Mini Lacrosse Sticks The Ultimate Guide to Fiddlesticks and Lacrosse Sets for BeginnersMini Lacrosse Sticks The Ultimate Guide to Fiddlesticks and Lacrosse Sets for Beginners
The Benefits of Starting With a Mini Lacrosse Stick
Picking up a lacrosse stick for the first time can be an intimidating experience, especially for young players. Full-sized lacrosse sticks are long and cumbersome, making ball control and stick handling difficult for beginners. This is where mini lacrosse sticks, also known as “fiddlesticks,” come in handy. Mini lacrosse sticks are miniature versions of regulation lacrosse sticks, with shafts typically between 20-30 inches and small lacrosse heads. Using a mini stick when first learning lacrosse provides a range of benefits that can set players up for success.
One of the biggest advantages of starting out with a mini lacrosse stick is that it allows for better stick control and handling. With a shorter shaft and smaller head, young players can more easily cradle, catch, pass, and scoop balls. The mini stick’s lighter weight and compact size make it easier to maneuver quickly and with precision. Players can focus more on developing proper form and technique, rather than struggling with an overly large stick. As hand-eye coordination and motor skills improve, players will gain confidence with the basics of stick handling using their mini lacrosse stick.
In addition to stick skills, mini lacrosse sticks enable beginners to learn key fundamentals of the sport like ball possession, field vision, and footwork. Since the mini stick is less cumbersome, players can keep their heads up to survey the field while maintaining control of the ball. Quick lateral movements, pivots, and change of direction are also easier to execute. As players become more comfortable with their footwork and awareness, they’ll be prepared to apply those skills with a full-sized stick. Starting out slowly with a mini lacrosse stick lays the groundwork for developing into well-rounded lacrosse athletes.
Lastly, mini lacrosse sticks are a safer way for young children to be introduced to lacrosse. Full-sized sticks with long shafts and large heads can lead to greater injury risk with frequent uncontrolled swinging motions. Mini sticks with their compact size reduce uncontrolled movements and allow for close-control development. Kids are able to participate without fear of being accidentally struck by wild stick movements. The mini stick’s design gives children increased safety and confidence as they try lacrosse for the first time.
In summary, mini lacrosse sticks provide the perfect entry point into the sport for beginning youth players. The smaller size allows for greater control, quicker development of fundamentals, and increased safety. Starting out slowly with a mini stick sets up young athletes for success when eventually transitioning to full-sized lacrosse sticks. Coaches and parents should strongly consider mini lacrosse sticks as an ideal way to introduce their kids to the fast-paced game of lacrosse.
Ideal Age to Start Using a Mini Lacrosse Stick
Lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-intensity sport that requires players to have strong fundamental stick skills. This begs the question – when is the ideal age for kids to start developing their talents with a mini lacrosse stick? While there is no definitive age, experts agree that beginning around ages 5-7 with a mini stick can set young athletes up for success.
Starting lacrosse at a very young age around 3-4 years old can be counterproductive. At this stage, kids lack the hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and overall maturity to handle a mini stick properly. Instead, unstructured free play and exploring different sports is recommended to build athleticism. Around age 5 is when kids start developing the coordination and cognitive ability to follow instructions and retain technical skills. At this age, structured lacrosse training with a mini stick can begin.
Ages 6-8 are considered an optimal time to introduce mini lacrosse sticks. During this period, motor skills are rapidly improving and kids are able to grasp and retain new information. Hand-eye coordination is becoming more refined to track and control the ball. Starting lacrosse training at this age with a mini stick enables repetition of proper cradling, scooping, catching, and passing technique. With their mini stick, kids can smoothly transition from two-handed play to eventually using one hand.
Another key advantage of starting mini lacrosse sticks around 6-8 years old is body size. At this age, kids are on the smaller side and closer in height to the 20-30 inch mini stick shaft. This allows them to more naturally control the mini stick for optimal performance. A full-sized 40-60 inch lacrosse shaft would be cumbersome and awkward. The mini stick’s compact size is a perfect match for a young player’s developing coordination and smaller frame.
While 5-8 years old is ideal, mini sticks can still be beneficial at older ages like 9-10 for brand new players. At these ages, kids are entering a crucial skill development stage ahead of more competitive youth league play. Taking the time to focus on stick fundamentals with a mini stick gives them a strong base. No matter if a kid is completely new to lacrosse or has a few years experience, mini sticks accelerate skill progression.
In summary, ages 6-8 represent the “sweet spot” for maximizing development with a mini lacrosse stick. This period aligns with rapid coordination improvements and ability to retain technical skills. But mini sticks can be introduced even earlier or later with success. The key is ensuring kids have the maturity to focus on structured stick skill training. With proper coaching, mini lacrosse sticks give young athletes an edge as they embark on their lacrosse journeys.
Top Fiddlestick Lacrosse Sets for Beginners
When looking to purchase your child’s first mini lacrosse stick, lacrosse sets that include a fiddlestick along with balls and other accessories can be a great value. Lacrosse sets provide everything your young athlete needs to start developing their skills. Here are some of the top complete fiddlestick lacrosse sets to consider for beginners.
