great for sharp wrist shots, and its overall dimensions and weight of only 275 grams will give the child the most accurate feeling of comfort from playing hockey. You can find out more on the official website of the manufacturer.

SCM HS SUPERTACKS 9380 JR

This is a semi-professional stick from a renowned manufacturer of hockey equipment. It is made of composite material. According to its characteristics, the projectile is quite versatile: it can be used both in attack and in defense. The stick has a mid-point of deflection, its central zone is soft, and the lower one is hard. The manufacturer tried to give it such a shape that it sat comfortably in the hands of a young hockey player. Clicks are strong, with its help you can throw from afar. The CCM stick has a special anti-slip Grip coating so that it does not turn in the hands even with very strong clicks. The hook is stiff and light, which was used in the production of carbon fiber, due to which it is given rigidity and good sensitivity. The weight of the model is around 500 grams (depending on the selected stiffness).

WARRIOR ALPHA LX PRO GRIP YTH

Professional stick for kids, made from Minimus Carbon UD unidirectional carbon fiber using a flat weave technique. This made it possible to create a high-quality sports equipment that combines both efficiency and durability. The stick design is traditional – rounded corners and concave sides allow you to firmly hold the stick in your hands. The handle is also covered with Tacky Apex Grip – an anti-slip agent. The WARRIOR ALPHA’s flex point is located at the bottom of the stick, which gives maximum power to the throw and allows you to quickly work with the stick. The hook has a strong edge that allows it to last longer, and the braid is made of carbon fiber. The puck with this stick is easy to feel and control.

Bauer VAPOR X 3.

7 Griptac JR

This is a semi-professional club for children, which is part of the updated VAPOR line. The new generation of this model differs from its progenitor in the first place by the introduction of XE TAPER technology, thanks to which it was possible to reduce the weight of the stick, which improves the quality of work with the puck. Another change in the Bauer VAPOR X 3.7 GRIPTAC JR is the design of the sports equipment. It is made using HIGH PERFORMANCE MOLD technology, which distributes energy more intelligently during the throw and during transfer. The base of the stick is made of unidirectional carbon fiber, which makes it durable. The hook also turned out to be quite durable, including through the use of MaxBalance technology. The total length of the model is 150 cm. The deflection point is located at the bottom.

Fischer W250

One of the most budget options for high-quality children’s clubs is the Fischer W250 P92 with a length of 132 cm – a sports equipment for children, the handle of which is made of wood and the hook is made of composite material. Rather, this is a semi-professional option that you can buy for a child who decides to try his hand at hockey – it is not so expensive, but in terms of functionality, at this level, it is not much different from more expensive models. Even the manufacturer himself says that the children’s version of the Fischer W250 (there are clubs for adults under the same name) is the best solution for beginners. It weighs about 300 grams, rigidity is at an average level.

In order not to make a mistake when choosing a stick, we recommend contacting specialized hockey stores

Tags: children, charge, sticks, parents, equipment

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