The Mongo Lacrosse Fiddlestick Set is an excellent starter set that includes a lightweight aluminum mini stick, 6 soft lacrosse balls, and a carrying bag. The 31″ Mongo mini stick has a strung head designed to enhance ball control, while the soft balls reduce sting for new players. The carrying bag makes it easy to transport the set to practices or games. Mongo is one of the leading brands when it comes to fiddlesticks and mini lacrosse sticks.
For the youngest players ages 5 and under, the Franklin Sports Mini Lacrosse Set is ideal. Along with the mini stick, it includes 4 soft foam balls and a pop-up goal for backyard practice. The 24″ mini stick shaft and small head are perfectly sized for little hands. The soft foam balls are gentle on hands and the portable fold-up goal encourages shooting practice anywhere.
Players looking for a mini lacrosse stick similar to what the pros use will appreciate the STX Mini Super Power Fiddlestick Set. This set comes with a strung mini stick modeled after STX’s high-end men’s lacrosse heads for optimal ball control. Also included are 5 soft STX lacrosse balls, a shooting target, and an athletic carry bag. STX is renowned for their innovative lacrosse gear designed for elite-level play.
For goalies, the Rage Lacrosse Goalie Fiddlestick Set has everything needed to get started. The set includes their signature goalie mini stick, chest protector, 5 soft balls, and a ball stop net. The 29″ goalie fiddlestick features a deep pocket to make saves easier for beginners. The chest protector provides protection while allowing mobility. This set is designed to get young goalies up and running.
Lastly, GoSports Mini Lacrosse Stick Sets offer the complete package with a mini stick, lacrosse balls, nets, and goal frames. With different age-specific sets, players can find the perfect starter kit. These sets promote skill development with their mini lacrosse sticks and provide plenty of practice accessories for honing techniques.
When sourcing that first mini lacrosse stick, don’t just buy the stick by itself. Look for value-packed fiddlestick lacrosse sets that also provide balls, targets, bags and other essentials. Sets from top brands like Mongo, Franklin Sports, STX, Rage Lacrosse and GoSports equip beginners with everything they require to excel.
What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lacrosse Set
- Cradling
- Catching
- Passing
- Scooping ground balls
The lighter weight and compact size of mini sticks make them easier to maneuver quickly and precisely. This allows players to focus on developing proper form and technique rather than struggling with an unwieldy full-sized stick.
Developing Key Lacrosse Fundamentals
Mini lacrosse sticks enable beginners to learn crucial aspects of the sport beyond basic stick skills. How do fiddlesticks contribute to overall lacrosse development? They allow players to focus on:
- Ball possession
- Field vision
- Footwork
The manageable size of mini sticks allows players to keep their heads up and survey the field while maintaining ball control. This improved awareness translates directly to better performance when eventually transitioning to full-sized sticks.
Ideal Age to Introduce Mini Lacrosse Sticks
Determining the right age to start using a mini lacrosse stick is crucial for a young player’s development. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, experts generally agree on an optimal age range.
The Sweet Spot: Ages 5-8
When should children ideally begin their lacrosse journey with a mini stick? The consensus among coaches and youth sports experts points to ages 5-8 as the prime time to introduce fiddlesticks. This age range offers several advantages:
- Improved hand-eye coordination
- Better motor skills
- Increased ability to follow instructions
- Enhanced retention of technical skills
Starting lacrosse training at this age with a mini stick allows for repeated practice of proper technique in cradling, scooping, catching, and passing. The transition from two-handed play to one-handed control also becomes smoother during this developmental period.
Body Size Considerations
Another factor favoring the 5-8 age range for mini lacrosse sticks is body size. Children at this age are typically closer in height to the 20-30 inch mini stick shaft, allowing for more natural control and optimal performance. A full-sized 40-60 inch lacrosse shaft would be unwieldy and difficult to manage for most young players in this age group.
Safety Benefits of Mini Lacrosse Sticks
Safety is a paramount concern when introducing young children to any sport, and lacrosse is no exception. Mini lacrosse sticks offer significant safety advantages over their full-sized counterparts.
Reduced Injury Risk
How do mini lacrosse sticks enhance safety for young players? The compact size of fiddlesticks leads to several safety benefits:
- Decreased risk of uncontrolled swinging motions
- Lower chance of accidental strikes
- Improved close-control development
The smaller size of mini sticks allows children to participate in lacrosse activities without fear of being accidentally struck by wild stick movements. This increased safety translates to greater confidence as young players try lacrosse for the first time.
Transitioning from Mini Sticks to Full-Sized Lacrosse Equipment
While mini lacrosse sticks provide an excellent starting point, players will eventually need to transition to regulation-sized equipment. Understanding when and how to make this switch is crucial for continued development in the sport.
Timing the Transition
When should players move from mini sticks to full-sized lacrosse sticks? The ideal timing varies based on individual development, but consider these factors:
- Physical growth and strength
- Mastery of basic skills with the mini stick
- Comfort level with the game’s fundamentals
- Age-based league requirements
Many players begin transitioning around ages 8-10, but this can vary. The key is to ensure the player has a solid foundation of skills before making the switch.
Gradual Progression
To ease the transition, consider a gradual progression in stick size. Some options include:
- Slightly longer mini sticks (30-36 inches)
- Youth-sized sticks (36-42 inches)
- Full-sized sticks with lighter materials
This step-by-step approach allows players to adjust to larger equipment while maintaining proper form and technique.
Choosing the Right Mini Lacrosse Stick
Selecting the appropriate mini lacrosse stick is crucial for a beginner’s success and enjoyment of the sport. With numerous options available, it’s important to consider several factors when making a purchase.
Key Features to Consider
What should you look for when choosing a mini lacrosse stick? Keep these features in mind:
- Stick length (typically 20-30 inches)
- Head size and shape
- Material quality (shaft and head)
- Weight and balance
- Grip comfort
The ideal mini stick should feel comfortable and manageable for the young player while still offering durability and performance.
Popular Mini Lacrosse Stick Brands
Several reputable brands offer quality mini lacrosse sticks for beginners. Some top options include:
- STX
- Brine
- Warrior
- StringKing
- ECD (East Coast Dyes)
Research and read reviews of different models within these brands to find the best fit for your young player’s needs and skill level.
Incorporating Mini Lacrosse Sticks into Practice Routines
Once you’ve acquired a mini lacrosse stick, it’s essential to use it effectively in practice sessions. Structured training with fiddlesticks can accelerate skill development and prepare players for future success in the sport.
Fundamental Drills for Beginners
What are some effective drills for practicing with mini lacrosse sticks? Try incorporating these exercises into your training routine:
- Wall ball: Throwing and catching against a wall to improve hand-eye coordination
- Cradling races: Practicing proper cradling technique while moving
- Ground ball pickups: Developing the crucial skill of scooping loose balls
- Partner passing: Working on accurate throws and catches with a teammate
- Obstacle courses: Combining multiple skills in a fun, challenging format
Remember to focus on proper technique and form rather than speed or power when first introducing these drills.
Balancing Structured Practice and Free Play
While organized drills are important, it’s equally crucial to allow time for unstructured play with mini lacrosse sticks. This free play enables young players to:
- Experiment with different techniques
- Develop creativity and problem-solving skills
- Foster a love for the game through enjoyable, low-pressure activities
Aim for a balance between structured practice and free play to maximize skill development and maintain enthusiasm for the sport.
The Role of Parents and Coaches in Mini Lacrosse Development
Parents and coaches play a crucial role in guiding young players as they begin their lacrosse journey with mini sticks. Understanding how to support and encourage beginners can make a significant difference in their long-term success and enjoyment of the sport.
Creating a Positive Learning Environment
How can adults foster an environment conducive to learning and growth in youth lacrosse? Consider these strategies:
- Emphasize effort and improvement over results
- Provide specific, constructive feedback
- Encourage risk-taking and learning from mistakes
- Celebrate small victories and milestones
- Model good sportsmanship and respect for the game
By creating a supportive atmosphere, adults can help young players develop confidence and a passion for lacrosse that extends far beyond their mini stick days.
Balancing Lacrosse with Other Activities
While dedication to lacrosse is admirable, it’s important to maintain a balanced approach to youth sports and activities. Parents and coaches should:
- Encourage participation in multiple sports
- Allow time for non-sports activities and interests
- Be mindful of signs of burnout or overtraining
- Prioritize academics and family time
This holistic approach to youth development can lead to well-rounded athletes who are more likely to stick with lacrosse long-term.
Mini lacrosse sticks offer an excellent entry point into the sport for young players. By providing enhanced control, safety, and skill development opportunities, fiddlesticks set the stage for future success on the lacrosse field. As parents, coaches, and players navigate the early stages of lacrosse participation, keeping these guidelines in mind can help ensure a positive and rewarding experience for all involved.
The Benefits of Starting With a Mini Lacrosse Stick
Picking up a lacrosse stick for the first time can be an intimidating experience, especially for young players. Full-sized lacrosse sticks are long and cumbersome, making ball control and stick handling difficult for beginners. This is where mini lacrosse sticks, also known as “fiddlesticks,” come in handy. Mini lacrosse sticks are miniature versions of regulation lacrosse sticks, with shafts typically between 20-30 inches and small lacrosse heads. Using a mini stick when first learning lacrosse provides a range of benefits that can set players up for success.
One of the biggest advantages of starting out with a mini lacrosse stick is that it allows for better stick control and handling. With a shorter shaft and smaller head, young players can more easily cradle, catch, pass, and scoop balls. The mini stick’s lighter weight and compact size make it easier to maneuver quickly and with precision. Players can focus more on developing proper form and technique, rather than struggling with an overly large stick. As hand-eye coordination and motor skills improve, players will gain confidence with the basics of stick handling using their mini lacrosse stick.
In addition to stick skills, mini lacrosse sticks enable beginners to learn key fundamentals of the sport like ball possession, field vision, and footwork. Since the mini stick is less cumbersome, players can keep their heads up to survey the field while maintaining control of the ball. Quick lateral movements, pivots, and change of direction are also easier to execute. As players become more comfortable with their footwork and awareness, they’ll be prepared to apply those skills with a full-sized stick. Starting out slowly with a mini lacrosse stick lays the groundwork for developing into well-rounded lacrosse athletes.
Lastly, mini lacrosse sticks are a safer way for young children to be introduced to lacrosse. Full-sized sticks with long shafts and large heads can lead to greater injury risk with frequent uncontrolled swinging motions. Mini sticks with their compact size reduce uncontrolled movements and allow for close-control development. Kids are able to participate without fear of being accidentally struck by wild stick movements. The mini stick’s design gives children increased safety and confidence as they try lacrosse for the first time.
In summary, mini lacrosse sticks provide the perfect entry point into the sport for beginning youth players. The smaller size allows for greater control, quicker development of fundamentals, and increased safety. Starting out slowly with a mini stick sets up young athletes for success when eventually transitioning to full-sized lacrosse sticks. Coaches and parents should strongly consider mini lacrosse sticks as an ideal way to introduce their kids to the fast-paced game of lacrosse.
Ideal Age to Start Using a Mini Lacrosse Stick
Lacrosse is a fast-paced, high-intensity sport that requires players to have strong fundamental stick skills. This begs the question – when is the ideal age for kids to start developing their talents with a mini lacrosse stick? While there is no definitive age, experts agree that beginning around ages 5-7 with a mini stick can set young athletes up for success.
Starting lacrosse at a very young age around 3-4 years old can be counterproductive. At this stage, kids lack the hand-eye coordination, motor skills, and overall maturity to handle a mini stick properly. Instead, unstructured free play and exploring different sports is recommended to build athleticism. Around age 5 is when kids start developing the coordination and cognitive ability to follow instructions and retain technical skills. At this age, structured lacrosse training with a mini stick can begin.
Ages 6-8 are considered an optimal time to introduce mini lacrosse sticks. During this period, motor skills are rapidly improving and kids are able to grasp and retain new information. Hand-eye coordination is becoming more refined to track and control the ball. Starting lacrosse training at this age with a mini stick enables repetition of proper cradling, scooping, catching, and passing technique. With their mini stick, kids can smoothly transition from two-handed play to eventually using one hand.
Another key advantage of starting mini lacrosse sticks around 6-8 years old is body size. At this age, kids are on the smaller side and closer in height to the 20-30 inch mini stick shaft. This allows them to more naturally control the mini stick for optimal performance. A full-sized 40-60 inch lacrosse shaft would be cumbersome and awkward. The mini stick’s compact size is a perfect match for a young player’s developing coordination and smaller frame.
While 5-8 years old is ideal, mini sticks can still be beneficial at older ages like 9-10 for brand new players. At these ages, kids are entering a crucial skill development stage ahead of more competitive youth league play. Taking the time to focus on stick fundamentals with a mini stick gives them a strong base. No matter if a kid is completely new to lacrosse or has a few years experience, mini sticks accelerate skill progression.
In summary, ages 6-8 represent the “sweet spot” for maximizing development with a mini lacrosse stick. This period aligns with rapid coordination improvements and ability to retain technical skills. But mini sticks can be introduced even earlier or later with success. The key is ensuring kids have the maturity to focus on structured stick skill training. With proper coaching, mini lacrosse sticks give young athletes an edge as they embark on their lacrosse journeys.
Top Fiddlestick Lacrosse Sets for Beginners
When looking to purchase your child’s first mini lacrosse stick, lacrosse sets that include a fiddlestick along with balls and other accessories can be a great value. Lacrosse sets provide everything your young athlete needs to start developing their skills. Here are some of the top complete fiddlestick lacrosse sets to consider for beginners.
The Mongo Lacrosse Fiddlestick Set is an excellent starter set that includes a lightweight aluminum mini stick, 6 soft lacrosse balls, and a carrying bag. The 31″ Mongo mini stick has a strung head designed to enhance ball control, while the soft balls reduce sting for new players. The carrying bag makes it easy to transport the set to practices or games. Mongo is one of the leading brands when it comes to fiddlesticks and mini lacrosse sticks.
For the youngest players ages 5 and under, the Franklin Sports Mini Lacrosse Set is ideal. Along with the mini stick, it includes 4 soft foam balls and a pop-up goal for backyard practice. The 24″ mini stick shaft and small head are perfectly sized for little hands. The soft foam balls are gentle on hands and the portable fold-up goal encourages shooting practice anywhere.
Players looking for a mini lacrosse stick similar to what the pros use will appreciate the STX Mini Super Power Fiddlestick Set. This set comes with a strung mini stick modeled after STX’s high-end men’s lacrosse heads for optimal ball control. Also included are 5 soft STX lacrosse balls, a shooting target, and an athletic carry bag. STX is renowned for their innovative lacrosse gear designed for elite-level play.
For goalies, the Rage Lacrosse Goalie Fiddlestick Set has everything needed to get started. The set includes their signature goalie mini stick, chest protector, 5 soft balls, and a ball stop net. The 29″ goalie fiddlestick features a deep pocket to make saves easier for beginners. The chest protector provides protection while allowing mobility. This set is designed to get young goalies up and running.
Lastly, GoSports Mini Lacrosse Stick Sets offer the complete package with a mini stick, lacrosse balls, nets, and goal frames. With different age-specific sets, players can find the perfect starter kit. These sets promote skill development with their mini lacrosse sticks and provide plenty of practice accessories for honing techniques.
When sourcing that first mini lacrosse stick, don’t just buy the stick by itself. Look for value-packed fiddlestick lacrosse sets that also provide balls, targets, bags and other essentials. Sets from top brands like Mongo, Franklin Sports, STX, Rage Lacrosse and GoSports equip beginners with everything they require to excel.
What to Look for When Buying a Mini Lacrosse Set
Purchasing a mini lacrosse set is an exciting first step on your child’s lacrosse journey. With so many options out there, it can be tricky to determine what to look for in a quality mini lacrosse set. Here are the key features to consider when selecting the right starter set for your young athlete.
First and foremost, examine the mini stick itself. Look for a durable yet lightweight shaft in the 20-30 inch range made of materials like aluminum or composite. Mini heads with a narrower profile and pre-strung with nylon laces are ideal for superior ball control. The head’s sidewalls should have sturdy construction but some flex to cradle shots. For goalies, larger heads with deeper pockets help snag saves. Your mini stick is the foundation of early development, so get one sized right for your child with great craftsmanship.
Lacrosse balls are the next item to inspect. For maximum safety, opt for soft or foam balls to reduce impact on hands and body checks. Firm rubber lacrosse balls can be introduced later as skills improve. Softer balls also encourage proper cradling technique versus hard balls that easily dislodge. Pick a set with at least 4-6 balls to keep play continuous without constant retrieving.
Supplementary accessories can provide helpful training benefits. Carrying bags let kids transport gear easily. Shooting targets like nets or goal frames give aiming practice. Protective equipment like chest pads builds goalie confidence. If included in sets, ensure these accessories are made well to withstand outdoor use and impact. Portability and durability will maximize their usefulness.
When looking at full mini lacrosse sets, examine the quality and design of all included components. Piecing gear together can create inconsistencies, so packaged sets allow everything to work seamlessly together right away. Reputable lacrosse brands often offer the best-designed sets optimized for new players.
Lastly, consider how long your mini lacrosse set will last over potential growth spurts. Multi-size shafts with extendable lengths accommodate progression to full sticks later on. Durable bags and accessories outlast beginner play. While mini sticks excellently develop fundamentals, you want gear that transitions smoothly towards full lacrosse participation down the road.
Finding the best mini lacrosse set involves carefully inspecting the stick, balls, accessories, and overall quality. Keeping your child’s size, safety, and progress in mind while sticking with trusted brands results in a set that builds skills for a lifetime of lacrosse fun.
Proper Technique and Form When Using a Fiddle Stick
One of the biggest advantages of starting young players off with a mini lacrosse stick or fiddlestick is the opportunity to develop proper technique from the beginning. Without bad habits already ingrained from full-sized sticks, kids can build an excellent foundation of skill and form.
Holding a fiddlestick correctly establishes proper hand and arm placement for optimal control. With two hands, the lead hand grips at the very bottom of the shaft near the head. The support hand slides comfortably below it on the shaft. Gripping too close together or spread too far apart diminishes control. Proper hand positioning maximizes leverage and maneuverability.
Locking in correct cradling technique is crucial. Cradling involves rolling the shaft side to side in a smooth, continuous motion to maintain possession of the ball in the pocket. Beginners should cradle slowly with their hands apart to emphasize the needed arm motion. As handling improves, one-handed cradling can be introduced by transferring the cradling movement to the lead hand and removing the support hand.
Mastering scooping ground balls takes repetition with a mini stick. The stick should forming a ramp down to the ground, lead hand out front. As the ball is raked up, the fiddlestick head turns over and cradling engages seamlessly to secure possession. Scooping needs quick footwork and hand-eye coordination best built slowly with a mini stick’s compact size.
Passing requires stepping towards the target, rotating hips and shoulders for power while pushing with the bottom hand and pulling with the top hand. Following through pointing at the target and stepping through the pass enhances accuracy. Mini stick passes won’t travel far initially but lay the groundwork for form.
Shooting uses the same hip/shoulder rotation and push/pull technique focusing on driving through the ball towards the goal. Fiddlesticks teach proper shooting mechanics by forcing young players to fully extend and follow through due to limited power. Developing precision shooting now elevates scoring abilities down the road.
By starting early with a mini lacrosse stick, players can cement proper technique from day one. The fundamentals learned with a fiddlestick will directly translate to full-sized lacrosse mastery.
Drills and Exercises to Practice with a Mini Lacrosse Stick
Once young athletes have a good grasp of basic mini lacrosse stick technique, drills and exercises can accelerate skill development. Practicing key fundamentals through repetitive actions ingrains muscle memory and stick handling abilities. Here are some great mini lacrosse stick drills to incorporate into training.
Figure 8s help reinforce proper cradling motions by continually changing the angle of the head. Players roll the mini stick head in a smooth figure 8 pattern around their body, emphasizing sweeping top hand motions. Start with slow controlled figure 8s using two hands, then progress to quicker one-handed changing directions.
Catching and tossing tennis balls improves hand-eye coordination essential for mini lacrosse success. Have players gently toss a tennis ball up and catch it within their mini stick head pocket. Mix in catching tosses from a coach or teammate. Repetition develops quick reflexes and soft hands.
Agility ladder drills build footwork for dodging and creating space. Hopping through ladder rungs while cradling sharpens balance and coordination. Add in side shuffles or crossover steps to work on change of direction. Developing agility with a mini stick translates directly to the field.
Rapid fire passing back and forth with a partner hones accuracy through repetition. Set up 5-10 yards apart and pass back and forth as quickly as possible. Focus on technique by stepping into passes using proper mechanics. Quick passing improves reactions and ball control.
Shooting lots of shots on goal or targets boosts scoring skills. Challenge players to hit certain quadrants of the goal with pinpoint accuracy. Alternate different shooting motions like overhand, sidearm or underhand. High volume shooting builds touch and finishing ability.
Dedicated mini lacrosse stick training provides huge dividends for young players. Drilling key techniques, footwork, hand-eye coordination and passing/shooting efficiency sets a strong foundation. Consistently honing skills through fun exercises generates rapid improvements.
Transitioning from a Fiddlestick to a Full Lacrosse Stick
As young athletes improve their abilities with a mini lacrosse stick or fiddlestick, the time will eventually come to move up to a full-sized lacrosse stick. While an exciting milestone, the transition does require some adjustment to the longer shaft and larger head. Here are tips for making the switch from a fiddlestick to full stick smooth and successful.
First, don’t rush the transition before kids demonstrate solid mastery of fundamentals with their mini stick. Confidently scooping, cradling, passing and catching shows readiness to size up. The mini stick proficiency provides the skills to handle the heightened challenge.
When sizing up stick length, a good rule of thumb is choosing a shaft so the head reaches between the child’s nose and mouth. This allows enough length for two-handed play but not too long to hamper control. Stick materials like composite or titanium are lightweight for easier handling.
Look for novice lacrosse head designs with a narrower profile, similar to their mini stick head. While not as pinched as a mini head, more streamlined full heads suit developing players better than wide heads with big offset. Focus on consistency with what they’re accustomed to.
Use lighter lacrosse balls like soft balls at first for more touch on cradling, catching and scooping. Heavier hard lacrosse balls can be worked up to as kids get comfortable. New full shafts and heads take adjustment, so keep balls soft initially.
Emphasize body positioning and movement as increased stick size requires compensation. Bending knees to get down for ground balls, rotating hips and shoulders for passing/shooting and carrying the stick upright maintains control. Refine positioning through drills.
The most important tip is to be patient! Allow plenty of practice time to adapt hand-eye coordination to the bigger stick. Don’t get frustrated – stay positive and keep reinforcing proper technique. Build back up slowly and a full lacrosse stick will soon feel natural.
With a thoughtful transition focused on fundamentals, sizing up from a mini lacrosse stick to full stick goes smoothly. The skills learned with their trusty fiddlestick pay huge dividends as kids step up their lacrosse game.
Common Mini Lacrosse Stick Brands and Models
When shopping for your child’s first mini lacrosse stick, it helps to be familiar with the top brands making these specialty sticks for beginners. Trusted manufacturers produce mini lacrosse sticks with optimal materials, construction and designs to accelerate development.
One of the leading mini lacrosse brands is Mongo Lacrosse, who revolutionized the concept of scaled down sticks for young players. Their innovative Mongo Mini stick has a durable aluminum alloy shaft and laced head modeled after pro lacrosse sticks for incredible ball control. Mongo also makes mini goalie sticks, multi-sport sticks and cadet sticks for easy sizing progression.
STX offers their popular Mini Super Power stick which mimics the pinched high-performance head shape of their men’s lacrosse gear. The Super Power promotes excellent feel for carrying and passing. STX pairs it with an anodized aluminum shaft and their Stallion scandal for optimum performance. Expect elite quality gear from this top lacrosse company.
Franklin Sports produces the Franklin Mini Lacrosse Stick perfect for kids under 10. With an ABS plastic head and alloy shaft, it has solid construction with a forgiving design for new players. Franklin also packages complete sets with balls, goals and bags for ideal beginner value. They specialize in sports equipment for young athletes.
Rage Lacrosse makes the Cadet Mini focused on durability and ball control. The nylon head has a precise pocket and the shaft flexes to help absorb checks. Rage also produces the Goalie Fiddlestick with a deep pocket designed to improve early goalie skills. Their sticks hold up well even under aggressive mini lax play.
Brine, Warrior, Maverik and Nike also have mini and cadet size sticks tailored for developing players age 8 and under. Major sporting goods brands offer quality materials and performance features adapted from their top lacrosse lines. Progressive sizing sticks help bridge the gap to full models.
With so many respected companies now producing mini lacrosse sticks, it’s easy to find an option perfect for your young athlete. Seek out purpose-built short shaft sticks from the leading lacrosse brands to launch your child’s game in the right direction.
Customizing and Stringing Mini Lacrosse Heads
One of the great aspects of mini lacrosse sticks is the ability to customize them to match your child’s preferences. While mini heads come pre-strung from manufacturers, players can optionally restring pockets to their specific liking for optimum ball control and feel.
Custom stringing a mini head involves selecting the lace materials, pocket style, and stringing pattern. Mini heads use the same materials as full sticks like nylon, leather or mesh laces. Nylon laces provide a nice mix of softness for improved ball handling and durability to withstand beginner play. Leather laces increase grip and hold while mesh forms quicker pocket break in.
Pocket style comes down to player position and needs. Middies tend to like mid-to-high pockets for carrying the ball on longer runs upfield whileattackmen prefer lower pockets for quicker passing and shots on goal. Midfield pockets with a moderate mid pocket are a nice all-around option for versatility. Consider how you child will use their mini stick when picking pocket height.
Stringing patterns impact pocket shape and performance. Beginners may want to stick with basic traditional lacing starting with a single straight runner and simple crisscross sidewall stringing. More complex mesh patterns, multiple runners, and stringing tricks can be explored as skills progress. Focus on fundamental pocket types first before elaborate string jobs.
When stringing mini heads, make sure to follow the same stringing rules and limits as full lacrosse heads. The pocket depth, shooting strings height, and sidewall hole counts must adhere to official youth lacrosse league rules. Teaching proper stringing from the start ensures mini sticks align with regulations.
While pre-strung mini heads work great out of the box, custom stringing allows young players to take ownership of their stick. With coach supervision, stringing their own pocket teaches proper techniques and rules. Start simple initially and get creative stringing mini heads as your child’s abilities advance.
Goalie Fiddle Sticks vs Field Fiddle Sticks
When selecting a mini lacrosse stick, players need to choose between sticks designed specifically for goalies versus field players. While all mini sticks help develop fundamentals, goalie and field fiddlesticks have key differences to align with their distinct roles.
The main variation is head and pocket design. Goalie mini heads are larger with an extra deep pocket to improve catching and trapping incoming shots. The deeper pocket helps control and contain shots rather than deflecting balls. Field mini heads in contrast have more pinched heads with mid-level pockets optimized for carrying, cradling and passing upfield.
Shaft length is another difference. Goalie fiddlesticks have shorter shafts usually in the 24-28 inch range allowing goalies to protect more net coverage while maneuvering in tight quarters. Field mini sticks are typically a little longer around 26-32 inches for longer reaches on ground balls, checks and shots.
Goalie mini stick materials also favor durability to withstand high-velocity shots. Sturdy plastic or polymer heads paired with solid composite or aluminum shafts equip goalies to make saves without fear of stick breaking. Field mini sticks prioritize lightweight handling for offensive playmaking.
When playing defense, field players would use their field fiddlestick for protecting their goal with checks, positioning and shot blocks. Only designated goalies with proper protective gear should use goalie mini sticks due to the extremely deep pocket and specialized durable construction.
For training all-around lacrosse skills, field mini sticks work well for any beginner. But aspiring young goalies benefit most from starting out with a goalie-specific fiddlestick tailored to developing their unique techniques like anchoring the goal, moving laterally, and absorbing shots safely.
Safety Considerations When Using Mini Lacrosse Sticks
While mini lacrosse sticks offer many benefits for young athletes, coaches and parents need to keep safety at the forefront. Taking proper precautions and emphasizing control minimizes injury risks and ensures kids have fun and learn with their mini sticks.
Stress no stick swinging or uncontrolled checking with mini sticks. Require cradling with both hands to start until players exhibit excellent stick control. Strictly enforce no stick-on-stick or body contact until kids display responsible use. Excessive loose swinging often leads to inadvertent injuries.
Ensure full protective gear like helmets, gloves, pads and mouthguards during any mini lacrosse game action. New players need protection while focusing on stick work versus being leery of checks. Mandate a complete protective setup for full participation and confidence.
Only use soft lacrosse balls or foam balls with mini sticks to limit impact. Hard regulation balls can really sting hands and bodies when mishandled by inexperienced kids. Softer balls teach handling while preventing flinching from painful misplays.
Avoid any stick use around younger siblings, especially unsupervised play. Set parameters like only using mini sticks in the backyard or playroom with an adult overseeing. Unsafe experimenting often occurs when little kids imitate older players without guidance.
When transitioning to full sticks, carefully assess proper length to prevent uncontrolled movements and errant checks from overly long sticks. Gradually introduce full contact only after competent stick skills and spatial awareness develop. Patience prevents injuries when moving to full lacrosse.
With smart precautions, mini lacrosse sticks can be integrated safely to build abilities. Starting disciplined stick habits and emphasizing control forms good behaviors. Coaches and parents play a key role in maintaining safety while allowing kids to harness mini sticks’ benefits.
Storing and Maintaining Mini Lacrosse Sticks
Taking proper care of mini lacrosse sticks ensures they last through years of developing young players’ skills. Following some simple storage and maintenance best practices keeps mini sticks in top playing condition.
When not in use, mini lacrosse sticks should be stored upright resting on their heads. Laying sticks horizontally can cause heads to warp and pockets to stretch over time. Standing sticks upright maintains optimal pocket shape and head stiffness critical for ball control.
Avoid leaving mini sticks outside exposed to sun and rain. UV rays and moisture damage lacrosse stick materials. Inside storage like a garage wall rack or closet rod keeps mini sticks protected. Carrying cases also shield sticks when transporting to and from practices.
Check mini stick heads and sidewalls periodically for cracks forming in the plastic. Beginner players often whack sticks on ground inadvertently during play. Tiny cracks can expand and destroy a stick’s structural integrity. Early detection allows for preemptive head replacement.
Clean mini stick pocket laces with warm water and mild detergent to remove built up dirt and debris. Gently rub the pocket area and rinse thoroughly with fresh water. Let the stick dry completely before playing to prevent moisture damage. Keeping pocket areas debris-free maintains ball control.
Re-tighten and adjust mini stick screws that can loosen over time especially on composite or alloy shafts. Loose screws severely compromise stability and playability. Periodically check screws and tighten firmly with a screwdriver.
With basic care like upright storage, weather protection, damage inspections, cleaning and hardware adjustments, mini lacrosse sticks enjoy long productive lives. Simple maintenance keeps them playing like new as kids develop their skills season after season.
The Future of Mini Lacrosse Sticks and Growth of the Sport
The rising popularity of mini lacrosse sticks represents an exciting new frontier driving growth of the sport among young athletes. Continued innovation around scaled-down lacrosse equipment coupled with expanding youth participation lays the foundation for a bright future.
Companies have only scratched the surface designing mini sticks. Expect breakthroughs like adjustable length shafts, interchangeable heads, integrated sensor analytics and ultra-durable space-age materials. Newfangled mini sticks will push skill development further. Creative accessories and training tools will also emerge aimed at capitalizing on mini sticks’ advantages.
This growth in mini lacrosse gear will support rising participation. Over the last decade, youth lacrosse has ballooned over 150% to around 800,000 kids playing nationwide. Introducing the sport at an earlier age through quality mini sticks feeds this booming participation. The opportunity abounds for more kids to discover lacrosse.
Earlier adoption and enhanced training efficiency with mini sticks will translate to elevated on-field product. Athletes harnessing mini lacrosse early on can realize their potential sooner. The skills honed through modern mini lacrosse equipment will drive the sport’s evolution to even faster, fluid and exciting play.
For coaches, mini sticks provide a tool to simplify and accelerate instruction. Sharing perspectives and techniques will create improved best practices for mini lacrosse implementation. Ultimately, kids win through access to better training and enhanced enjoyment growing with the sport.
Lacrosse’s future shines bright in no small part to growth at the youngest levels sparked by mini sticks. Their possibilities to advance the sport have only begun to be unlocked. It is an enthralling time for mini lacrosse as more kids discover and excel in the fast-paced game.
Recommendations for the Best Fiddlesticks Lacrosse Sets
For parents and coaches seeking the ideal mini lacrosse stick sets to get beginners started, certain products stand out for quality and value. Based on materials, performance and accessories, here are some top recommendations for complete fiddlestick lacrosse sets.
The Mongo Mini Lacrosse Set provides an unbeatable starter package. The lightweight Mongo mini stick excels at developing fundamentals with great durability. Combined with 5 soft rubber balls, an instructional DVD, and mesh carrying bag, this set has everything needed for success.
Franklin Sports makes an excellent Mini Lacrosse Set for ages 5-8. The mini stick features a durable head and easy grip shaft sized for smaller hands. The set includes soft, safer balls, folding pop-up goals, and carry case perfect for backyard practice. It is an ideal starter set at an affordable price.
For advanced performance, the STX Mini Super Power Set equips players with elite-level gear. The Super Power head mimics advanced men’s design for unreal ball control. Add in 5 STX soft balls, a target goal, and high-quality bag for the complete mini lacrosse package.
Rage Lacrosse’s Cadet Mini Set brings solid value through quality materials and smart accessories. Their mini stick has a sturdy head and flexible shaft built to take checks and abuse. Training cones, soft balls, and equipment bag make this a super play-ready starter bundle.
GoSports Lacrosse Pro Mini Stick Sets check every box for convenience and function. Dependable mini sticks, plenty of soft rubber balls, portable goals, and carrying cases allow for turnkey mini lax practice anytime. These sets have it all covered for rookies.
No matter if shopping on a budget or wanting premium performance, excellent mini lacrosse sets exist to launch your young athlete’s development. With the right fiddlestick and practice accessories, beginners gain skills and fall in love with lacrosse’s fast pace and excitement.